Valencia Faces Uphill Battle in Colombia’s 2026 Presidential Race

Colombian Senator Paloma Valencia is heading into the 2026 presidential election facing a difficult path to a strong first-round showing, with her support expected to fall short of the 10% threshold when voters go to the polls on May 31.

Valencia, a prominent conservative figure, is likely to compete in a crowded field where fragmentation on the right and the strength of rival candidates could limit her share of valid votes. The first round will determine whether any candidate can secure an outright majority; otherwise, the top two contenders will advance to a runoff scheduled for June 21.

Her campaign’s performance will be closely watched as a measure of conservative voter alignment ahead of the runoff phase, particularly if alliances and endorsements become decisive in shaping the final contest.