The Argentine presidential elections resulted in a victory for Javier Milei, who describes himself as a "chaotic capitalist" and has long stirred controversy with his television appearances and statements. Milei received 55.95% of the votes, while his opponent, Economy Minister Sergio Massa, got 44.04%, after 86% of the votes were counted. Massa acknowledged his defeat, stating that he contacted Milei to congratulate him. The liberal candidate achieved a significant surprise by winning the elections during a runoff held amid tensions rarely seen in Argentina since the return of democratic rule 40 years ago.
The result of the runoff was in contrast to the first round, where Massa led with 37% compared to Milei's 30%. The Argentine elections were held amid inflation reaching 143%, one of the highest rates globally, and a poverty rate affecting 40% of the population, despite social welfare programs, alongside deep-seated debt problems and a continuing decline in the value of the local currency, the peso. Argentina is experiencing rising prices month by month, and even week by week, while wages have decreased, with the minimum salary reaching 146,000 pesos, equivalent to $400.
What do we know about Javier Milei? He is a 53-year-old far-right politician and economist running for the libertarian bloc, La Libertad Avanza. Milei holds a degree in economics, and his partner Karina is regarded as his right hand and close confidante. He is married with no children and does not communicate with his parents because, according to him, they "treated him harshly in childhood." The new Argentine president loves dogs, viewing them as his friends and children, and he supports the dollarization of the Argentine economy and the abolition of the central bank in the country.
Milei entered politics a long time ago, joining the liberal party in 2019, and became a member of parliament in 2021. He has frequently appeared on television as an economic expert, showcasing his rhetorical talent and showmanship, which have allowed him to gain the trust of many young people, according to opinion polls. Milei celebrated his election victory in a hysterical manner.
One of the most notable stances he is known for is his appearance in a car waving a chainsaw, which he considers a symbol of how to put an end to the political class that has developed in Argentina in recent years, deal with failing state institutions, and combat inflation. Among his most peculiar behaviors is his criticism of Pope Francis, an Argentine who is highly respected in the country, whom he described as a representative of everything harmful on earth.
The new Argentine president supports human organ trade and once stated: "My body is mine, why can't I control it? There are many people in Argentina waiting for donor organs, so market mechanisms should be sought to solve this problem." Despite his support for organ trade, Milei opposes abortion and advocates for the unrestricted right to bear arms at a time when crime rates have already been rising in Argentina in recent years.
Milei intends to focus his dealings with the United States and Israel while ending partnerships with strategic partners "China and Brazil," as he does not wish to engage with socialists and communists, as he claims. He also stated that his country will not participate in the BRICS group and has no intention of working with Russia.
