QCOSTARICA — 96% of Costa Ricans believe in God, some deity or a higher power that influences their lives, according to a survey by the National University last week and, therefore, conservative voters will be a prized prize for the 2026 elections.
In recent weeks, several decisions taken by President Rodrigo Chaves seek to reverse the progressive agenda left by previous governments and, in the process, sweeten that conservative vote, according to several political actors interviewed by LA REPÚBLICA.
The elimination of the anti-bullying protocol in schools and colleges for the LGBT population, more severe penalties against abortion with 12 years in prison and the elimination of previous sexual education programs are some of the decisions taken by Chaves.
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Read more: Government of Costa Rica proposes changes to toughen penalties for abortion
“On the threshold of the next electoral campaign and one day before two ministers of his government resigned to enter the political fray, President Rodrigo Chaves is leading a conservative attack, equal to or worse than what scared us in 2018 with the emergence of Fabricio Alvarado. There is no doubt that Chavismo is disputing conservative sectors that have enormous weight in the elections,” said Patricia Mora, president of the Frente Amplio party.
In Costa Rica, 70% of Ticos consider that abortion “is never acceptable,” while 37% reject homosexuality.
On the other hand, half of Ticos (50%) identify themselves as Catholic, while 31% consider themselves evangelical. In this last sector, more than half (55%) participate in Bible groups, and 38% are involved in evangelistic activities, according to the survey.
“The president dreams of the idea that Chavismo will have 38 legisaltors in the next government and thinks that by uniting the conservatives he will win in the first round. However, I have to say that the president is very confident one year before the elections,” said Fabián Solano, president of the PAC.
Currently the PPSD, the Government party holds 8 seats in the Legislative Assembly.
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Extended position
The pro-conservative position that President Chavez has shown in recent weeks is also defended by Laura Fernández, former Minister of the Presidency who recently resigned and who is emerging as the Chavismo candidate for the elections.
In fact, the possible candidate declared herself a defender of life and opposed to any attempt to promote abortion.
“Defending the lives of Costa Ricans who have not yet been born is an obligation of the State. Abortion is nothing more than murder and, therefore, penalties must be toughened,” she said.
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