The Wall Street Journal - Why El Salvador President Bukele Is So Popular With Trump’s Inner Circle | WSJ
Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has become a prominent figure in right-wing politics globally, especially admired by the U.S. conservative movement. His aggressive crackdown on gangs has transformed El Salvador from a high-crime nation to one of the safest in Latin America. This has involved controversial measures like jailing over 1% of the population and ruling under emergency powers that suspend civil liberties. Despite criticism from rights groups about human rights violations and erosion of democratic checks, Bukele's popularity remains high, partly due to his effective use of social media to rebrand El Salvador and his alignment with U.S. right-wing rhetoric. His relationship with Trump and other MAGA figures has strengthened, with Bukele seen as a model for tough-on-crime policies. However, concerns persist about the implications of his authoritarian methods and their influence on U.S. politics.
Key Points:
- Bukele's crime crackdown has made El Salvador safer but raised human rights concerns.
- He has jailed over 1% of the population, leading to the world's highest incarceration rate.
- Bukele's use of social media has rebranded El Salvador and increased his international appeal.
- His relationship with Trump and U.S. conservatives highlights a shared tough-on-crime stance.
- Critics warn that Bukele's authoritarian methods could influence U.S. political strategies.
Details:
1. 🇸🇻 Bukele's Rise: A Right-Wing Icon
1.1. Bukele's Influence on International Politics
1.2. Domestic Impact of Bukele's Policies
2. 🔒 Security Over Freedoms: Bukele's Controversial Policies
2.1. Bukele's Domestic Policies and Impact
2.2. International Response and Comparisons
3. 🌍 Rebranding El Salvador: Marketing Genius
3.1. Social Media Strategy
3.2. International Engagement
4. 🤝 U.S. Connections: Bukele's Strategic Alliances
- President Bukele gained attention from the MAGA movement after his visit to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative research institute in DC, known for its Project 2025 policy blueprint for the federal government.
- Bukele's interview with Tucker Carlson at Fox in Maine marked a significant turning point in his U.S. engagements, highlighting his stance on free speech over gun rights as a threat to governments.
- Bukele was invited to CPAC, which is a major gathering for Republicans, where he received a warm welcome, including support from hotel staff with Salvadorian flags.
- At CPAC, Bukele declared that globalism is 'already dead' in El Salvador, resonating with the audience and having one of the longest lines for photos after President Trump.
- Bukele has made significant inroads with the MAGA wing of the Republican party, evidenced by the presence of Donald Trump Jr. and Alex Bruesewitz at his second inauguration.
- Bukele has developed a relationship with Elon Musk, meeting in person for the first time in Texas in late 2024, showcasing his ability to connect with influential figures.