In a stunning upset, Javier Milei, an economist and leader of the Liberty Advances Party, has been elected as the new President of Argentina. Milei, who describes his vision as “liberal libertarianism,” defeated the far-left Peronista Party, which has held power for over fifty years. The Peronist party, led by former Economy Minister Sergio Massa, conceded defeat even before the preliminary results were released.
Argentina's new President is Javier Milei. A classical -liberal he is smeared as far-right by socialists.
An aficionado of Milton Friedman & Friedrich Von Hayek the chainsaw is a euphemism for cutting the size of govt.
What's the weather like in Buenos Aires this time of year? pic.twitter.com/IxAgw6iTaI
— David Atherton (@DaveAtherton20) November 20, 2023
Argentina’s new president is already making waves with his bold promises to shake up the government. Milei, known for his love of Milton Friedman and Friedrich Von Hayek, plans to use a chainsaw as a euphemism for cutting down the size of the bloated Argentinian government. He has been highly critical of the “political caste” that has controlled the country for decades, calling them “useless and parasitic.”
This election is a rebuke against the current state of Argentina, with its sky-high inflation rate and widespread poverty. Milei has captured the attention of younger Argentinians with his bombastic style and social media savvy, much like former President Donald Trump in the United States. However, he faces an uphill battle in Congress, as his Liberty Advances Party only holds a small block of seats. Milei will need to work with the Peronists and the center-right Macri/Bullrich contingent in order to achieve his policy objectives.
This election marks a significant turning point for Argentina. With a new leader who promises to cut down the government and prioritize economic freedom, the country has a chance to reverse its current trajectory. Milei’s victory is a victory for conservative values and a rejection of the failed policies of the past. Argentina is poised for a much-needed transformation under his leadership.