Argentina’s firebrand president, Javier Milei, is facing the toughest test of his political career as midterm elections approach amid a storm of scandals, economic chaos, and growing public unrest. Once hailed as the radical outsider who would slash government waste and revive Argentina’s battered economy, Milei now finds himself battling plummeting approval ratings and fierce opposition—even from former supporters.
Scandal Erupts: Milei’s Inner Circle Under Fire
The latest blow to Milei’s credibility comes from a bribery scandal involving his sister and chief of staff, Karina Milei. Audio recordings surfaced in August, allegedly implicating Karina in accepting bribes from a government medicine supplier—worth
3% of their contract. Milei’s response was erratic: first silence, then denial, then claims the tape was an AI-generated fake, and finally a bizarre rhetorical question—“Would you take 3 percent when you could take 100 percent?”
Polls show most Argentinians believe the allegations, and Milei was forced to evacuate a rally after opponents pelted him with stones. The scandal has fueled a wave of protests, with demonstrators demanding “decent salaries” and an end to pension cuts.
Economic Crisis Deepens: Trump’s $20 Billion Lifeline
Argentina’s economy is in freefall, with inflation soaring and the peso in crisis. Milei’s radical austerity measures—slashing public spending and deregulating the economy—have hit retirees and workers hardest. In a dramatic move, the Trump administration approved a
$20 billion bailout for Argentina, hoping to stabilize markets and support Milei’s government.
But the lifeline has done little to quell public anger. “If he hasn’t done more, it’s because he doesn’t have the money,” said Alejandra Paso, a retiree who still supports Milei despite feeling the pinch of his budget cuts.
Political Power Play: Will Milei Survive the Midterms?
The upcoming legislative elections are crucial. Milei’s party, La Libertad Avanza, holds just 37 of 257 seats in the lower house, forcing him to rely on shaky alliances. Without a stronger presence in Congress, Milei warns, his reform agenda will stall.
His campaign rallies have taken on a rock concert vibe, with thunderous music and passionate supporters waving purple flags. But the mood is tense. Milei has had to cancel rallies after hostile crowds hurled insults and stones, and his party’s top congressional candidate withdrew over ties to an indicted drug trafficker.
Public Sentiment: From Hope to Disillusionment
Milei’s approval ratings have dropped from
50% to around
40% in recent months. Many Argentinians who once saw him as a beacon of change now feel betrayed. “I had hope, today I don’t even have that,” said Leonardo Gresso, a street vendor who voted for Milei in 2023 but plans to abstain this time.
Protesters in Rosario, Argentina’s grain-exporting hub, marched with signs calling Milei “persona non grata” and lamenting widespread hunger despite the city’s wealth. “We see the ships leaving the port loaded up with goods and wonder how we will eat tomorrow,” said activist Eduardo Delmonte.
What’s Next: Cabinet Shakeup and Uncertain Future
Milei has hinted at possible cabinet changes after the midterms, signaling a potential reset if his party suffers losses. But with his anti-establishment brand tarnished and economic woes mounting, the president’s future looks increasingly uncertain.
Key Takeaways:- Milei’s presidency is under siege from corruption scandals, economic crisis, and eroding public support.
- The midterm elections will determine whether he can push through his radical reforms or face gridlock.
- Even loyal supporters are questioning whether Milei can deliver the change he promised.
As Argentina heads to the polls, the world watches to see if Milei’s libertarian experiment can survive—or if the country will demand a new direction.
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