Paloma Valencia

Senator and Democratic Center presidential candidate

Appears in 1 story

Born: January 19, 1978, Popayán

Education: University of the Andes, New York University

Previous offices: member of the Senate of Colombia

Last updated Nov 2, 2026

Stories

Colombia reshuffles Congress and narrows presidential field ahead of May vote

Rule Changes

As of June 2026: Eliminated in first round of May 31 presidential election; Democratic Center remains a significant congressional force

Colombia's 10-month election cycle ended June 21 when conservative lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella defeated leftist senator Iván Cepeda in the presidential runoff, 49.65% to 48.70% — a margin of fewer than 250,000 votes. His 12.9 million votes set a record for any Colombian presidential candidate. He takes office August 7.

Updated Jun 22