Milei's party wins Argentina legislative elections, boosting reform agenda

President Javier Milei's La Libertad Avanza party has achieved a significant victory in Argentina's parliamentary elections, capturing 40.8% of the national vote according to near-complete results. The ruling party's strong performance against the Peronist opposition's 24.5% provides crucial legislative support for Milei's ambitious economic reform agenda and represents a major political endorsement of his administration's direction.

Legislative Gains and Political Implications

The election, which renewed 127 of 257 Chamber of Deputies seats and 24 of 72 Senate positions, delivered 64 additional lower house seats to Milei's coalition. Starting December 10, La Libertad Avanza will control 94 deputies, falling short of an absolute majority but gaining sufficient strength to sustain presidential vetoes and block potential impeachment proceedings that opposition factions had threatened. The Senate, however, remains under opposition control.

Milei's Reform Agenda and Celebration

A triumphant President Milei declared the outcome "a historic day" marking Argentina's transition "from decadence to progress." He announced that "the new Congress will be fundamental to ensuring the change of direction" and pledged to pursue significant reforms over the next two years to "consolidate Argentina's growth and takeoff." Milei characterized the incoming legislature as "the most reformist Congress in Argentine history," indicating his intention to advance substantial policy changes.

International Reaction and Electoral Context

US President Donald Trump congratulated Milei, stating "He is doing a wonderful job! Our confidence in him was justified by the people of Argentina" on his Truth Social platform. Trump had previously endorsed Milei while warning that US assistance would be curtailed if the opposition prevailed. The election also recorded Argentina's lowest voter turnout since democratic restoration in 1983, with less than 68% participation despite mandatory voting laws.