The first year of Javier Milei’s government has been marked by drastic changes, severe economic adjustments, and an anti-system narrative that continues to underpin his popularity in Argentina. Since taking office, Milei has positioned himself as a disruptive leader, directly opposing what he calls the political “caste” and consolidating an image of renewal for many Argentinians who, for decades, have felt abandoned by ineffective administrations.
Despite controversial measures and polarizing rhetoric, Milei maintains high approval ratings, which are explained not only by improvements in economic indicators but also by his ability to sustain a discourse that resonates with the population’s historical discontent with the traditional political class.
One of the central factors sustaining Milei’s popularity is the impact of his economic policy. In a year, Argentina’s inflation saw a significant decline, dropping from 25.5% in December 2023, when he assumed office, to 2.7% in October 2024. This dramatic reduction, unprecedented in decades, has eased pressure on the domestic economy and generated optimism in sectors previously burdened by economic instability.
The drop in inflation results from aggressive economic adjustment policies, including deep public spending cuts, privatizations, and fiscal reforms. While these measures have drawn criticism for reducing investments in social areas, analysts point out that the positive impact on price control has directly contributed to increased purchasing power and strengthened market confidence.
Beyond economic progress, Milei’s success is directly tied to his ability to remain a symbol of rupture with the past. Analysts highlight that, for many Argentinians, he represents more than a political leader; he embodies a desire for change after decades of governments failing to address everyday problems.
“Milei has consolidated a support base that is much more a rejection of old politics than outright approval of his administration. The population’s exhaustion with 30 years of ineffective policies works in his favor. He offers a narrative that says, ‘enough,’ and this resonates with a tired society,” notes political scientist Lara Goyburu.
This image of rupture is reinforced by the president’s symbolic actions, such as the extensive replacement of high-ranking officials. Since taking office, around 100 changes have been recorded, including three ministers — among them Chancellor Diana Mondino — and the Chief of Staff, a position equivalent to Brazil’s Chief Minister of the Civil House. These changes, according to experts, convey the message that Milei does not tolerate internal contradictions in his administration.
“For society, these replacements carry significant symbolic weight. They reinforce the idea that the government is committed to transforming the public machine by removing those who do not align with its objectives,” explains Goyburu. However, she notes that despite the rhetoric, there is some continuity in strategic positions, with influential figures being maintained behind the scenes.
Polls reflect the strength of this narrative. According to the Zuban Córdoba y Asociados institute, Milei’s approval ranged from 42% to 45% throughout the year, reaching 47% in October. Meanwhile, the Poliarquía institute reports even higher figures, with 56% approval — a number close to the percentage of votes Milei garnered in the second electoral round.
These numbers indicate solid support, albeit not without challenges. The Zuban Córdoba poll highlights that positive perceptions are largely anchored in economic results, while areas such as security, public education, and transparency face greater rejection. Furthermore, Milei’s libertarian rhetoric, promoting deregulation and extreme individual freedom, does not enjoy widespread support in a society more interested in concrete results than ideologies.
Milei’s foreign policy has also been a focal point of his administration, marked by decisions blending economic pragmatism with ideological confrontations. From his campaign, he promised automatic alignment with the United States and Israel, which indeed materialized. However, his actions have gone beyond expectations, sparking controversies both domestically and internationally.
In October, Milei fired his chancellor, Diana Mondino, after Argentina voted at the UN against the economic embargo on Cuba, a move that displeased his political base. Simultaneously, his government announced an audit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to identify career officials accused of having “freedom-hostile” agendas.
The president has also taken predictable steps, such as strengthening ties with Donald Trump and Israel and harshly criticizing the Venezuelan government, leading to the expulsion of Argentina’s diplomatic corps from Caracas. However, Milei surprised by confronting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, resulting in the withdrawal of the Spanish ambassador from Buenos Aires, and by abandoning Argentina’s delegation at COP29 in Azerbaijan.
Another point of tension was Argentina’s resistance to G20 consensus on issues such as gender, taxing the ultra-wealthy, and hate speech. According to Milei, these agendas reflect the implementation of the UN’s 2030 Agenda, which he describes as a “leftist” program harmful to the values of freedom and property.
Despite the confrontational tone, the president has shown pragmatism in some situations, such as approaching China after initially ruling out negotiations with the communist country and signing the G20 final declaration, albeit reluctantly.
Domestically, Milei intensified his battle against Kirchnerism, dissolving ministries and reducing public policies focused on gender issues. He argues that these initiatives have not yielded effective results in combating violence or promoting equality.
On the other hand, Milei has avoided advancing controversial proposals, such as a referendum to repeal the legalization of abortion up to the 14th week of pregnancy. This hesitation is interpreted as a political calculation to avoid further dividing society.
With the opposition still weakened under the leadership of former President Cristina Kirchner — whose six-year corruption sentence was recently upheld — and with inflation under control, Milei has managed to remain the protagonist of a “cultural battle” aimed at reshaping the values of Argentine society.
Analysts suggest that despite his radical rhetoric, Milei’s government takes a pragmatic approach, balancing his anti-system narrative with economic interests. “The extreme discourse strengthens his image as a global libertarian leader, but in practice, he steps back whenever economic interests demand it,” analyzes Lourdes Puente, director of the School of Politics and Government at the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina.
According to Daniel Zovatto, president of Latam Strategic Advisory 360, Milei’s future will depend on continued economic success and the absence of major international crises. “If external conditions remain favorable, Milei can consolidate his base and strengthen his political project. But it is too early to say whether his administration will bring structural changes to Argentine society’s values.”
Thus, Javier Milei’s first year reflects the challenge of balancing ideology and pragmatism in a government that presents itself as a rupture but still relies on concrete results to sustain its popular appeal and define its legacy.
