Jeanette Jara Seeks Unity and Reassurance as Chilean Presidential Campaign Gains Momentum
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Despite facing internal divisions and lingering doubts about her performance, Chilean presidential candidate Jeanette Jara is attempting to consolidate support from across the political spectrum as the election draws near. Jara leveraged the start of national holiday celebrations and the official launch of her campaign to project an image of unity within the ruling coalition and reaffirm her ability to challenge right-wing contenders.
Jara’s campaign launch, held at the popular Victoria bar in the Pedro Aguirre Cerda commune, was strategically designed to address growing concerns about the absence of prominent figures from Chile’s democratic socialist movement. She appeared alongside Carolina Tohá, former Minister of the Interior, and Deputy Gonzalo Winter, both of whom had distanced themselves during the primary elections. The gathering at Carlos Valdovinos 1951 included leaders from across the government coalition and key members of the Communist Party – with notable exceptions.
The absence of Communist Party President Lautaro Carmona and General Secretary Bárbara Figueroa signaled a significant rift between Jara and a segment of her own party, highlighting internal tensions that threaten to undermine her campaign. According to sources close to Jara, this transition from representing solely the communist party to becoming the face of the broader left has been unexpectedly challenging. “They did not see it coming and now they will not see it coming,” a key advisor, former PC sociologist DarÃo Quiroga, reportedly stated privately, reinforcing a strategy focused on Jara remaining authentic despite the pressures.
Recovering from Debate Setback
Jara’s public appearance also served as an attempt to counter negative perceptions stemming from her performance in the recent televised debate. She has as embarked on a series of “listening sessions” – informal meetings held in community centers and public spaces – designed to create a neutral space for dialogue.
During these meetings,Jara shared her experiences in the governments of Michelle Bachelet and Gabriel Boric,outlining her vision for pension reform. Attendees were asked to identify the most pressing issues facing their communities, and Jara pledged to return with potential solutions.The responses overwhelmingly reflected concerns about the shortcomings of the Boric management, including long waiting lists for public healthcare, rising insecurity, and unemployment – issues that opponents have directly linked to Jara’s own background as a former Minister of Labor.
Senator Gastón Saavedra (PS) asserted that Jara’s focus is shifting from listening to citizens to actively engaging with them and their families. However, Jara continues to face internal challenges, including criticism from within her own party, led by Carmona and Daniel Jadue, who reportedly view her leadership as a threat to the PC’s more radical stance. jara has expressed disappointment with both Carmona and Bárbara Figueroa, stating that her relationship with Carmona is irrevocably broken.
Jara’s decision to include Carolina Tohá in her campaign has also drawn scrutiny, with some leaders from the PPD questioning her chances in a potential second round.Some privately accused Jara of unfair tactics, alleging she concealed her Communist Party affiliation during the campaign.
Despite these challenges, Jara’s team remains optimistic. Plans for a new government program are underway, aiming to address key criticisms. A pact has reportedly been reached with the Communist Party directive to avoid further internal questioning of the platform. While immediate “winks to the centre” are being avoided, they are expected to be incorporated closer to the November 16th election.
A planned appearance at a traditional Catholic service on Thursday was unexpectedly cancelled due to “personal issues,” raising questions about Jara’s stamina and energy levels during this crucial final stretch. While discussions about adding a running mate, such as Minister Camila Vallejo or Nicolás Cataldo, were considered, they were ultimately dismissed, with Jara choosing to rely on her existing core team – comprised of former Labor Ministry collaborators, including Jorge Millaquén and Javiera Milla.As one observer, Leo Cubillos, noted, Jara’s personal effort is “admirable and worth highlighting.” The coming weeks will be critical as Jara attempts to solidify her position as a leader of the Chilean left and navigate a challenging electoral landscape.
