Chile’s Boring Conservative President: New Commentary by Professor Andrés Velasco

Andrés Velasco, Professor at the School of Public Policy, has published a new Project Syndicate commentary, Chile’s Boring Conservative President, examining the first six months of José Antonio Kast’s presidency and what his governing style reveals about the direction of Chilean politics.

In the article, Professor Velasco argues that, despite expectations that Kast might follow the path of other populist leaders on the political right, his approach has so far been notably restrained. Rather than governing as a pugnacious populist, Kast has adopted an old-style conservative agenda and governing style, combining socially conservative views with a strong emphasis on free-market economics.

Professor Velasco explores some of the ways Kast has moderated his campaign rhetoric since taking office. While he previously made strong promises on immigration, crime and government spending, his administration has taken a more cautious approach, with several of its most ambitious commitments yet to translate into significant policy changes.

The commentary also examines Kast’s economic agenda, including tax cuts and efforts to reduce government spending. Professor Velasco argues that these policies carry risks, particularly if the combination of lower taxes and relatively unchanged spending leads to wider fiscal deficits and rising public debt.

Ultimately, Professor Velasco suggests that Kast’s deliberately restrained approach may offer some welcome stability, but that it also comes with political and economic costs. With his approval rating remaining low and more populist figures waiting in the wings, the consequences of a government that chooses to be “boring” may become increasingly significant for Chile’s political future.

• Read the full article on Project Syndicate.