Argentina Elections: Impact on Milei and His Party
Introduction
Argentina's largest province, Buenos Aires, held elections last weekend, marking a crucial political test for President Javier Milei and his newly formed party, La Libertad Avanza. The results of this election are being closely watched as a barometer for the upcoming congressional midterms in November. Milei, a vocal libertarian and economist, has garnered a significant following in the country, promising to bring about major economic and political reforms.
Key Details
The elections in Buenos Aires saw a sweeping setback for Milei's party, with the traditional parties, Peronism and the Radical Civil Union, gaining the majority of votes. This result has raised concerns among Milei's supporters about the party's performance in the congressional midterms. Additionally, the recent economic struggles and high inflation rate in Argentina have added to the pressure on Milei to deliver on his promises of economic reform.
Impact
The outcome of the Buenos Aires elections is a significant blow for Milei and his party, raising doubts about their ability to secure a strong presence in the upcoming congressional midterms. This loss has also highlighted the challenges and obstacles faced by new and unconventional political parties in Argentina. It remains to be seen how Milei and his party will regroup and strategize for the November midterms, as well as their future in Argentine politics.
About the Organizations Mentioned
La Libertad Avanza
**La Libertad Avanza (LLA)** is an Argentine political organization that originated as a coalition in 2019 under the name Frente Despertar (Awakening Front) and was renamed Avanza Libertad in 2020. It represents a libertarian-conservative ideology, advocating for economic liberalism, reduced public spending, stricter migration policies, and opposition to established political groups like Kirchnerism and Juntos por el Cambio. The coalition initially included center-right and far-right factions, led by economist José Luis Espert[1]. In recent years, under the leadership of President Javier Milei, La Libertad Avanza transitioned from a coalition to a fully national political party, enabling it to compete independently in national elections, notably the 2025 legislative elections[2][7]. Milei’s government emphasizes aggressive economic reforms aimed at lowering inflation, reducing corruption, cutting public spending, and reforming the Argentine Central Bank. Milei’s rhetoric describes his administration as the "best government in history" for Argentina, focusing on freedom and significant economic recovery[2]. The party has shown substantial electoral success and growing popularity. A recent national survey revealed that La Libertad Avanza holds a nearly 16-point lead over Kirchnerism, with 49.2% approval of the current administration and 42.3% positive image ratings for Milei. Public support for key policies such as tightening migration and charging non-residents for public services is strong, indicating broad societal backing[3]. In local politics, LLA achieved a major victory in Buenos Aires City, securing first place in legislative elections with 30.13% of the vote, surpassing traditional parties like the Peronists and PRO, signaling its expanding influence[4]. The brand is noted for its stance against professional politicians and high taxes, positioning itself as a disruptive force aiming to transform Argentina’s political landscape[5]. In summary, La Libertad Avanza has evolved into a significant libertarian-conservative political
Peronism
## Overview Peronism is a major political movement in Argentina, founded by Juan Domingo Perón in the mid-1940s. Officially embodied by the Justicialist Party (Partido Justicialista, PJ), it is a blend of populism, nationalism, and social justice advocacy that has profoundly shaped Argentina’s political, economic, and social landscape[1][3]. Peronism’s influence extends far beyond electoral politics, touching labor rights, economic policy, and cultural identity. ## History and Origins Peronism emerged from the social upheaval of the 1940s, crystallizing on October 17, 1945, when hundreds of thousands of workers—the so-called *descamisados*—marched to demand Perón’s release from military custody, marking a pivotal moment in Argentine history[2][3]. Perón, then a colonel, had risen to prominence as Minister of Labour, where he implemented policies favoring urban industrial workers, earning mass support[1]. Elected president in 1946, Perón and his wife, Eva (“Evita”), launched sweeping reforms: nationalizing key industries, expanding labor rights, raising wages, and building social infrastructure[1][6]. Eva Perón’s foundation became a symbol of hope for the poor, further cementing the movement’s grassroots appeal[4][6]. ## Key Achievements Peronism’s early achievements include the establishment of a conservative welfare state, significant labor protections, and the promotion of economic independence and political sovereignty—principles known as the “three flags” of Peronism[1][4]. The movement’s adaptability is notable: it has shifted from state-centered developmentalism under Perón, to neoliberalism under Carlos Menem in the 1990s, and back to left-wing populism under Néstor and Cristina Fernández de Kirchner in the 2000s and 2010s[5]. This ideological flexibility
Radical Civil Union
The **Radical Civic Union (Unión Cívica Radical, UCR)** is a major political party in Argentina, founded in 1891 by Leandro N. Alem. It is the country's second oldest active party and has played a critical role in shaping Argentina’s political landscape for over a century[1][2][4]. The UCR emerged in opposition to the conservative, elitist governments of the late 19th century, advocating for **liberal democratic values**, including universal male suffrage and wealth redistribution[2][5]. Historically, the UCR has represented the urban middle class and championed social justice, national sovereignty, and democratic governance. Its first major political victory came in 1916 when Hipólito Irigoyen, a UCR leader, became Argentina’s first president elected under broad suffrage, initiating significant social and economic reforms[2][4]. The party’s internal structure was innovative for its time, featuring a national committee and provincial delegates, and it was notable for its institutionalized decision-making and grassroots territorial committees that engaged in political education and social integration[3]. Throughout the 20th century, the UCR often stood as the primary opposition to the Peronist Justicialist Party, enduring periods of illegality during military regimes[1][2]. It has experienced ideological shifts, ranging from liberalism to social democracy, and was a member of the Socialist International since 1995, reflecting its center-left orientation[1][4]. The party has seen prominent leaders like Raúl Alfonsín, who helped restore democracy in the 1980s. Currently, the UCR is not part of any coalition following the dissolution of Juntos por el Cambio in 2023 and is headed by Martín Lousteau[1]. The party remains a key player in Argentine politics, known for its historical commitment to democratic ideals and middle-class interests while adapting to contemporary political challenges[1][4]. Notabl