Argentines experienced a range of emotions on Monday after Javier Milei, an outsider with libertarian views, won the election over Peronist government rival Sergio Massa. Milei, who will assume office on Dec. 10, represents a significant shift for Argentina, which is grappling with high inflation, capital controls, increasing poverty, and a looming recession.
The former TV pundit, who some have likened to Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro, only recently entered politics but was able to harness voter anger at the status quo.
Analysts and citizens expressed a mixture of excitement and apprehension regarding Milei’s victory. Some hope for positive change, while others are cautious about what the future holds with a political novice at the helm.
Milei’s win brought jubilant crowds to the streets of Buenos Aires, with supporters gathering at the Obelisk to celebrate his victory.
Many citizens, like Leandro Boses, expressed delight at Milei’s win, with hopes that his economic policies will bring relief from the challenges they currently face due to inflation and currency controls.
Milei’s substantial victory over Peronist economy chief Massa reflected widespread frustration with the country’s economic woes.
Claudio Bernal, a pharmacist, is one of many who sees Milei’s win as a glimmer of hope for change. However, he also expressed the need for support from other political parties to achieve Milei’s proposed reforms.
Milei’s radical plans to reduce the size of the state will require substantial legislative support, which may be challenging given his party’s limited presence in Congress.
Actress Julia Eva Saggini expressed concerns about potential power struggles and disorganization within Milei’s government. She hopes that the opposition will provide a check on Milei’s more extreme ideas.
As Argentina awaits Milei’s assumption of office, citizens across the country are grappling with a mix of emotions as they anticipate what his leadership will bring.
(Reporting by Lucinda Elliott and Candelaria Grimberg, Editing by Rosalba O’Brien)
