Live Update: Javier Milei draws comparison to historical figure "El Loco" Sarmiento, pledging to curb verbal attacks towards political opposition.
In a bold move, President Javier Milei has compared himself to Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, a 19th-century Argentine intellectual and president renowned for his efforts to modernize Argentina and reform society. This comparison, made as part of Milei's self-portrayal as a transformative and disruptive political figure, emphasizes his role as a populist disruptor and reformer with sweeping ambitions for reshaping Argentina’s political and economic landscape.
Milei rose to the presidency in 2023 by channeling widespread voter dissatisfaction with Argentina’s political elite, whom he and his supporters blame for economic troubles such as hyperinflation, currency collapse, and poverty. By invoking Sarmiento, Milei signals that he views his political mission as one of dramatic change against entrenched elites, seeking to "reorganize" Argentina’s economic and political structures much as Sarmiento did in his time.
This comparison resonates with a nationalist tradition in Argentina that admires strong, often polarizing leaders judged as necessary to break cycles of corruption and economic stagnation. However, given Sarmiento's complex legacy—including his authoritarian tendencies and harsh policies toward indigenous populations—Milei’s comparison also evokes controversy around how radical and uncompromising his reforms may be, and concerns about potential social divisions and abuses.
Meanwhile, in other political developments, Minister of Deregulation and State Transformation Federico Sturzenegger announced the removal of Form 381 for boat transfers. The Senate committee began discussions on the constitution of the Supreme Court, and the President reminded the nation that Sarmiento was also called "The Madman" and labeled him a "serial insultor".
In economic news, Pablo Quirno, Finance Secretary, stated that to dispel the 'kuka risk', one must vote well and affirmed that Argentina will not run out of dollars. The government has approved an incremental increase of 7.5% in the salaries of the Armed Forces and Naval Establishments Police until November.
Protests are ongoing against the veto of the Disability Law, with replicas in other parts of the country. The Government has filed criminal charges against those who cheated on the medical residency exam, and a mother opposed the veto that leaves in suspense the declaration of emergency in disability, stating, "I'm more afraid that my son will lose his special school and his therapy than that a policeman will hit me."
Congress resumed activity with meetings in commissions, discussing critical issues for the relationship with governors and the expansion of the Supreme Court. Esteban Paolón criticized President Milei, stating that the President's promise to stop insulting and debate ideas with the opposition is not being kept. Victoria Montenegro, a deputy from the Frente de Todos for the City of Buenos Aires, denounced the security operation during the march against the veto of the Disability Law.
In other news, the Persian embassy in Argentina has sent letters asking for compensation regarding the Venezuelan plane episode to various figures, including Javier Milei, Deputy Milman, and others. Victoria Villarruel filed a complaint against a journalist sympathetic to Milei for "rebellion, threats, and public intimidation". The Church issued a strong warning to the Government about their economic plan, stating that protecting employment should be a priority.
Lastly, Javier Milei made a promise to the opposition to stop using insults to see if they're in a position to discuss ideas. Victoria Villarruel launched a counteroffensive against Milei's inner circle, filing complaints in court accusing Lilia Lemoine and Javier Negre of committing serious crimes on social media to undermine her image. A protest against the migration reform implemented by Milei's government is scheduled at the Obelisk on Tuesday.
French media outlets have shown a keen interest in Milei's policy-and-legislation reforms, as they represent a significant shift in Argentine politics, echoing Sarmiento's sweeping changes during his presidency. Milei's comparison to Sarmiento, a historical figure known for his reforms and controversial policies, has sparked discussions in French politics sections, with debates surrounding the potential implications of such radical changes and their impact on Argentina’s general news landscape.
