Chile’s presidential race: Sebastian Pinera versus Eduardo Frei in a January runoff

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Conservative billionaire Sebastian Pinera and former President Eduardo Frei received the most votes in Sunday’s presidential election in Chile but neither garnered enough to win outright, setting the stage for a runoff Jan. 17.

As expected, Pinera received about 44% of the vote, short of the 50%-plus needed to avoid a runoff. Frei received nearly 30%.

The country’s constitution prevents President Michelle Bachelet, who remains highly popular, from seeking a second four-year term.

For more on the election by Times special correspondent Chris Kraul, click here.

-- Efrain Hernandez Jr.