Mr. Santos’ second bid for the presidency comes as the country’s growth accelerated faster than expected the second quarter, growing 4.2%. That was down 0.6 percentage points from the same period in 2012, but greater than the 2.8% expansion in the first quarter.
While Mr. Santos appears as the clear favorite in the 2014 elections, he does face some headwinds. His approval ratings plummeted in September, amid widespread strikes by agricultural workers that hindered the country’s food supply chain. People were also frustrated by what they saw as little progress in the peace process. His approval rating fell to around 20%, an all-time low.
Polls show that less than a third of Colombians want Santos back in the presidential palace come next August (when the possession takes place). However, with the state`s largesse at his disposal, the coalition votes in the bag, and the majority of the national media “on message”, public opinion will struggle to be heard. Santos` re-election has an air of inevitability.
The elections will take place next May.
