Fiery right-wing populist Javier Milei wins Argentina’s presidency amid discontent over economy

In a remarkable turn of events, right-wing populist Javier Milei has secured victory in Argentina’s presidential election, signaling a significant shift in the country’s political landscape. Milei’s campaign centered on promises of a radical overhaul of the state, a message that resonated with a polarized electorate grappling with soaring inflation and increasing poverty.

Economy Minister Sergio Massa, representing the Peronist party, gracefully conceded defeat and extended his congratulations to Milei. The election results, with 95% of votes counted, revealed a substantial lead for Milei with 55.8%, while Massa secured 44.2%. This margin exceeded all poll predictions and marked the widest victory margin in Argentina since the return of democracy in 1983.

In the streets of Buenos Aires, jubilant supporters celebrated the victory, with car horns blaring and spontaneous gatherings in various neighborhoods. The atmosphere outside Milei’s party headquarters in downtown Buenos Aires was one of euphoria.

Milei’s triumph signifies a significant shift to the right in Argentina’s political landscape, elevating a novice lawmaker who initially gained prominence as a television commentator vehemently criticizing the established political elite. Lucas Romero, the head of Synopsis, a local political consulting firm, commented that this victory reflects the electorate’s weariness and discontent, evident in their protest vote for change.

Argentina has been grappling with a staggering inflation rate exceeding 140% and worsening poverty during Massa’s tenure. Milei’s proposed agenda aims to reduce the size of the state and combat inflation, drawing a sharp contrast with Massa’s warnings about potential negative consequences, particularly in public services, health, education, and welfare programs.

Massa’s campaign raised concerns about Milei’s libertarian policies, including the elimination of key ministries and a reduction in the state’s role, leading many voters to decide between what they perceived as the lesser of two undesirable choices. Andrei Roman, CEO of Brazil-based pollster Atlas Intel, noted that some voters reluctantly supported Milei out of frustration, fearing the continuation of economic challenges under Massa’s leadership.

Milei addressed some of the controversy surrounding his proposals during the campaign, assuring voters that he had no intentions of privatizing education or healthcare. However, his fiery rhetoric and passionate appeal to those struggling economically struck a chord with many Argentines, particularly among the younger demographic.

As Esteban Medina, a 26-year-old physical therapist, put it, “Money covers less and less each day. I’m a qualified individual, and my salary isn’t enough for anything.” María Gabriela Gaviola, a 63-year-old entrepreneur facing challenges due to rising material costs, expressed her desire for change, saying, “The productive sector of this country isn’t considered. How long can a country that doesn’t produce be OK?”

The election results highlight the deep division within Argentina, with Milei receiving both support and criticism. The campaign also exposed divisive stances on sensitive issues, such as Victoria Villaruel, Milei’s running mate, facing protests for controversial positions on Argentina’s historical human rights violations.

In his post-election remarks, Massa emphasized the need for dialogue and consensus to navigate Argentina toward a more promising future. The nation is now embarking on a new chapter under Milei’s leadership, and the world watches closely to see how his proposed changes will shape Argentina’s economic and political landscape in the coming years.

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More about Presidential Victory

• Javier Milei’s Profile
• Argentina’s Economic Challenges
• Sergio Massa and the Peronist Party
• Analysis of Milei’s Victory
• Campaign Controversies
• Public Response to Milei’s Message