Chile election results point to generational change

Significance

In the parliamentary polls, a strong performance by the Frente Amplio (FA), a new left-wing alliance, and the election of an important contingent of newcomers to Congress, mark the start of a long-delayed generational change in Chilean politics. They also suggest that the run-off presidential ballot on December 17 will be tight.

Impacts

• The results do not necessarily imply a shift to the left, but rather that voters are eager for new faces in politics.
• Polling methodologies will need to be reviewed after serious errors in forecasts, probably related to coverage of younger voters.
• The next government, particularly if headed by Pinera, will find managing Congress difficult.