Washington, DC - Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State: "The United States believes that the Bolivian people have the right to choose their leaders in free and fair elections. This right is enshrined in the Inter-American Democratic Charter and in the Bolivian constitution. We are therefore deeply concerned over the irregularities in the vote counting process of Bolivia’s October 20 election.

"The United States stands with our partners in the region and the OAS observers in calling for an accurate accounting of the votes cast, or if that is not feasible in the opinion of the OAS observer mission, a second round that is credible and transparent.

"In the interim, we call for calm and continued respect for the rule of law. The world is watching Bolivia’s institutions and leaders to ensure that the voice and will of the Bolivian people are honored."