Republican National Hispanic Assembly Of FL Stands With The International Colombian Community As They Go To The Polls To Make Their Voices Heard

WESTON, Fla. - June 21, 2026 - PRLog -- As Colombians prepare to vote in today's presidential runoff, communities at home and abroad are watching one of the country's most consequential elections. For millions of Colombians, the outcome will shape the country's economy, security, and international standing for years to come.

Voters face a stark choice between Abelardo de la Espriella and Iván Cepeda, who advanced from a 13-candidate field after the May 31 first round. De la Espriella led with 43.7% of the vote to Cepeda's 40.9% — a margin of less than three points in a race widely described as the most polarized in Colombia's recent history.

Florida is home to one of the largest Colombian communities in the United States, with a statewide population exceeding 440,000 — including an estimated 93,000 in Broward County alone. Among those closely following the race is Marta Mesa, Vice Chair of the Republican National Hispanic Assembly of Florida (RNHAFL) and a native of Colombia. Mesa will serve as an election jury member and poll watcher in Weston, helping ensure transparency in the voting process for Colombians abroad.

"This election is about much more than politics," said Mesa. "It is about the future of Colombia, the opportunities available to its citizens, and the values that will guide the nation for years to come. Every vote matters, and every Colombian has a responsibility to participate in shaping our country's future."

The runoff arrives as Colombia faces economic and security pressures, with stability and investment top of mind for families and businesses alike. More than 1,300 international observers from 22 countries monitored the first round, which they described as orderly and transparent.

As Colombians head to the polls, the international community and the diaspora remain attentive, recognizing that the results will have lasting implications for Colombia and the broader region.

"The strength of a democracy is measured not by the promises of its leaders, but by the participation of its citizens. Colombians have the opportunity to shape the future of their nation through the power of the ballot box." Marta Mesa, Vice Chair, RNHA FL.

About the RNHA: The Republican National Hispanic Assembly is the oldest and largest Hispanic Republican organization in the United States, dedicated to advancing conservative principles and strengthening Hispanic representation within the Republican Party. Learn more at RNHAFlorida.org or follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/RNHAFL) and Instagram @RNHAFL (https://www.instagram.com/rnhafl/)