Argentina Congress overrides Milei veto

Argentina's Congress has made a historic decision by overturning a veto issued by President Javier Milei for the first time since he took office, significantly raising the political stakes as the country heads into critical legislative elections. The opposition-controlled Senate voted decisively, with 63 votes in favor and only seven against, to override Milei's veto of a bill designed to increase spending and protections for people with disabilities. This action follows an earlier vote in the lower house, which also supported the veto override.

The timing of this decision is crucial, as it comes just before legislative elections in the province of Buenos Aires and nationwide midterm elections scheduled for October. President Milei, who currently holds a small minority in Congress, is under pressure to increase his party's representation to effectively pursue his policy agenda. This marks the first successful override of a full presidential veto in Argentina since 2003, highlighting a significant shift in the legislative landscape.

Milei's administration is facing mounting challenges, with his approval rating dropping below 40%. The Argentine peso continues to weaken, interest rates are rising, and financial markets are reacting negatively to the growing political instability. The libertarian party, La Libertad Avanza, controls less than 15% of congressional seats, making it increasingly difficult for Milei to pass key components of his reform agenda without forming strategic alliances.

Compounding these challenges is a corruption scandal involving Milei's sister and chief of staff, Karina Milei. Leaked audio recordings suggest she accepted kickbacks related to contracts with a disability agency, leading to the swift dismissal of the agency's head, Diego Spagnuolo. This scandal adds to the pressure on Milei's administration as it grapples with public discontent and economic difficulties.

As the country approaches crucial elections, this congressional rebellion underscores a growing resistance to Milei's austerity measures and may signal deeper political challenges ahead. The outcome of the upcoming elections will be pivotal in determining the future direction of Milei's policies and the overall political landscape in Argentina.