Why Latin America’s Political Shift Matters for America

A political transformation unfolding across Latin America could have important implications for economic freedom, security and the United States’ relationship with its neighbors.

In a new op-ed published by the Midland Daily News, Northwood University Associate Professor Dr. Alex Tokarev and Northwood alumna Kristin Tokarev examine what they describe as a growing rejection of socialist policies across the region — and the opportunity for market-oriented reforms to strengthen both Latin American nations and their relationship with the United States.

The authors point to recent political changes across countries including Argentina and Colombia, where new leaders have campaigned on reducing government intervention, strengthening public safety and creating greater space for entrepreneurship and private enterprise.

But the Tokarevs caution that electoral victories alone do not guarantee greater freedom.

“A right-wing victory does not automatically produce a freer society,” they write, arguing that lasting progress depends on institutions that protect individual rights, property rights, independent courts and the rule of law.

They contend that the United States has a significant interest in the outcome. A freer, more prosperous and more secure Latin America, they argue, could produce stronger trading partners, reduce pressures that contribute to migration and limit the influence of hostile foreign powers in the Western Hemisphere.

Dr. Alex Tokarev is an associate professor of economics and philosophy at Northwood University whose teaching and scholarship explore economics, free enterprise and individual liberty. Kristin Tokarev, a Midland, Michigan, native and 2023 graduate of Northwood’s DeVos Graduate School, serves as a producer for Stossel TV.

Their full op-ed, “Latin America’s turn to the Right is good for America,” is available through the Midland Daily News.