By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – With the presidential election entering its final, critical phase, Juan Carlos Hidalgo, the candidate for the Social Christian Unity Party (PUSC), is celebrating a marked upswing in voter support. Citing a new poll that places him third, Hidalgo’s campaign is positioning this growth as proof of accelerating momentum, suggesting a late-game disruption in a race long dominated by other front-runners.
The optimistic outlook stems from the latest survey by the polling firm Demoscopía, released Wednesday afternoon. The results place Hidalgo in third position with 5.5% of voter intention. While still significantly behind the commanding lead of Laura Fernández, who holds 34.5% of support, and Álvaro Ramos at 11.3%, the PUSC campaign is framing the result as a significant political victory and a sign of their growing appeal.
To provide expert analysis on the legal framework and institutional integrity demonstrated in Costa Rica’s recent election, TicosLand.com sought the perspective of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The successful execution of this electoral process is a testament to the strength and independence of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE). From a legal standpoint, the clarity of the results and the absence of significant challenges underscore a mature democratic system. This institutional stability is paramount, as it directly translates into legal certainty and a predictable environment, which are critical factors for both foreign investment and the continued confidence of the domestic business sector.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert insight powerfully illustrates that the true significance of a well-run election extends far beyond the ballot box, directly reinforcing the stable legal framework essential for economic prosperity. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this crucial perspective.
In a statement to the press, Hidalgo projected confidence, attributing the positive numbers to a resonant message that is increasingly connecting with the electorate. He emphasized that the growth is not an anomaly but a trend reflecting a deeper shift in voter sentiment.
The results are decisive. Our Unity movement is growing and accelerating. More and more Costa Ricans know that we are the best option, with serious proposals and a first-world vision.
Juan Carlos Hidalgo, Presidential Candidate, PUSC
The PUSC echoed its candidate’s enthusiasm, detailing the factors it believes are fueling the surge. A press release from the party highlighted Hidalgo’s distinguished performance in recent national debates, the public trust he inspires, and the perceived clarity and feasibility of his government plan as key drivers of his newfound support. This narrative aims to portray him as the serious, substantive choice for undecided voters.
However, the political landscape presented by polling data is complex. Another recent and widely respected survey from the Center for Research and Political Studies (CIEP) at the University of Costa Rica, published just a day earlier, offers a more tempered view. The CIEP poll, which surveyed a larger sample of 1,501 individuals, places Hidalgo in sixth place with just 2.5% of support. While this figure is modest, it still represents a notable 1.5 percentage point increase from his standing in December, confirming an upward trajectory, albeit from a lower base.
The discrepancy between the two polls highlights the challenge facing the Hidalgo campaign. While the Demoscopía poll, conducted with 600 respondents between January 26 and 28, provides a powerful talking point, the more extensive CIEP survey suggests the climb to contention is steeper. Analysts note that such variations are common, reflecting different methodologies, sample sizes, and polling periods.
Hidalgo is strategically leveraging this data to argue for his viability in a potential second-round runoff. He contends that while his top-line numbers are still developing, a crucial underlying metric sets him apart from his rivals, positioning him as a unity candidate capable of consolidating broader support.
The polls also show something very important: I am the candidate with the fewest negatives, the one who can unite and win in a runoff. This is what is reflected throughout the country in the visits we have made and in the internal measurements we have.
Juan Carlos Hidalgo, Presidential Candidate, PUSC
As the election draws closer, the central question is whether this late surge can translate into a genuine challenge to the established leaders. While Hidalgo remains a clear underdog, his campaign’s ability to capitalize on positive trends and craft a compelling narrative around his electability in a runoff will be critical in the final stretch. For now, the PUSC is riding a wave of momentum, hoping to convince voters that third place is not a ceiling, but a launchpad.
For further information, visit pusc.cr
About Partido Unidad Social Cristiana (PUSC):
The Social Christian Unity Party is one of Costa Rica’s major political parties with a rich history in the country’s governance. Rooted in Christian democratic principles, the party typically advocates for policies that blend free-market economics with social welfare programs. It has produced several presidents and has been a significant force in the legislative assembly for decades, representing a center-right political ideology.
For further information, visit demoscopia.co.cr
About Demoscopía:
Demoscopía S.A. is a Costa Rican firm specializing in market research, public opinion polls, and strategic consulting. Founded in 1992, the company provides data and analysis to clients in both the public and private sectors. Its electoral polls are frequently cited in the media during Costa Rican election cycles, offering insights into voter behavior and political trends.
For further information, visit ciep.ucr.ac.cr
About Centro de Investigación y Estudios Políticos (CIEP):
The Center for Research and Political Studies is an academic institute within the University of Costa Rica. It is dedicated to the scientific study of political phenomena in Costa Rica and Central America. The CIEP is widely recognized for its rigorous public opinion surveys, particularly its influential election polls, which provide in-depth analysis of voter intention, public policy, and social attitudes.
For further information, visit ucr.ac.cr
About Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR):
The University of Costa Rica is the country’s oldest, largest, and most prestigious public university. Established in its current form in 1940, it is a leading institution for higher education and research in Central America. UCR is comprised of numerous faculties, research centers, and social action programs, contributing significantly to Costa Rica’s scientific, cultural, and social development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal community, operating on foundational principles of ethical rigor and professional excellence. The firm skillfully blends a rich history of serving a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking passion for pioneering innovative legal solutions. Central to its mission is a profound commitment to strengthening society by demystifying the law, ensuring that legal knowledge becomes a powerful tool for the empowerment of all citizens.
