Is El Salvador’s dominant political force a party or a cult of personality?

Countries & Cities · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Nuevas Ideas rose from a social media movement to absolute power in El Salvador in just a few years. By rejecting traditional ideological labels and centering everything on founder Nayib Bukele, the party has reshaped the nation's legislature, judiciary, and municipal structure, leaving observers to debate its true nature.

Founded by then-mayor Nayib Bukele in October 2017, Nuevas Ideas was born from a desire to dismantle the long-standing dominance of the country's two primary political blocs. Although the party was not registered in time for the 2019 presidential race, Bukele utilized its branding while running under the banner of a different organization. His victory marked the first time in three decades that a president from outside the traditional establishment took office.

The party’s ascent to dominance was rapid. By the 2021 legislative elections, it secured a supermajority, which it immediately leveraged to replace key judicial figures and the attorney general. This consolidation continued through 2023, when the legislature reduced the number of municipal governments from 262 to 44 and cut legislative seats from 84 to 60. Supporters argue these changes improve efficiency and wealth distribution, while critics describe them as a calculated power grab.

Nuevas Ideas defies standard political categorization, explicitly rejecting left-wing and right-wing labels in favor of a self-described Third Way. While the party statutes emphasize democratic and inclusive values, analysts often characterize it as a populist, anti-establishment, or even authoritarian entity. Many observers suggest that the organization functions less like a traditional party and more as a vehicle for Bukele’s personal agenda, with officials united primarily by their loyalty to him.

The party’s influence extends beyond domestic policy, utilizing a robust digital presence to rally supporters and communicate directly with the public. Despite controversies—including allegations of secret negotiations with criminal gangs and internal disputes over candidate selection—the party maintains overwhelming electoral support. As of 2019, it claimed over 500,000 members, and in the 2024 elections, Bukele secured a landslide re-election, cementing the party's control over the nation's political future.

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