President José Antonio Kast's administration is facing a decline in popularity and a drastic loss of public confidence in his campaign promises. According to an advance report of the Cadem Plaza Pública survey for the fifth week of April, the President's approval rating dipped one point to 40%, while disapproval of his administration rose four points to reach 57%.
This level of disapproval marks the highest recorded since the President took office. The poll reflects a significant retreat in public expectations regarding the fundamental pillars of his government program, particularly in the areas of security, the economy, and migration.
Crisis of Expectations in Security and Migration
According to data published by La Tercera, optimism regarding crime control has plummeted. The probability respondents assign to the government to reduce crime fell 21 points, leaving expectations at just 33%. Similarly, confidence in the management of irregular migration also took a heavy hit, dropping 20 points to 41%.
The economic sector is not immune to this downturn. According to the same source, the belief that the administration will manage to drive economic growth above 4% fell 19 points, currently sitting at 33%.
Regarding public agenda priorities, CNN Chile reported that citizens identify reducing crime and homicides as the most urgent measure, with a 58% preference. This is followed by middle-class relief projects at 29% and the National Reconstruction plan at 21%.
Debate Over Public Spending and State Cuts
The survey also reveals a divide in the perception of the country's fiscal situation. Sixty-three percent of those surveyed believe the State has sufficient resources to meet its commitments, representing a 20-point increase. Conversely, the percentage of people who perceive a critical fiscal situation fell 25 points, dropping to 8%, according to La Tercera.
Regarding budget management, there is a consensus on where to cut spending. Fifty-one percent of respondents indicate that the area with the most room for cuts is the administration and functioning of the State, a figure that decreased by 5 points. In contrast, the demand for increased public investment persists, with 46% advocating for more spending on healthcare and 31% requesting it for education.
The austerity measures announced by the Executive have also drawn mixed reactions. CNN Chile reported that while 52% agree with halting the expansion works at the GAM, there is majority opposition to the review or elimination of state programs, with 59% of respondents disagreeing with the proposed reduction of the 142 state programs currently under review.
