In a significant political blow, Argentine President Javier Milei’s newly formed libertarian party, La Libertad Avanza, suffered a decisive defeat in the Buenos Aires provincial election held on Sunday, September 7, 2025. The party secured only 34% of the vote, trailing the Peronist opposition, which garnered 47%, with the majority of ballots counted late Sunday.
This outcome is seen as a crucial test ahead of the upcoming congressional midterm elections in October. The Buenos Aires province, encompassing nearly 40% of Argentina’s electorate, is a key battleground for political influence. The Peronist Fuerza Patria coalition’s victory underscores the growing strength of the opposition, which now holds the largest bloc in Argentina’s fragmented congress.
President Milei, acknowledging the defeat, described it as a “clear defeat” and emphasized the need for introspection and adaptation. Despite the setback, he reaffirmed his commitment to his sweeping economic reforms, which include deregulation, public spending cuts, and efforts to curb inflation.
The election results also bolster the position of Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof, a prominent figure in the Peronist movement and a potential national contender. Kicillof’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape in the lead-up to the midterm elections.
As Argentina approaches the October midterms, the political climate remains volatile. The outcome of the Buenos Aires provincial election serves as a barometer for public sentiment and a harbinger of the challenges President Milei may face in advancing his legislative agenda. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the trajectory of Argentina’s political future.
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