Argentina is experiencing a time of uncertainty and constant anguish due to political and economic turmoil, leaving many concerned for the country’s future. Citizens can no longer cover bare living essentials because inflation is rising rapidly, and salaries are not parallel with daily price increases. On Oct. 22, the presidential elections were held, and Argentines were anxious about the country’s future.
There were five candidates for president of the nation: Javier Milei, Patricia Bullrich, Sergio Massa, Myriam Bregman and Juan Schiaretti. They all have long careers in politics and economics, but the first three listed were the most popular candidates. The one who obtained the most votes was Sergio Massa, followed by Javier Milei. Since the votes between the two candidates received relatively the same number of votes, a second election will be held on Nov. 19, where the Argentine people will have to choose between these two candidates. Whoever obtains the most votes will finally be the new president of the Argentine Republic.
The near tie with votes has many citizens afraid to express their political ideals. Why? Because Sergio Massa defines himself as a Peronist, he is of the same political party as the Argentine government. He defends workers’ rights and is the country’s Economic Minister, leaving many people confused about how he could run for president and how he received so many votes with record inflation. Javier Milei is from the opposing political party, and his ideals are very “outlandish,” according to interviewed sources.
Milei is in favor of establishing gun laws, allowing civilians to possess bladed weapons, and wants to privatize education through a system of study vouchers. Milei, however, is a great economist, and his speeches about Argentina’s economy and how he would fight it have left many Argentines in awe.
The country’s social climate is tense due to continuous political discord between co-workers, strangers, social networks, friends and families. Idealoliges on each side leave many searching for a common ground. Political tension from right and left groups has caused many to fear their presidential choice.
In a survey in a square in the Belgrano neighborhood of the City of Buenos Aires, fifteen people did not want to answer any questions, and four indicated they already knew which candidate they would vote for. Two had no problem expressing their vote, but the others did not want to reveal it. Four out of four said who they would not vote for, and their political positions were solid and well-founded. The Argentine people investigate and inform themselves about each candidate and like to remain well-educated since voting is a national concern.
All Argentines need and want change, but the problem lies there: what change is good and for whom? Whoever wins will generate more discontent since the political gap is vast, but the Argentine people are proud to be part of this election and this history that is about to be written.
by Marina Chauffaille
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