The presidential election in Argentina: Sergio Massa and Javier Milei lead the first round
Argentina experienced an eventful election day on Sunday, with the first round of the presidential election seeing Sergio Massa and Javier Milei qualify for the second round. Sergio Massa, candidate of the center-left government bloc, obtained 36.6% of the votes, thus ahead of Javier Milei, anti-system candidate, who collected 30% of the votes.
This election was marked by strong uncertainty and growing concern among the Argentine population. The country faces a critical economic situation, with record inflation and a high level of poverty. Voters expressed their desire for change, while also expressing their fear about a possible “leap into the void” with a candidate with anti-system ideas.
Sergio Massa, drawing on his experience as Minister of the Economy, tried to reassure voters by presenting a program focused on economic recovery, including measures to stimulate exports and support small and medium-sized businesses. He also promised to form a government of national unity, thus opening the door to collaboration with other political forces.
For his part, Javier Milei, representative of the ultraliberal movement, focused his campaign on questioning the role of the State in the Argentine economy. He advocates a drastic reduction in state intervention and advocates radical economic liberalism. His supporters see in him a real antidote to the economic and social crisis the country is going through.
The second round of the election will be held on November 19, and the presidency will be officially awarded on December 10. The two candidates will therefore still have a few weeks to convince voters and specify their program.
Whoever wins this election will face many challenges, both economically and socially. Argentina will have to find lasting solutions to deal with galloping inflation, debt and unemployment, while ensuring a fair distribution of resources and guaranteeing the fundamental rights of its population.
This election marks an important turning point in the political history of Argentina. The outcome of the vote will determine the direction the country takes in the years to come and will have a significant impact on the daily lives of Argentines. It is therefore crucial to closely follow these events and analyze the results of this first round in order to understand the issues that are emerging for the future of Argentina.