The Guardian view on Argentina’s election: one step closer to becoming a Trumpian client state | Ediorial

Javier Milei's party and allies claimed victory in recent congressional elections, but the outcome appears heavily influenced by external financial aid. A significant $40 billion bailout from the United States played a crucial role in bolstering the Argentinian peso and stabilizing consumer prices. This financial lifeline provided Milei's government with an air of credibility, allowing him to attribute economic woes to the opposition. However, Milei's victory was not a decisive one, with his coalition securing only 40% of the vote amidst low turnout and a divided opposition. His radical economic agenda, including privatization and spending cuts, remains unpopular, with a majority of voters disapproving. Since Milei took office, Argentinians have experienced a sharp decline in purchasing power and real wages, along with substantial job losses. The article suggests that this reliance on US assistance has made Argentina's democracy and economy more beholden to Washington. The success in the midterms may have provided a temporary reprieve, but the underlying economic challenges persist. The low voter turnout and fragmented opposition indicate a complex political landscape. The long-term impact of this US-backed strategy on Argentina's future remains uncertain.