In San Salvador, El Salvador, on December 19, 2023, El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele sparked diplomatic tension with the United States on Tuesday, criticizing the Colorado Supreme Court’s decision to remove former President Donald Trump from the state’s 2024 presidential ballot. The ruling, based on claims that Trump’s actions on January 6th, 2021, violated the 14th Amendment’s “insurrectionist ban,” drew a fiery response from Bukele, a leader known for his outspokenness.
In a series of tweets, Bukele denounced the Colorado court’s decision as “political persecution” and expressed his support for Trump, calling him a “victim of cancel culture.” Bukele and Trump previously shared positive remarks while Trump was in office, with Bukele praising Trump’s stance on immigration and Trump, in turn, applauding Bukele’s leadership in El Salvador.
Bukele’s remarks could potentially strain diplomatic relations between El Salvador and the United States. The ruling by the Colorado court, while controversial, is part of a legal process within the American judicial system. Bukele’s strong stance directly criticizing the decision and aligning himself with a politically-charged figure in the U.S. could be seen as interference in internal affairs.
Bukele’s comments may also be viewed through the lens of domestic politics in El Salvador. He has cultivated a populist image and often positions himself as an outsider challenging established norms. By siding with Trump, who faces domestic controversy in the U.S., Bukele may be aiming to project a similar image of defiance against perceived elite interests.
The full impact of Bukele’s remarks remains to be seen. While his support for Trump might resonate with some of his own base, it could also alienate others, particularly those who favor closer ties with the United States. Additionally, the U.S. government’s response to Bukele’s comments is still unknown, adding further uncertainty to the situation.
