UPDATE: Argentine President Javier Milei has just suffered a significant setback in the Buenos Aires provincial election, raising urgent questions about his political future. Despite his party, La Libertad Avanza, securing only 34% of the vote compared to the left-leaning Peronist opposition’s 47%, Milei is determined to push forward with his controversial economic agenda.
This election, held on September 3, is viewed as a critical test for Milei’s libertarian party ahead of the midterm elections scheduled for October 26, 2023. The results signal a possible erosion of support for Milei, who has positioned himself as a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump and a vocal advocate for radical economic reforms.
In a defiant address to supporters, Milei acknowledged the “clear defeat” but insisted there would be “no retreat in government policy.” He stated, “If we’ve made political mistakes, we’re going to internalize them, we’re going to modify our actions.” This statement reflects his commitment to austerity measures that have included severe cuts to public services and government jobs, yet have also led to a recent decline in inflation rates.
Milei’s administration has faced intense scrutiny, not only due to his economic policies but also amid a growing bribery scandal involving his sister. He dismissed these allegations as “the most rancid political tricks,” yet public frustration is mounting as protests against his government continue to escalate. Just days prior, Milei had to leave a rally early after demonstrators hurled objects at his vehicle.
With the midterm elections approaching, Milei must expand his party’s minority in the Congress to implement his radical reforms. The upcoming vote is poised to serve as a referendum on his leadership, making the stakes incredibly high as he seeks to transition Argentina from a country marked by repeated defaults to one capable of servicing its debts.
In response to the election results, Axel Kicillof, the left-leaning governor of Buenos Aires province, criticized Milei’s administration, emphasizing that the electorate’s message was clear: “Public works cannot be halted,” and “education, health care, science, and culture cannot be defunded.”
The midterms are set to be a crucial moment for Milei, as he faces widespread public discontent over high poverty rates and stagnant wages, despite some recent improvements in economic indicators. As Argentina prepares for this pivotal election, all eyes will be on whether Milei can rally support and regain ground after this significant electoral blow.
Stay tuned for developing updates as the situation unfolds.
