Understanding Populism in Ecuador: How the Ecuadorian Population Perceives Presidents Rafael Correa and Lenín Moreno

Abstract

This article explores the perception of Ecuadorian population concerning the political style of Presidents Rafael Correa and Lenín Moreno and their links to populism, one of the most interesting features of the Ecuadorian political arena. The analysis is based on a survey designed and applied by the authors at a national level. The quantitative data was interpreted using linear multiple regression models, to understand which of the variables analyzed can explain the perception of the interviewees. The results were extrapolated by using a descriptive statistical analysis (means, standard deviation and correlation matrix). The article shows that a difference between Correa and Moreno’s styles exists and this difference is clearly perceived by Ecuadorian population. While populist features are strongly identified in Correa’s political style, they are less remarked in Moreno’s rhetoric and action. This difference marks a discontinuity in the use of populism in the political style of the two presidents.