The Forces Remaking the Region in the Age of Trump
Brian Winter | Foreign Affairs, January/February 2026
The rise of the Latin America right reflects a broader political transformation unfolding across the region. In Latin America’s Revolution of the Right, Brian Winter examines how conservative and right-leaning movements are reshaping national politics amid economic frustration and institutional fatigue.
Economic Drivers Behind the Latin America Right
Winter explains that persistent inflation, stagnant growth, and rising insecurity have weakened public trust in traditional political parties. As a result, the Latin America rightwing movements has gained traction by promising stronger executive authority, market reforms, and anti-corruption campaigns.
Moreover, many voters perceive existing institutions as ineffective or captured by elites. Consequently, right-leaning leaders present themselves as corrective forces capable of restoring order and economic stability.
The Trump Era and Regional Influence
The article also explores how global political currents influenced the Latin America right. During the Trump era, nationalist rhetoric and confrontational political styles resonated beyond U.S. borders. Although each country maintains distinct institutional dynamics, regional leaders adopted similar messaging strategies centered on sovereignty and executive strength.
At the same time, the article stresses that this political shift is not uniform. Domestic conditions—such as party systems, civil society strength, and economic structures—shape how right-wing movements consolidate power.
Structural Shift or Political Cycle?
Winter suggests that the rise of the Latin America conservative realignment may represent more than a temporary electoral swing. Instead, it reflects deeper tensions within democratic governance models across the region.
Ultimately, the region’s political future will depend on whether new conservative governments can deliver economic results without weakening democratic institutions. The durability of the Latin America right will therefore hinge on performance rather than rhetoric alone.
Reference
Winter, B. (2026). Latin America’s revolution of the right: The forces remaking the region in the age of Trump. Foreign Affairs, 105(1). https://www.foreignaffairs.com/