Argentina’s Milei finishes speech after losing PBA election

Argentina’s Milei finishes speech after losing PBA election

President Javier Milei's government is set to face its first major electoral test in Buenos Aires Province this weekend, following a series of challenges and controversies. The vote, scheduled for September 2, 2025, will determine the provincial lawmakers, local councillors, and school board members, and is expected to set the tone for the upcoming nationwide midterm elections in October [1].

The election comes at a critical moment for Milei's administration, which has been rocked by a bribery scandal at the ANDIS national disability agency, allegedly implicating his sister and closest ally, Karina Milei [1]. This scandal has added to the political pressure on the government and could influence voter turnout.

Voters in Buenos Aires Province will have the opportunity to cast their ballots at 1,934 polling stations across the region, with a 6pm cut-off time. However, absenteeism is expected to be a significant factor, as nine of the ten provinces that decoupled their elections from the national midterms have already voted this year, with an average turnout of just 58 percent [1]. The highest turnout was recorded in Corrientes at 72.4 percent, while the lowest was in Santa Fe at 46 percent.

Governor Axel Kicillof, a key Peronist leader, has expressed his belief that abstention would be a victory for Milei, potentially leading to further austerity measures and labor reforms. "Those who don’t go to vote should consider how Milei will interpret the result: if it favors him, he’ll continue with austerity, labor reform, and the chainsaw. If he loses, it will be a huge blow," Kicillof said [1].

The election also follows the Argentine Congress' unprecedented overturn of a presidential veto issued by Milei, raising the stakes for the libertarian leader. The Senate, controlled by the opposition, voted 63-7 to overrule Milei's veto of a bill that increases spending and protections for people with disabilities [2]. This move underscores the growing opposition to Milei's austerity measures and fiscal policies.

Despite these challenges, Milei has managed to bring down stubbornly high inflation and produce a budget surplus since taking office in December 2023. However, his austerity measures have left many vulnerable Argentines, particularly the elderly, worse off than before [1].

The upcoming elections in Buenos Aires Province and the midterm elections in October will be crucial for Milei's ability to continue his policies. With a small minority in Congress, the libertarian leader needs to increase his seats to maintain his agenda. The results of these elections will provide valuable insights into the public's support for Milei's economic reforms and austerity measures.

References:
[1] https://www.batimes.com.ar/news/argentina/mother-of-all-battles-milei-faces-first-true-electoral-test-in-buenos-aires-province.phtml
[2] https://www.aol.com/news/argentina-lawmakers-overturn-milei-veto-202645255.html