Chile President José Antonio Kast sees approval plunge after turbulent first 100 days

President José Antonio Kast’s first 100 days in Chile have been marked by a series of unfulfilled promises, steep fiscal cuts, a rapid cabinet reshuffle and a historic rise in fuel prices. Analysts and polls show his approval rating has dropped from the 58% he won with to around 30%, with the public questioning the viability of his megareform agenda and large tax reductions. The government has also faced criticism for its handling of security policy, leading to a change of interior minister in May.

In the southern region of Magallanes, concerns are growing over the lack of concrete investment and decentralisation plans. Local commentators warn that cuts to municipal funding and delays in infrastructure projects could worsen regional disparities, emphasizing the need for genuine power and resource transfers from Santiago.