Argentina's Bullrich secures allies' support for judicial appointments and legislative agenda

Argentine Senator Patricia Bullrich has successfully negotiated an agreement with her allies, paving the way for a crucial Senate session this Thursday. The session's primary objective is to approve a package of judicial nominations, including two judges considered vital for the current government's judicial strategy. This agreement follows initial doubts earlier in the week but ultimately consolidates support for the administration's nominees.

The agenda for the session, convened by Victoria Villarruel, features 67 judicial nominations. Among the prominent nominees are Pablo Bertuzzi and Pablo Yadarola, judges who could potentially rule on sensitive cases, including the cryptocurrency scandal involving $LIBRA and irregularities within the disability agency. The session will also address various international agreements and incorporate nearly all declaration projects proposed by opposition blocs that have already passed committee review.

Beyond securing approval for judicial appointments, a significant aspect of the agreement involves the ruling party conceding to a broader legislative agenda. Bullrich, the head of the ruling party in the Senate, agreed to include opposition-backed projects, signaling a willingness to compromise and ensure a more inclusive legislative process. This move appears to be a response to pressure from allied senators who sought to prevent the agenda from being exclusively focused on government initiatives.

Looking ahead, Bullrich indicated plans to advance two government projects next week: the "Super RIGI" (a major regulatory reform) and the companies' law, both spearheaded by Minister of Deregulation Federico Sturzenegger. The Super RIGI is expected to pass with modifications and return to the Chamber of Deputies. In exchange for the broader agenda, Bullrich also greenlit progress on the biofuel project, a proposal championed by senators from northern provinces and also supported by a version from the Executive Branch. Discussions on biodiesel and bioethanol are ongoing in joint committee meetings.