Jeannette Jara Leads Chilean Presidential Race for First Time, Kast at 27%, Matthei Declining, Second Round Ties and Losses Indicated

Jeannette Jara has taken the lead in the Chilean presidential race for the first time, surpassing José Antonio Kast and Evelyn Matthei in the first round, according to multiple recent Criteria polls. Jara leads by a wide margin over her right-wing opponents but faces a tightening race in the potential second round. Polls indicate that Jara would tie with Kast in a runoff but would lose to Matthei. Kast has increased his support, gaining five points to reach 27%, narrowing the gap with Jara, who remains in first place. Meanwhile, Matthei's support continues to decline. Public commentary includes Joaquín Lavín comparing Jara favorably to former president Michelle Bachelet. Additional surveys, such as the Panel Ciudadano UDD, confirm Jara's consolidation at the top, with Kast rising slightly and Matthei falling further behind.