While many in the United States are posturing for who they will vote for  in November’s presidential election, Salvadorans residing here in the States are more concerned with what will happen in Sunday’s, Feb. 4, election in their home country.

Many expect Nayib Bukele to be re-elected, despite this violating El Salvador’s Constitution to extend a presidency. But, the new ability for those from El Salvador to vote online from the U.S. may prove to be a game changer. “It’s quite exciting knowing that others who aren’t in El Salvador can now have an opinion from now on–even if you aren’t in the country,” share sophomore Bladimir Medrano-Lopez, who is a Salvadoran.  “It also helps out the ones in El Salvador,” he continues, “because they get a perspective from other countries that have more thoughts and opinions on the issues.” 

Medrano-Lopez goes on to say that Bukele, who has been in office since 2019, is noted for cracking down on violence in El Salvador, making him very popular with some. However, this New Idea party candidate is also condemned by others for the human rights violations that have occurred as a result of the crackdown.

Voting online will continue until 5:30 p.m. Saturday, which means that those who are capable of voting still have time to make their voice heard across the continent into Central America. By Monday, though, the entire world will hear the results of the people.