Rodrigo Paz Wins Bolivia Runoff; Seeks US, Israel Ties

Rodrigo Paz Pereira of the Christian Democratic Party won Bolivia’s Oct. 19 runoff, defeating Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga roughly 54.6% to 45.4%, ending nearly two decades of Movement Toward Socialism rule. The 58-year-old economist-turned-senator, viewed as a centrist and pro-business leader, pledged pragmatic economic fixes and invoked God, family and unity in his victory speech. Paz has announced plans to restore diplomatic ties with the United States and reengage with Israel and other international partners, a shift welcomed by U.S. officials and Israeli leaders who urged ambassadorial exchanges. He takes office on Nov. 8 and faces an uphill task stabilizing a recession marked by fuel and dollar shortages and inflation above 20%. His centrist approach aims to build broad political support to implement urgent economic and diplomatic changes.