Ecuador to choose between socialism and free markets in presidential runoff

[Judi Lynn]

APRIL 8, 202110:46 AMUPDATED 8 HOURS AGO

By Alexandra Valencia
3 MIN READ

QUITO (Reuters) - Ecuadoreans on Sunday will choose between a conservative banker and a left-wing economist in a presidential runoff that follows months of debate over whether the country’s economic malaise can be best treated through socialism or market-friendly policies.

Polls broadly indicate socialist Andres Arauz, a protege of former President Rafael Correa, with a lead over rival Guillermo Lasso, with many showing a quarter or more of the electorate either undecided or planning to spoil their ballot.

A victory for Arauz would further consolidate a string of leftist electoral victories in South America in the last year, while a win for Lasso would leave Ecuador in the political and commercial orbit of the United States as he seeks to create jobs through foreign investment.

Investors are closely watching the outcome because Arauz has promised to renegotiate the terms of a financing deal with the International Monetary Fund and to vastly expand social welfare spending despite precarious state finances.

More:
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ecuador-election/ecuador-to-choose-between-socialism-and-free-markets-in-presidential-runoff-idUSKBN2BV2EJ

Ecuador fared so well with leftist President Rafael Correa. Voters expected far better when Correa's Vice President ran next, not knowing he would turn 180 degrees as soon as he was elected, and the country suffered. There shouldn't be a question about electing a progressive President this time.

[Generic Other]

1. They vote on Sunday

And dog Magog does not even send lightning, fire and brimstone. Huh.