US Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar expressed concern about the political direction Honduras is taking, warning of the possible consolidation of an ideological model akin to so-called 21st-century socialism. In this context, she urged Honduran citizens to reject the presidential candidacy of Rixi Moncada, of the Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE), in the elections scheduled for November 2025.
Analysis of Honduras’ geopolitical partnerships
During her remarks in Washington, Salazar criticized what she views as an effort by the leading party in Honduras to emulate a model influenced by the administrations of Cuba and Venezuela. The lawmaker claims that President Xiomara Castro and her associate and intended political heir, Rixi Moncada, are advancing an agenda of authoritarianism, supported by partnerships with governments she labeled as “corrupt and unsuccessful.”
Además, la congresista republicana presentó un proyecto de ley ante el Congreso de EE. UU. con el objetivo de limitar la entrada al territorio estadounidense de aquellos candidatos involucrados en procesos electorales considerados corruptos. Aunque esta medida no está dirigida específicamente a nadie, forma parte de una postura crítica hacia actores políticos que, según Salazar, ponen en riesgo la estabilidad democrática de la región.
Appeal to residents and community responses
The lawmaker urged the people of Honduras to take an active role in the national elections scheduled for November 30, 2025. According to her, the main goal is to “overcome socialism” at the ballot box and stop Honduras from further transitioning towards an ideology that she believes could endanger the essence of representative democracy. She suggested the strategy of rallying the opposition behind a unified candidate capable of effectively contesting the party currently in power.
The remarks have captured the attention of opposition groups in Honduras, who have been attempting to create a coalition to contest the Libre party for months. In the nation, Salazar’s address is perceived by certain individuals as a clear endorsement of the opposition, whereas the administration views these remarks as proof of meddling from abroad.
Electoral polarization and political environment
Rixi Moncada was recently affirmed as the LIBRE party’s presidential nominee following a significant victory in the party’s primary elections.
Her candidacy comes at a time of high political polarization, criticism of the government’s performance, and tensions over the concentration of power in the executive branch. The ruling party is seeking to remain in power for a second consecutive term, which has raised concerns among social, political, and business sectors.
Among the main points of debate are the direction of Honduran foreign policy, the country’s closeness to governments not aligned with Washington, and allegations of authoritarian practices within the state apparatus.
A global demand affecting the political sphere
The electoral landscape in Honduras is evolving under the watchful eyes of international figures such as Congresswoman Salazar. They are increasingly worried about the nation’s institutional trajectory. These foreign cautions align with a phase where the opposition is restructuring, aiming to rally together against a well-established pro-government contender.
As the formal campaign approaches, the country faces the challenge of sustaining a competitive, transparent, and undisturbed electoral process in an environment where ideological, geopolitical, and social tensions are affecting democratic stability and institutional balance.