U.S. Republican Senator Bernie Moreno will oversee Colombia’s upcoming presidential election on May 31, a decision that has sparked immediate reactions due to his history of public criticism of President Gustavo Petro’s administration and reported ties with Colombia’s conservative opposition.

Moreno, born in Bogota and having emigrated to the United States as a youth, built a business career before entering politics. He was elected to the U.S. Senate with support from former President Donald Trump, becoming one of the most visible Latino voices within the Republican Party. His policy agenda emphasizes conservative economic and foreign policy positions that have repeatedly clashed with left-leaning governments.

His decision to serve as an international election observer in Colombia comes amid a climate of distrust over electoral guarantees and open tensions between his administration and President Petro’s government. Moreno has consistently raised concerns about potential irregularities in Colombia’s elections and has publicly warned of risks to the integrity of the voting process.

“The elections have to be free, secure so that the entire people trust them,” said Senator Bernie Moreno regarding his role. “We’re going to go to observe, maybe other senators will come with me.”

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, a former member of the left-wing guerrilla group M-19, has previously warned that U.S. pressure on Latin American leaders could lead to a “rebellion” against Washington’s influence, alleging that sanctions are used as political tools by the U.S. government.

The election occurs amid deep polarization in Colombia and allegations of irregularities, raising questions about how the country will navigate its democratic future.