Milei links electoral support to tangible outcomes
President Javier Milei said on Wednesday that the public's willingness to back him again and his own possible reelection hinge on showing concrete achievements. Speaking at the closing of the "Vientos de cambio" event organized by the Libertad y Progreso Foundation at the Sheraton hotel in Retiro, he acknowledged that without results, it becomes hard for people to stay supportive.[S1]
He stressed that citizens need to see real improvements to vote for him again and called for a "cultural battle." Despite challenges, he expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, predicting that a victory in October similar to the last one would give his coalition a majority in the lower house and bring them within two seats of a Senate majority.[S1]
No flexibility on economic policy
Milei emphasized that his government will not ease monetary or fiscal policy, despite calls from some who, with good intentions, seek to secure his reelection. He reiterated that fiscal policy is not negotiable and that they will not stop until inflation is defeated. He argued that populism cannot be beaten by practicing populism and that there is no substitute for good policies and moral correctness.[S1]
He also defended his refusal to use what he called "morally despicable" tools, saying he is proud not to use the full toolbox of state intervention. He asserted that his government will not violate the right to life, liberty, or private property.[S1]
Regional and domestic achievements touted
The president reviewed the regional political landscape, celebrating that Latin America is moving away from leftist options. He noted that in October 2020 the continent was mostly painted red, but now many countries are painted blue, and he projected a possible right-wing victory in Brazil.[S1]
He highlighted his administration's achievements, including slowing inflation and reducing poverty. He claimed that if projections hold, GDP will grow by 17 percent during his first term, nearly tripling OECD growth. He also said poverty fell from 53 percent to 28 percent, lifting 14 million people out of poverty, and that while over 70,000 public employees were cut, the private sector created more than 600,000 jobs.[S1]
Attack on media and journalists
Milei concluded by criticizing the media and journalists, accusing them of betting on the failure of his government's program. He said that despite "dirty and corrupt journalists" who want Argentina to fail, they are winning by a wide margin, and while they continue telling lies, his government will keep repeating the truth.[S1]
