US Democrats condemn Trump interference in Colombia presidential runoff

A coalition of 20 U.S. Democratic members of the House, led by Representative Jim McGovern, issued a statement rejecting what they described as the Trump administration’s attempt to sway Colombia’s upcoming presidential runoff. They called the actions “an insult to Colombia’s sovereignty and integrity” and said they violate the United States’ principle of non‑interference in foreign elections.

The criticism follows President Donald Trump’s social‑media endorsement of ultraconservative candidate Abelardo de la Espriella, whom he said would boost economic growth, security and bilateral cooperation, while labeling the officialist Iván Cepeda as a “radical left” representative. The runoff, scheduled for 21 June, pits de la Espriella – who led the first round with 43.7% of the vote – against Cepeda, who earned 40.9%.

Democrats warned that such overt support could undermine democratic rights in Colombia and exacerbate the already polarized campaign.