Chilean President José Antonio Kast faces record disapproval

President José Antonio Kast is facing a significant decline in public approval in Chile, with recent polling indicating record-high disapproval ratings. According to the Cadem survey, disapproval reached 65%, while other polls such as Criteria and Data Influye reported rejection levels between 58% and 62%.

Public security has emerged as a primary driver of discontent. Approximately 56% of citizens believe the government bears the main responsibility for combating crime. Concerns are centered on increasing violence, with 68% of respondents perceiving crime as becoming more violent and 70% expressing fear of becoming victims. The most feared crimes include violent robbery, carjackings, and home burglaries.

Beyond security, the administration is facing social and economic pressures. Protests from students, teachers, and healthcare workers have emerged regarding proposed budget cuts for 2027. Economic stressors, including rising fuel costs, high levels of informal employment, and unemployment, are also contributing to a sense of social exhaustion and political erosion.