The stage is set for a critical moment in Colombian politics as expats in New York cast their votes in the presidential runoff. The election, scheduled for June 21, pits right-wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella against left-wing contender Iván Cepedawith neither having secured a majority in the first round held in May.
Early voting began on June 15 at the Colombian consulate in Manhattan, where hundreds of Colombians turned out to make their voices heard. Among them was César Zuluagaa 62-year-old resident of Manhattan, who proudly wore a black shirt featuring a tiger—a symbol synonymous with de la Espriella’s campaign.
Security and Economic Concerns Drive Voter Turnout
Documented spoke with several Colombian voters in New York to understand the issues driving their decisions. Security and economic opportunities emerged as the top concerns. With an estimated 1.2 million Colombian immigrants living in the United States, according to 2026 data from the Pew Research Centerthe diaspora’s vote is significant. The majority of these immigrants reside in Florida, New York, and New Jersey, with approximately 112,000 in New york state alone.
The runoff represents a final showdown between de la Espriella, a lawyer and businessman who led the first round with 43.7% of the vote, and Cepeda, a senator backed by current President Gustavo Petrowho secured 40.9%. De la Espriella, known as “El Tigre,” has campaigned on a socially conservative platform focusing on security, a smaller government, and economic reforms. These issues, particularly security, have resonated with many voters who view Cepeda as a continuation of Petro’s unfulfilled promise of “Total Peace” through negotiations with armed groups.
The Impact of Violence on Voter Decisions
Zuluaga, who voted with his wife and son, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Colombia. According to the Fundación Ideas para la Pazillegal armed groups have grown by 5,000 members, a 23.5% increase, during Petro’s presidency. “Violence has spiraled out of control in our country,” Zuluaga emphasized. “Four years ago, I didn’t vote. That’s why I’ve come to vote not just today, but also eight days ago, to ensure we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past.”
Economic Policies and Political Experience
However, not all voters share Zuluaga’s perspective. Andrés Péreza 64-year-old visitor from Sincelejo, Colombia, doubts de la Espriella’s genuine concern for the well-being of ordinary Colombians. “El Tigre is for the wealthy,” Pérez stated. “This government will favor the rich, who will exploit the country’s resources and cause environmental damage.” Pérez also criticized de la Espriella’s decade-long residence in the United States and his American citizenship, which has drawn criticism from constitutional experts and progressive sectors.
Pérez and his family support Cepeda, citing Petro’s increase in the minimum wage to 2 million pesos (534 dollars) per month. “Under former President Álvaro Uribe, the minimum wage was just 80,000 pesos, which is insufficient,” Pérez explained. He also expressed concerns about de la Espriella’s legal career, noting his high-profile clients, including Uribe and Alex Saab, the alleged frontman for Venezuela’s ousted President Nicolás Maduro. “He has defended many notorious figures in Colombia, mostly drug traffickers,” Pérez commented. “He lacks political experience; he’s just a lawyer.”
The Appeal of Political Outsiders
Despite these criticisms, some voters see de la Espriella’s lack of political experience as an advantage. Juan Felipe Suáreza 34-year-old resident of Forest Hills, argued that Petro’s three decades in politics have led to economic mismanagement. Suárez acknowledged the positive impact of Petro’s minimum wage increase but noted the lack of support for small businesses through tax reductions. “Large corporations can afford the higher minimum wage, but small businesses, like shops and restaurants, struggle to meet these costs,” he said.
Suárez also highlighted the potential benefits of de la Espriella’s ties to former U.S. President Trumpwhich could foster a strong economic relationship between Colombia and the United States. “Colombia is a developing country, and a good relationship with the U.S., especially under Trump’s trade policies, would be beneficial,” Suárez explained.
Looking Ahead to Election Day
As the election day approaches, Colombians in New York are hopeful for a positive outcome. Zuluaga expressed his excitement for a potential double celebration: Colombia’s victory in the World Cup and de la Espriella’s electoral success. “The Colombian team played well, and I hope they continue their winning streak. Another victory would be de la Espriella winning the election,” he said.
The runoff election is not just a choice between two candidates but a reflection of the diverse concerns and aspirations of the Colombian diaspora. As voters cast their ballots, they are shaping the future of their homeland from afar, driven by a shared desire for a better Colombia.
