From Argentina’s libertarian Javier Milei to El Salvador’s authoritarian Nayib Bukele, a spectrum of right‑wing movements is reshaping Latin America’s politics, driven by social media, populist rhetoric and historic grievances.
A Spectrum of Right-Wing Candidates
Latin American countries now offer voters a range of right‑wing options: Javier Milei in Argentina, Nayib Bukele in El Salvador, Daniel Noboa in Ecuador, Santiago Peña in Paraguay, Rodrigo Chaves in Costa Rica, and José Raúl Mulino in Panama.
While some nations already see a right‑leaning government, others await election outcomes. Bolivia is expected to join the group after its presidential second round, and upcoming ballots in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Brazil promise further shifts.
Moderate and Radical Right: Ideological Boundaries
Experts note that most mainstream right parties remain “relatively moderate” and uphold democratic rules, says Sergio Morresi of CONICET and the National University of Litoral, Argentina.
In contrast, the extremist right—often marginal—either exploits or undermines democratic mechanisms. Morresi cites a willingness to support authoritarianism and distrust liberal democracy.
Historical Roots of Extremism
Latin America’s history of brutal dictatorships lends context to the rise of extremism: Salvadoran conflict (c. 75,000 deaths), Argentine military rule (up to 30,000 losses), and Pinochet’s Chile (nearly 30,000 political detainees and 3,000 deaths).
These events create a cultural backdrop where populist and authoritarian narratives can take hold, especially when economic crises and corruption damage faith in traditional parties.
The Surge of Populist Extremists
Jair Bolsonaro, Nayib Bukele, and Javier Milei blend radical and extreme right tactics. Bolsonaro’s media campaign blasted “elites” and defied COVID‑19 measures; Bukele promised a “hard line” against crime, resulting in an 80‑percent electoral victory after arresting over 80,000 people.
Milei governs by decree and veto, leveraging popular enthusiasm while eroding respect for institutional separation.
Social Media as a Mobilizing Tool
Platforms like TikTok and Twitter give the extremist right unprecedented direct access to voters. Besoky notes that youth media consumption has been critical to Milei’s success, while Torres highlights an “army” of Twitter users spreading his message.
These channels distribute simple, emotional content, enabling rapid feedback and swift nation‑wide influence.
Broader Appeal and Future Outlook
Support for the extreme right hovers at roughly 30 percent, appealing to people across the political spectrum who demand decisive change. Morresi points out that the movement draws voters from conventional conservatives, centrist rightists, and even some left‑leaning traditionalists.
Given presidential systems and election formats that reward high‑disapproval incumbents, the chance for new right‑wing leaders to capitalize on public frustration remains high.
