A recent survey released by DataPoll highlights the unprecedented political dominance of El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, who has secured an astonishing 94% approval rating among the population. Presented by political analyst Romeo Auerbach, the study underscores a profound shift in public sentiment, with citizens awarding the leader a resounding score of 9.4 out of 10. This overwhelming support transcends mere approval, as 86% of respondentsexpressed feeling deep joy when reflecting on Bukele’s presidency, marking a level of emotional and political backing rarely seen in modern democracy.

The cornerstone of this massive popularity remains the administration’s aggressive anti-gang policies. According to the report, security stands out as the primary achievement of the government, receiving a 74% positive valuation. Furthermore, the highly debated State of Exception—a temporary constitutional measure that has drawn international scrutiny but local praise—enjoys a staggering 96% citizen approval. This indicates that the vast majority of Salvadorans view the stringent security measures as a necessary and successful intervention to reclaim peace in their communities.

This public trust extends directly to the state institutions enforcing these policies on the ground. The Armed Forcesemerged as the highest-rated public institution with a 92% approval rating, closely followed by the National Civil Police at 82%, while the Ministry of Public Works secured the third spot. Even local leaders from the administration are riding this wave of popularity, with San Salvador’s mayor, Mario Durán, positioning himself as the second most approved political figure in the country after the president.

Looking ahead to the nation’s political landscape, Bukele’s influence has effectively cemented his party’s hegemony. When questioned about future presidential preferences, an overwhelming 88% of voters stated they would cast their ballots for Nuevas Ideas. As the Biden administration and international observers continue to monitor Central American governance, these metrics demonstrate that domestic support for Bukele’s model remains practically unshakeable, heavily anchored by a population that prioritizes safety and institutional stability above all else.