Summary: In the year since President Nayib Bukele marched soldiers into El Salvador’s legislative assembly, his critics say the leader’s threat to democracy has only grown. Now, as legislative elections on Feb. 28 promise Bukele a long-awaited majority, there are fears about what that could mean for checks and balances. In the latest episode of the AQ Podcast, guest host Brendan O’Boyle speaks to lawyer and researcher Claudia Umaña about the election’s stakes, Bukele’s resilient support, and the implications of a new administration in Washington. Guests: -Claudia Umaña is vice president of the Salvadoran Foundation for Economic and Social Development (FUSADES) -Brendan O’Boyle is senior editor of Americas Quarterly Supplemental Reading: "Surprise: El Salvador’s Anti-Corruption Commission Is Alive. But Can It Succeed?" by Noah Bullock and Chuck Call (https://www.americasquarterly.org/article/surprise-el-salvadors-anti-corruption-commission-is-alive-but-can-it-succeed/) "Behind Nayib Bukele’s 'Shocking' Turn" by Brendan O'Boyle (https://www.americasquarterly.org/article/behind-nayib-bukeles-shocking-turn/) "Q&A: Why El Salvador’s Crisis Is Different – and Worrying" by Brian Winter (https://www.americasquarterly.org/article/qa-why-el-salvadors-crisis-is-different-and-worrying/)
