Argentinian President Javier Milei’s party, La Libertad Avanza, pulled off a surprising triumph in Sunday’s legislative elections, winning 40.84 percent of votes for Congress compared with 31.64 percent for the opposition Peronist coalition, based on a count of over 90 percent of ballots. The victory marks Milei’s first major national test since taking office two years ago and strengthens his mandate to pursue sweeping economic reforms.
Celebrating at the party’s headquarters, Milei described the result as a “turning point” for Argentina, asserting that the electorate had rejected decades of Peronist rule and chosen “progress over decadence.” He vowed to advance free-market reforms, deep austerity measures, and other radical changes to reshape the economy.
The election outcome significantly boosts Milei’s legislative power. La Libertad Avanza tripled its representation, winning 101 of 127 contested seats in the lower Chamber of Deputies and 20 of 24 seats in the Senate. This strong showing ensures the president can uphold vetoes, block impeachment efforts, and push through ambitious tax and labor reforms.
One of the most notable results came from Buenos Aires province, a long-standing Peronist stronghold, where Milei’s party rebounded from defeat in last month’s local elections to run nearly even with the opposition. The unexpected shift highlights growing support for Milei’s libertarian agenda among voters frustrated with inflation, austerity measures, and political scandals.
Milei’s government has faced significant economic challenges, including a recent currency crisis that prompted U.S. intervention and market panic. While inflation has dropped dramatically—from 289 percent in April 2024 to 32 percent last month—cost-of-living pressures remain high, and unemployment has risen. Controversies, including bribery allegations against Milei’s sister, have also tested his image as an anti-corruption crusader.
The U.S. Trump administration has backed Milei with a bailout potentially worth $40 billion, including a $20 billion currency swap and a proposed $20 billion debt facility, though support was contingent on electoral success. Milei’s decisive victory now secures continued international and domestic backing for his controversial economic agenda.
