Argentina’s President Javier Milei has celebrated a decisive victory in the nation’s midterm elections, solidifying his mandate for the radical spending cuts and free-market reforms that have characterized his presidency. His party, La Libertad Avanza, secured nearly 41% of the vote, a substantial leap from their previous standing, gaining control of 13 out of 24 Senate seats and a significant portion of the lower house seats contested.
This electoral success is expected to ease the path for Milei’s agenda of slashing state expenditure and deregulating the economy. The outcome drew praise from international allies, including former US President Donald Trump, who commented, “He’s making us all look good.” Earlier, Trump had signaled that substantial US financial aid could hinge on Milei maintaining political momentum.
Milei himself echoed a “Make Argentina Great Again” sentiment, drawing parallels to his US counterpart, which drew both cheers from supporters and criticism regarding foreign interference. “We must consolidate the path of reform we have embarked upon to turn Argentina’s history around once and for all,” he declared to jubilant crowds outside a Buenos Aires hotel.
Before this election, Milei’s party held a mere seven Senate seats and 37 in the lower house, presenting considerable obstacles to his reform agenda. Key legislation aimed at increasing funding for state universities, individuals with disabilities, and children’s healthcare had been overturned by opposition lawmakers, highlighting the challenges he faced.
Supporters expressed optimism, with one young voter, Dionisio, noting, “Milei didn’t have 15% of Congress in his favour. Now, with many more deputies and senators, he’ll be able to change the country in a year.” Another voter, Ezequiel, shared his hope for a better future: “Now, thank God, freedom has won. We want our daughter to grow up in this beautiful country. What happened in previous years is regrettable.”
However, the victory is not without its critics. Many citizens voiced concerns about the impact of Milei’s austerity measures. Juliana, who works with children with disabilities, fears for the future of support laws, while Veronica, a retired police officer, lamented the pension cuts and the broader economic hardship. “You see a lot of poverty,” she stated. “It’s very hard: for retirees, for people with children with disabilities, for young people. There’s a lot of unemployment. Many factories have closed.”
Milei’s administration has focused on curbing hyperinflation and reducing the fiscal deficit, actions that have been applauded by some financial markets. However, critics point to rising unemployment, declining manufacturing output, strained public services, and a looming recession as significant downsides. Concerns have also been raised about the nation’s dwindling foreign reserves and upcoming debt repayments.
The election saw a record low turnout, reflecting a broader public weariness with the political class. Despite this, Milei’s performance suggests a continued rejection of the previous Peronist economic model, which he blames for the country’s long-standing economic woes.
Ultimately, this election provides Milei with a stronger hand to implement his ambitious, albeit controversial, economic agenda, potentially reshaping Argentina’s future for years to come.