Buenos Aires. – Argentine President Javier Milei acknowledged the defeat of his political force, La Libertad Avanza (LLA), in the legislative elections in Buenos Aires Province, the country’s largest electoral district. Despite the setback, he insisted that his government’s economic program will remain unchanged.

With 98.96% of polling stations counted, the opposition alliance Fuerza Patria –which brings together different sectors of Peronism– secured 47.28% of the vote, while LLA obtained 33.71%. Voter turnout reached 63%, lower than in past elections but higher than anticipated for a provincial-only vote.

Self-criticism and continuity

From the LLA headquarters, Milei admitted the defeat and offered self-criticism:
“Today we have suffered a clear defeat, and the first thing to do is accept the results. They were not positive, and we must recognize this setback”, said the president.

However, he made it clear that his policies will not change:
“The government’s economic course will not be reversed by a single millimeter”, Milei emphasized, underscoring the fiscal adjustment, deregulation, and market-opening policies implemented since December 2023.

His sister and presidential secretary, Karina Milei, is at the center of attention as the main strategist of the government, amid both internal criticism and opposition challenges.

A key victory for Peronism

The results mark a broad victory for Fuerza Patria in six of the eight Buenos Aires electoral districts, including the most populous areas. If confirmed, the Peronist alliance will secure a majority in both the provincial Senate and the Chamber of Deputies.

The defeat comes just weeks before the national elections on October 26, in which a portion of the Argentine Congress will be renewed. Buenos Aires Province, representing 38.6% of the national electorate, is considered decisive for shaping the balance of power in Parliament.

The road to October

The election was seen as a strategic battle for both the government and the opposition. The outcome strengthens Peronism as Milei’s main political counterweight and sets the stage for a more complex legislative scenario.

The president, however, seeks to turn his admission of defeat into a gesture to his supporters and allies, while betting that his strict economic discipline will be validated at the polls in October.