Argentina Faces Decisive Runoff Election with Trump-Like Populist as Contender

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On Sunday, Argentina conducted a runoff election crucial for its future direction, with a choice between populist Javier Milei, often likened to former U.S. President Donald Trump, and Peronist party’s Sergio Massa, amidst escalating inflation and deepening poverty.

Javier Milei, initially known for his TV appearances, vies against Sergio Massa, the Economy Minister from the influential Peronist party. Argentina’s economy struggles under a staggering inflation rate exceeding 140% and increasing poverty levels, issues prevalent during Massa’s tenure. Milei, branding himself as an anarcho-capitalist, advocates for reducing the government’s size and controlling inflation. In contrast, Massa warns of the potential adverse effects of Milei’s approach.

This election has left many voters in a dilemma, choosing what they perceive as the lesser of two evils.

Additional Reports

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Lucas Romero, Synopsis’s director, remarked on the extraordinary nature of the election, highlighting the challenge for either candidate to secure a win under the current circumstances.

The voting process, relying on paper ballots, started at 8 a.m. and lasted for 10 hours, with initial results anticipated a few hours post-closure.

Milei’s journey from a critical TV figure to a lawmaker resonated with many Argentinians, especially young men frustrated by economic hardships. Esteban Medina, a 26-year-old from Ezeiza, expressed his financial struggles despite being qualified.

Meanwhile, Massa, a key figure in a widely disapproved administration, managed to lead in the first voting round, leveraging the Peronist party’s networks. His campaign cautioned against Milei’s libertarian policies, which could undermine public services and welfare programs. Massa also criticized Milei’s aggressive behavior and questioned his mental stability, notably during rallies where Milei brandished a chainsaw.

Voter Jenifer Pio expressed concerns over a potential Milei presidency, fearing a return to dictatorship and questioning his emotional and psychological stability.

Ana Iparraguirre from GBAO Strategies noted that Massa’s chances hinge on framing the election as a referendum on Milei’s suitability for presidency.

Massa, after casting his vote, emphasized the need for dialogue and consensus for Argentina’s future progress. Milei, countering Massa’s “campaign of fear,” retracted some controversial proposals, like relaxing gun control laws. He reassured in his final campaign ad about not privatizing education or health care.

María Gabriela Gaviola, a struggling entrepreneur, expressed her inclination towards trying something new, given the government’s lack of support for the productive sector.

Pre-election polls indicated a close race between Milei and Massa. The decision of voters who supported other first-round candidates, like Patricia Bullrich who endorsed Milei, will be pivotal.

Milei’s claims of potential electoral fraud, echoing those of Trump and Bolsonaro, have been disputed by experts and stirred debate among his supporters.

The election, marked by Milei’s allegations and the public’s divided reactions, underscores the deep political rifts within Argentina.

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More about Argentina runoff election

• Argentina’s Runoff Election Dynamics
• Economic Challenges in Argentina’s Politics
• Profiles of Argentine Presidential Candidates
• Milei’s Populist Campaign Strategies
• Argentina’s Political Landscape and Voter Sentiments