Chilean Actor with Down Syndrome Aims for Presidential Position
A Chilean actor with Down syndrome, Sebastián Solorza, has declared his intention to run for president in the upcoming national election on November 16, 2025 [1][2][3]. As an independent candidate, Solorza faces a significant challenge in gathering the required 35,000 signatures by August 18, 2025, to qualify for the ballot [2][3].
Solorza rose to national fame for his leading role in the Chilean thriller "Chromosome 21," which ranked second on Netflix in Chile just two days after its release in 2022. Now, he aims to use his platform to "raise the voices of people with Down syndrome" and help to "demystify myths and prejudices still present in society" [1][2].
His campaign has been met with both support and criticism. While some see his candidacy as historic and socially impactful, others question his preparedness and political experience [2][3]. Solorza's campaign team, composed of passionate volunteers, is working tirelessly to collect signatures in public spaces such as parks and squares in Santiago [4].
The political landscape in Chile is currently polarized, with far-right candidate José Antonio Kast and far-left/communist candidate Jeannette Jara leading the race [1][2]. Solorza positions himself as a "point of balance" between the two extremes, emphasizing empathy, inclusion, healthcare, education, and public safety as his platform [1][2].
Despite the challenges, Solorza's campaign has gained significant attention on social media, with hashtags like #SolorzaPresidente trending on Twitter [5]. His candidacy has also been endorsed by several prominent figures in Chile's entertainment industry [6].
Chilean political analysts have expressed skepticism about Solorza's chances of winning the election, but they acknowledge his ability to spark important conversations about inclusion and disability rights [7]. If elected, Solorza's platform would focus on greater inclusion, improved health care and education, and enhanced security [8].
Solorza is often greeted by supporters, fans, and workers in Huechuraba, a quiet and green neighbourhood in Santiago [9]. Despite the odds, Solorza's candidacy is significant in raising awareness about people with Down syndrome and challenging societal prejudices [3][4].
Polls show Kast and Jara vying for the top two spots, suggesting they would face each other in a second-round runoff on December 14 [10]. While Solorza's chances of winning the election are low, his campaign continues to bring attention to the importance of inclusion and minority representation.
References: 1. El Mercurio 2. La Tercera 3. The Guardian 4. BBC News 5. Chile Today 6. La Cooperativa 7. El Mostrador 8. El Mercurio 9. La Tercera 10. Chile Today
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