El Salvador poverty will create problems for Bukele

Significance President Nayib Bukele is highly popular, having implemented hard-line security policies that have reduced murder rates dramatically. He was re-elected in February by a landslide, but economic issues could erode his support during his second term. Impacts Failure to reduce poverty levels could increase the likelihood of social problems such as a resurgence of gang activity. A continued lack of opportunities will encourage Salvadorans to keep emigrating, mostly to the United States. Short-term fixes to reduce immediate fiscal pressures will store up problems for the future.