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By: ATN News
In a seismic political shift, right-wing libertarian Javier Milei emerged victorious in Argentina's presidential election, securing over 55% of the votes, according to provisional results. His triumph represents a departure from the political mainstream and promises a new era for the country, grappling with triple-digit inflation, a looming recession, and rising poverty.
Milei's opponent, Peronist Economy Minister Sergio Massa, conceded the run-off vote even before official results were announced, acknowledging Milei as the elected president for the next four years. Milei's ascent, likened to the anti-establishment campaign style of former U.S. President Donald Trump, underscores the global resonance of populist movements.
The provisional results, based on more than 94% of the votes counted, showcase Milei's extraordinary rise from a political outsider and former TV pundit. His promise to "break up with the status quo" resonated with voters fed up with Argentina's economic challenges. Notably, Milei's campaign pledge to dollarize Argentina's economy, an unprecedented move for a country of its size, has sparked both curiosity and concern.
Milei, a social conservative with ties to the American right, opposes abortion rights, dismisses climate change as a "lie of socialism," and advocates for significant government spending cuts. In response to his victory, former President Trump expressed pride, stating, "Make Argentina great again!"
Drawing parallels with Trump's "Drain the swamp" slogan, Milei's supporters passionately chant "¡¡Qué se vayan todos!!" or "May they all leave!" reflecting their frustration with politicians on both sides of the spectrum. Argentina's left currently holds power, following a period of rule by the right from 2015 to 2019.
Beyond his controversial plan for dollarization, Milei's political program includes slashing regulations on gun control, transferring authority over the penitentiary system from civilians to the military, supporting private education with public funds, and even considering the privatization of the health sector.
Milei's victory has stirred international reactions, with former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro endorsing his candidacy. Leftist leaders, such as Brazil's Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Colombia's Gustavo Petro, departed from the tradition of non-intervention to back Massa in the run-up to the election.
While Milei's win signals a profound rupture in Argentina's political landscape, it also raises questions about the feasibility of his radical proposals. The president-elect faces significant challenges, including empty government and central bank coffers, a hefty debt program with the International Monetary Fund, inflation nearing 150%, and complex capital controls.
As the world watches, Milei's unexpected political ascent will be scrutinized for potential implications on the resurgence of far-right populism in the region. His success has already sparked debates about the future of Argentina's economic policies, trade relationships, and international alliances. The young and disillusioned voters, in particular, see Milei as a beacon of change, while critics fear the potential for social unrest and the uncertain consequences of his untested economic strategies.