Alvaro Delgadopresidential candidate of National Party In the upcoming elections on October 27, he discussed his political vision and his proposal for Uruguay if elected. His candidacy is marked by the desire to offer “continuity” to the current government of Luis Lacalle Pou, aiming not only to maintain the progress made, but to “press the accelerator” in key areas such as security, education and child poverty.
In the interview published this Sunday by the newspaper El País, the right-wing candidate began by explaining that his motivation to be president is part of a “broader” project to follow up on what was carried out by the government of the liberal Lacalle Pou, of which he was Secretary of the Presidency for almost his entire term, until he resigned to run.
In several of the most recent polls, Delgado’s pass to the runoff is at risk due to the meteoric rise of the Colorado Party candidate, Andrés Ojeda, who in turn feels very hopeful of being able to compete against Yamandú Orsi, of the leftist Frente Amplio , in the second round.
The continuity of Lacalle and the flight of votes to the left
Delgado also relies on his relationship with Lacalle Pou, whom he considers an “important advisor,” ensuring that will maintain his legacy and seek to enhance personal aspects and coalition coordination. However, he emphasizes that his approach is to re-elect a course, not a specific leadership, maintaining channels of cooperation in the government.
Regarding the polls that favor the Frente Amplio, Delgado shows confidence that the flight of votes to the left will be minimalrelying on the proven management and achievements of the current government to persuade voters. In addition, he calls on the militancy of the National Party, highlighting an atmosphere of continuity that he perceives in his tours around the country.
“Creo that it is impossible today to predict a second timeelta. If we achieve that the coalition has a parliamentary majority, and we are one step away from having it, the entire scheme changes. The deck is shuffled again and dealt back. Because if we have a parliamentary majority, I, on behalf of the coalition, am going to tell the people: ‘Now that you have elected a Parliament with a direction, we must elect a president who will execute this direction. Let’s not block the country.’ I am convinced that the flight (of votes) will be very little. Among other things because the cucos that we were going to end with the carnivals and the social plans are no longer there; and because now we have a team that is prepared, tested and ready to continue governing. And because today the coalition is internalized.
Regarding the internal challenges in his party and the criticism received for his choice of running mate, Valeria RipollDelgado recognizes the surprises but defends his decision as aligned with an inclusive and paradigmatic vision for the National Party. At the same time, he avoids commenting on internal strategies of rival coalitions, highlighting his focus on consolidating a strong coalition to guarantee a stable government with a parliamentary majority.
