El Salvador's Legislative Assembly, dominated by President Nayib Bukele's party Nuevas Ideas, approved a constitutional reform allowing for indefinite presidential reelection and extending the presidential term from five to six years. The reform was passed with a 57-3 vote and also eliminated the second round of presidential elections. Bukele, aged 44, could potentially remain in power for decades under the new rules. He defended the reform, rejecting claims that it marks the "end of democracy," attributing criticism to the country's status as "small and poor." The U.S. Department of State supported the reform, emphasizing that El Salvador's Legislative Assembly was democratically elected and has the sovereign right to determine its governance. However, critics, including international human rights organizations and media outlets, warn that the changes threaten democratic principles, citing concerns over the lack of separation of powers, freedom of the press, due process, and the existence of political prisoners. Bukele's administration has been credited with reducing criminal gangs through controversial measures and negotiations, but questions remain about the democratic cost of his governance style.