Bolivia Heads to Runoff Election Signaling Major Political and Economic Shift

Bolivia is set to vote in a decisive presidential runoff on Sunday, marking a historic political shift away from socialism toward a pro-U.S., market-oriented future. The race features centrist Senator Rodrigo Paz and conservative former president Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga — both committed to rebuilding relations with Washington and revitalizing Bolivia’s struggling economy after years of leftist governance.

For the first time in two decades, Bolivia’s presidency is contested between two pro-market leaders, signaling the decline of the Movement to Socialism (MAS) party founded by Evo Morales. Morales, who governed from 2006 as the nation’s first Indigenous president, aligned Bolivia with Cuba, Venezuela, and Russia while nationalizing its energy sector. In contrast, the current contenders are promising closer U.S. cooperation and economic reform.

Polls indicate a tight race, with a September Ipsos survey showing Quiroga leading with 47% to Paz’s 39%. Both candidates have unveiled ambitious plans to stabilize the economy. Paz has proposed a $1.5 billion U.S. economic cooperation deal to secure energy supplies, while Quiroga seeks a $12 billion international bailout and vows to cut public spending and privatize loss-making state enterprises. Paz, however, advocates gradual reforms that preserve key social programs.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the election as a “transformative opportunity,” noting both candidates’ commitment to stronger bilateral ties. The vote follows years of economic hardship, with inflation surging to 23% and severe shortages of fuel and foreign currency crippling local businesses.

Many Bolivians, weary of economic stagnation, see the election as a turning point. “We’re basically surviving,” said La Paz market vendor Marcela Martinez. “We need new people to come in.” Polls open at 8 a.m. local time, with initial results expected after 9 p.m.