In the waning hours before the commencement of the 143rd ordinary session of the National Congress, President Javier Milei is meticulously finalizing his speech. Milei’s approach to this pivotal moment is characterized by an attention to detail, ensuring that no aspect is left to chance. This dedication to precision is evident in his decision to forgo attending the inauguration of his Uruguayan counterpart, Yamandú Orsi, who will assume office on Saturday, March 1, around 13:30.

As anticipated by various sources, Milei will deliver his speech at 21:00 via national television. The speech, which will last approximately 45 minutes, is expected to outline a list of about 35 bills that the Executive Branch will promote. However, Milei will not name each bill individually; instead, he will use them to illustrate the path forward for the remainder of his tenure. According to an insider, “It will be Milei style and you never have to rule them out.”

Milei’s address will likely highlight the achievements of his first year in office, both politically and economically. He is expected to emphasize his administration’s success in combating inflation, implementing deregulations across various sectors, and reducing personnel in state agencies. The focus will be on the promises made during his electoral campaign that have already been fulfilled, as well as the reforms that remain to be implemented. In a recent report, Milei claimed that 78% of his campaign promises have already been met.

Another critical topic Milei may address is the issue of insecurity, particularly in light of recent high-profile crimes. The murder of a 7-year-old girl in La Plata, committed by two minors during an assault, has sparked widespread criticism of Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof from various sectors, including those within the ruling party.

Milei’s speech will also touch on the “cultural battle,” a theme frequently emphasized by the ruling party in public presentations and international forums such as Davos or the United Nations Assembly. The decision by legislators from the Unión por la Patria party to boycott the speech due to dissatisfaction with Milei’s treatment of opposition members has not gone unnoticed by the government. Milei intends to address the opposition’s behavior, particularly their resistance to key government projects, such as the recent nominations of Judges Ariel Lijo and Manuel García Mansilla to the Supreme Court of Justice.

In preparation for the event, invitations have been sent to governors and ambassadors, but some confirmations are still pending. Diplomatic representatives will occupy two special boxes, and media coverage within the enclosure is being finalized. Milei will invite Judges Ariel Lijo and Manuel García Mansilla to the session, who have recently been appointed by decree to serve on the Supreme Court for a year. The photo of the new Supreme Court justices, including Ricardo Lorenzetti, Carlos Rosenkrantz, and Horacio Rosatti, could be taken during the session. It remains unclear whether Lijo and García Mansilla will take their oaths before the speech.

Security measures have been enhanced with several meetings held in recent days between Vice President Victoria Villarruel, head of the Senate, and Martín Menem, head of the Chamber of Deputies. The presidential security staff has determined to restrict access to certain officials and ensure that cabinet ministers are “capsules” from La Rosada.

Implications for U.S. Readers

The political landscape in Argentina, under President Javier Milei, offers several parallels and contrasts to the U.S. political scene. Milei’s focus on deregulation and reducing government personnel echoes similar debates in the U.S. about the role of government and economic policy. The emphasis on fulfilling campaign promises and addressing high-profile crimes resonates with American voters who prioritize accountability and public safety.

In the U.S., recent political debates have centered around issues such as inflation and economic recovery, much like Argentina’s focus on combating inflation and implementing economic reforms. The handling of high-profile crimes and public safety is a pressing issue in both countries, with both Milei and U.S. leaders facing scrutiny over their responses to violent incidents.

Milei’s approach to governance, characterized by a strong emphasis on fulfilling campaign promises and addressing public safety, could serve as a case study for U.S. politicians looking to balance economic policy with public safety concerns. The political dynamics in Argentina, including the opposition’s boycott and the government’s response, highlight the complexities of bipartisan cooperation and the challenges of implementing significant reforms.