As the dust settles from Argentina’s national elections, the country is preparing for a highly anticipated presidential runoff that promises to shape its future. With 84.60% of the votes counted, the showdown will be between traditional Peronist candidate Sergio Massa and populist disruptor Javier Milei.
The results of this first round have shocked the political class, reflecting the deep divisions in Argentine society. On the one hand, Massa, candidate of the Unión por la Patria party, has emerged as favorite with 36.19% of the votes. With a background in traditional politics, Massa has promised to restore stability and economic growth in a country that has been dealing with a severe economic crisis for years.
On the other hand, Milei, a relatively unknown figure in Argentine politics, has swept with his ultra-liberal and anti-system platform. He obtained 30.27% of the votes as the candidate of La Libertad Avanza, a party he founded a few months before the elections. With his fiery rhetoric and unorthodox policies, Milei has captured the attention of voters disenchanted and tired of traditional politics, which has failed to bring tangible changes.
The upcoming presidential run-off is shaping up to be a choice between two radically different visions of Argentina’s future. Massa represents the traditional institutions that have long dominated Argentine politics, while Milei advocates a complete overhaul of the system.
The country’s economic crisis has been a key issue throughout the campaign, and both candidates have offered different approaches to deal with it. Massa has promised to apply a combination of state intervention and investment in key industries, proposes to increase exports by 2024, which would allow rebuilding reserves and achieving fiscal balance. While Milei’s plan foresees the liquidation of the Central Bank, the closure of the entity and the complete dollarization of the economy within 9 to 24 months.
As Argentina prepares for the final round of presidential elections on November 19, the stark contrast between Massa and Milei will undoubtedly spark heated debates and encourage their respective supporters. Many hope that this second round will bring the necessary clarity and a clear path for the country.
With information from Euronews
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