Overview

• Centrist Rodrigo Paz faces conservative ex-president Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga in a tight race, with some polls showing Quiroga narrowly ahead before voting that is compulsory for about eight million people.
• Polling stations operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time with preliminary results expected tonight, and the winner is scheduled to take office on November 8.
• The country confronts severe dollar and fuel shortages and roughly 23–25% inflation, with the boliviano trading at about half its official rate on the black market.
• Both candidates pledge market reforms and closer ties with Washington, as Paz touts a $1.5 billion cooperation plan with the U.S. while Quiroga seeks a roughly $12 billion multilateral bailout.
• Fuel subsidy cuts and state overhauls carry high social and political risks, with unions warning of unrest, no clear congressional majority for the next president, and Evo Morales retaining influence despite an arrest warrant.