Mariano Machado, Americas principal analyst at Verisk Maplecroft: “Though ostensibly local, Chile’s local elections have profound national implications. Center-right gains hint at an overall political rebalancing. Chile Vamos—the primary opposition coalition—regained a commanding presence in the Metropolitan Region and other regional capitals, including Antofagasta and Punta Arenas. An effective ground game and the emergence of popular figures such as presidential hopeful Evelyn Matthei were key drivers of success. In contrast, the far-right Partido Republicano secured fewer key mayoralties than anticipated, raising concerns about leader José Antonio Kast’s strategy. Amid major scandals, President Gabriel Boric’s left-leaning coalition roughly broke even. Key wins included Tomás Vodanovic’s landslide re-election in Maipú, Chile’s second-most populated commune, and Santiago governor Claudio Orrego’s standout popularity. Both now emerge as crucial figures…”