COVID delay will raise Chile election uncertainties

Significance

The bill, promulgated last night by President Sebastian Pinera, rescheduled until May 15-16 the landmark elections of members of a convention to draft a new constitution, as well as of regional governors, local mayors and councillors.

Impacts

• Campaigns will have to be interrupted and restarted two weeks before the new date.
• Candidates with more resources who can extend campaign funding are likely to benefit.
• New, stricter lockdowns will dampen efforts to kick-start the economy in the short term.