On February 5, Freire presented his resignation before Congress, which decided to elect a new president of the Republic on February 13. The Congress elected Freire as the new president with 37 votes, and Francisco Antonio Pinto as vice president with 27 votes, from a total of 48 deputies present. Congress knew Freire would resign after Pinto's arrival in Santiago, so the election was only a sign of appreciation towards him.
Pinto's election, although won with a scant majority, signified a great victory for the liberals.