Following his address at the Legislative Assembly on March 1st, President Javier Milei will host an exclusive dinner at the Eva Perón Hall in Casa Rosada. This gathering is intended to reinforce his administration’s political agenda and strengthen internal alliances. However, the guest list reveals strategic decisions that highlight recent political tensions within his own coalition.

Exclusive Guest List and Notable Absences

• The dinner will be attended exclusively by Cabinet members, with two key exceptions:

  • Martín Menem, President of the Chamber of Deputies, reflecting Milei’s need to secure legislative support.
  • Santiago Caputo, Milei’s trusted advisor, although his attendance remains unconfirmed.

• Notably absent will be Victoria Villarruel, President of the Senate, highlighting escalating tensions and disagreements between her and Milei. Sources suggest that conflicts arose during the organization of the March 1st event, particularly over press seating arrangements.

Political Context: Internal Tensions and Strategic Positioning

• The decision to exclude Villarruel underscores growing friction within Milei’s administration, particularly regarding event logistics and communication strategy.
• Tensions were exacerbated by rumors of a media access veto at the Legislative Assembly, which Villarruel’s team denied, stressing a neutral stance toward the Executive branch.

Speech Focus: Cultural Battle, Security, and Economic Policy

1. Cultural Battle and Ideological Stance

• A significant portion of the speech will focus on Milei’s ongoing “cultural battle” against “woke ideology”.
• This narrative aims to consolidate his base by appealing to conservative values and reinforcing his anti-establishment identity.
• Milei’s advisor, Santiago Caputo, is expected to help him fine-tune the message to maximize public impact.

2. Security and Law Enforcement

• Security concerns will be a central theme, amplified by the recent La Plata incident that reignited debates on juvenile justice reform.
• Milei is expected to support the bill proposed by Patricia Bullrich and Cúneo Libarona to lower the age of criminal responsibility to 13, a controversial measure stalled in Congress due to opposition from progressive blocs, particularly Unión por la Patria.
• His backing could be pivotal in breaking legislative deadlock and pushing the bill forward.

3. Economic Policy and Achievements

• The speech will highlight Milei’s economic reforms, emphasizing progress in inflation control, deregulation, and public sector downsizing.
• He will reinforce his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and market liberalization as drivers of economic recovery and growth.

Anticipated Announcements and Political Implications

• Government insiders hinted at a major announcement that could dominate headlines, although specifics remain under strict secrecy.
• Political analysts expect Milei to leverage this moment to solidify his leadership, reaffirm his vision, and consolidate his political capital.

Strategic Judiciary Invitations

• Judge Ariel Lijo has been invited to the Legislative Assembly, despite the Supreme Court’s delay in his confirmation.
• This move is interpreted as a political statement by Milei, asserting his executive influence over the judicial appointment process.
• Judge Manuel García Mansilla will be seated with Horacio Rosatti, Carlos Rosenkrantz, and Ricardo Lorenzetti, symbolizing the Court’s new composition and Milei’s impact on Argentina’s judicial landscape.

A Strategic Moment for Milei’s Administration

This event will not only serve as a platform to outline Milei’s legislative priorities but also as a political maneuver to strengthen alliances and navigate internal tensions. The dinner symbolizes a calculated consolidation of power, positioning Milei to effectively pursue his reform agenda amidst growing political challenges.

Stay tuned for March 1st, as this speech and the subsequent dinner could reshape political dynamics within Argentina’s leadership.