Topic: Rafael Correa

The Ecuadorian presidential runoff features pro-business incumbent Daniel Noboa against leftist challenger Luisa Gonzalez. Noboa, an ally of President Trump, has requested U.S. military assistance and the establishment of a base to fight drug cartels. Gonzalez, backed by former president Rafael Correa, advocates for social programs and opposes foreign military presence as a violation of sovereignty.

Climate scientist James Hansen and other activists wrote an open letter to President Rafael Correa of Ecuador, urging him not to drill for oil in the Amazon. Ecuador had previously offered to leave the oil in the ground if the international community provided $3.6 billion in compensation, but the initiative failed to attract sufficient funds. The hosts discuss the economic reality of poor nations choosing resource extraction over environmental preservation.