Tegucigalpa, Honduras — The Honduran presidential election ended in a technical tie between businessman Nasry Asfura, backed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, and rightwing TV host Salvador Nasralla. A preliminary count showed Asfura ahead by just 515 votes, prompting the National Electoral Council (CNE) to launch a manual recount.

Trump Backs Candidate, Claims Electoral Interference

Trump, who has increasingly sought to influence Latin American elections, accused the Honduran electoral body of “trying to change the results” and warned of consequences if the count is altered. He urged that “hundreds of thousands of Hondurans must have their votes counted,” posting his statements on Truth Social.

His endorsement mirrors recent U.S. involvement in regional politics, such as supporting Javier Milei in Argentina, and comes amid threats to cut aid to Honduras and other countries if U.S.-favored candidates lose.

Stakes for Honduras

The election marks a potential shift away from the leftist ruling party, which trailed far behind in early results. A conservative victory could increase U.S. influence in a nation previously drawing closer to China.

Trump’s support also included a promise of a pardon for former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, convicted in the U.S. of leading one of the “largest and most violent drug trafficking conspiracies in the world.”

Public Reaction

The Honduran public is divided. Some hope Trump’s involvement will improve immigration prospects and U.S. aid, while others view it as meddling in domestic affairs. Concerns over drug trafficking, violence, and poverty — major national issues — were largely absent from the campaign.

The slow vote count has raised fears of unrest, as both parties have preemptively alleged election fraud. Final results may take days, and municipal and legislative races are also shaping up to reflect the country’s deep political polarization.