Chilean President José Antonio Kast faces record low approval ratings

Chilean President José Antonio Kast is facing a significant decline in public approval, with recent polls from Cadem and Agenda Criteria placing his approval ratings between 30% and 34%. Disapproval has risen to levels as high as 61%. This downturn coincides with economic challenges, including a 1.5% contraction in the monthly activity index (Imacec) in July 2026, and concerns regarding security and employment.

Additionally, bilateral tensions with Argentina have surfaced in public perception. A Cadem survey indicates that 40% of respondents view Argentina as an “enemy” of Chile, while 71% believe Argentina has “territorial pretensions” regarding the sovereignty of the Strait of Magellan. This follows controversial statements from Argentine officials and a joint declaration between Kast and President Javier Milei. While 60% of those surveyed view Milei as a “friend” to the Chilean leader, the territorial dispute remains a point of friction.