Insaurralde's enduring influence in Buenos Aires, despite scandal

Martín Insaurralde, once a powerful figure in Buenos Aires province, continues to exert influence from the shadows following his resignation as Chief of Staff. His departure came after images surfaced of him on a yacht in the Mediterranean with model Sofía Clerici. His ex-wife, Jesica Cirio, recently showcased a closet full of dollars, further intensifying public scrutiny.

Despite his political absence, Insaurralde's decade-long network remains embedded in strategic provincial sectors. The Buenos Aires Chamber of Deputies, where his political ally Federico Otermín served as president before becoming mayor of Lomas de Zamora, is a key reference point. Provincial deputies like Juan Pablo De Jesús, former mayor of La Costa, reportedly still answer to Insaurralde. Other deputies, such as Marcela Basualdo, also remain loyal.

Insaurralde's influence extends to the provincial Senate, where Adrián Santarelli holds a seat. Gabriela Demaría, another loyalist from La Costa, was appointed to the Banco Provincia board, a result of Governor Axel Kicillof's legislative negotiations. Even in municipal governments, Insaurralde's network is visible, with Nicolás Mantegazza serving as mayor of San Vicente, a district housing the historic 17 de Octubre Museum.

The Provincial Institute of Lottery and Casinos, a significant regulatory body, was also reportedly under Insaurralde's control through Omar Galdurralde, now a councilor in Lanús. This demonstrates the enduring reach of Insaurralde's power base within the province's political and economic structures.