Argentine Vice President Villarruel Eyed for 2027 Presidential Run, Analyst Suggests

Vice President Victoria Villarruel might be preparing her own presidential candidacy for 2027, potentially splitting from the ruling La Libertad Avanza party, according to national deputy Miguel Ángel Pichetto. Speaking on the radio program "Toma y Daca," Pichetto, leader of the Encuentro Federal bloc, predicted an "electoral rupture" where Villarruel would appeal to a different segment of the electorate.

"She will express the nationalist, Catholic, and military-based sector that initially supported Milei," Pichetto stated, suggesting Villarruel would target voters distinct from President Javier Milei's current base. This assessment aligns with observations from former Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, who described Villarruel as a "typical conservative" whose ideas diverge from official libertarianism. Bullrich noted that Villarruel "has already decided to be part of a different project," even if unstated.

Pichetto also dismissed speculation about Villarruel seeking the governorship of Buenos Aires City, predicting that Diego Santilli would likely be the candidate. The conversation then shifted to the legal challenges faced by former President Cristina Kirchner, specifically the call from Peronism to lift her perpetual disqualification from holding public office. Pichetto explained the legal provisions for lifting such measures but also criticized the "Vialidad" case, citing alleged irregularities in the tribunal and prosecutor selection.

He characterized Kirchner's sentence as a "retrograde punishment," comparing it to ancient Greek and Roman exile penalties. Pichetto warned that imprisoning a former president and vice president places democracy in a "situation of extreme fragility."