Argentine Congress overrides Milei’s vetoes on key spending bills

Argentine lawmakers have overridden two vetoes by President Javier Milei, dealing a setback to his economic agenda. The moves come ahead of midterm elections that could reshape his reform plans.

On Thursday, Argentina’s opposition-controlled Senate voted overwhelmingly to override Milei’s vetoes of bills increasing funding for public universities and pediatric health care, with margins of 59-7 and 58-7, respectively.

Milei, known for deep austerity policies aimed at shrinking government, argued that the spending would threaten Argentina’s fiscal balance. In September, Congress also overturned one of his vetoes, reinstating funding for people with disabilities, signalling growing legislative resistance to his measures.

The timing is critical as the country approaches midterm elections on 26 October, with Milei facing waning popularity amid a corruption scandal and public dissatisfaction with austerity.

Political consultant Sebastian Halperin noted that there is “a sensation of disenchantment and anger with the impact of the cutbacks,” adding that Milei has struggled to build alliances with provincial governors who influence legislative votes.

Recently, Milei received backing from U.S. President Donald Trump, who pledged support to help stabilise Argentina’s financial markets. The two are expected to meet in October as Milei seeks a credit swap line from the United States.

Analysts warn, however, that the president needs a strong midterm showing to maintain the progress he has achieved in stabilising the economy.

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