The Foreign Desk Is Milei’s chainsaw cutting through?
Nov 1, 2025
Vera Bergengruen, a national security reporter at The Wall Street Journal, dives into Javier Milei's surprising surge in Argentina’s midterms, highlighting voter desperation for change. Paola Diosquez-Reis, an economics associate director at S&P Global, examines Milei's radical economic policies and their impact on inflation and living standards. Historian Ernesto Seaman frames Milei's rise within Argentina's political history, suggesting his approach represents both a radical break and familiar emotional politics. Together, they explore the future of Argentina under Milei's leadership.
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Midterms Gave Milei Real Momentum
- Javier Milei's party roughly doubled its seats, giving him a stronger parliamentary position.
- The result surprised observers and allows Milei to pursue his agenda more forcefully.
Low Turnout Favoured Committed Voters
- Low turnout meant voting was selective and benefited committed Milei supporters.
- Many voters preferred change over returning to previous populist policies despite current hardships.
Election Shifted Into A Personal Referendum
- The election became a referendum on Milei personally due to late events like his Washington visit and conditional US support.
- Voters chose to "stick it out" with him out of desperation for change.