Honduras election results in a "technical tie" while Trump attempts to influence the outcome

Tegucigalpa, Honduras The Central American country's electoral authority reported on Monday that the presidential contest remains extremely close, with businessman Nasry Asfura, who has received support from former U.S. President Donald Trump, holding a marginal lead over right-wing TV host Salvador Nasralla. According to Ana Paola Hall, head of the National Electoral Council (CNE), the preliminary digital tally showed Asfura ahead by only 515 votes, a margin considered a "technical tie."

Hall urged the public to exercise "patience" as the CNE begins a manual verification of the vote, which could reshape the outcome in a nation where the ruling leftist party has struggled to maintain influence.

Trumps Intervention

Prior to the election, Asfura secured Trumps endorsement, signaling the former U.S. presidents continued involvement in Latin American politics. On his Truth Social platform, Trump accused the Honduran electoral body of attempting to manipulate the results and insisted that all votes be counted. He warned that any interference would have serious consequences.

Trump has increasingly voiced support for political allies across the region, threatening to reduce aid to countries like Argentina and Honduras if his preferred candidates fail. While his endorsed ally Javier Milei succeeded in Argentinas midterm elections, Asfuras path to victory remains uncertain despite his campaign slogan, "Grandad, at your service!"

Shift in Honduran Politics

The close contest marks a setback for the ruling leftist faction, which trails far behind in the vote count. A conservative victory could enhance U.S. influence in Honduras, a nation that has recently looked toward China under leftist leadership. The campaign was also influenced by Trumps promise to pardon former President Juan Orlando Hernandez of the National Party, who is serving a 45-year sentence in the U.S. for involvement in large-scale drug trafficking.

Many Hondurans have fled violence and poverty, seeking refuge in the U.S., though Trumps immigration policies have made the journey more difficult. Since January, nearly 30,000 Hondurans have been deported, impacting the countrys economy, where remittances represent a significant portion of GDP.

Opinions on Trumps involvement are divided. Some citizens welcomed it, hoping for improved immigration treatment, while others rejected foreign influence. "I vote for whomever I please, not because of what Trump has said," said Esmeralda Rodriguez, a local fruit seller. Merchant Michelle Pineda expressed the desire for a government that views the country beyond economic gain.

Election Uncertainty and Broader Issues

Concerns about potential election fraud have heightened tensions in the politically polarized nation. Counting has been slow, and final results could take several days. In addition to the presidency, lawmakers and hundreds of mayors were also elected. Despite Hondurass long-standing issues with drug trafficking, poverty, and violence, these topics were largely absent from campaign discussions.

Maria Velasquez, a 58-year-old resident, expressed hope that the incoming administration would maintain strong communication with Trump while addressing local needs. "I just want to escape poverty," she said.

Author: Sophia Brooks