Karina Milei Pressures Jorge Macri in Buenos Aires, Demands Another 'Test of Love'

Karina Milei and her allies, including figures associated with the Menem family, have signaled they are not considering an electoral agreement with Pro for the 2027 Buenos Aires elections. Instead, they intend to intensify their territorial presence in populous districts and advocate for replicating President Javier Milei's national model in the capital city. A key demand is for Buenos Aires Mayor Jorge Macri to support the abolition of national primary elections (PASO) and to eliminate this electoral tool from the city's own processes.

This pressure is framed as a "test of love" for the Milei political movement. However, Jorge Macri has thus far expressed disagreement with abandoning primaries for executive office elections. His administration is focused on demonstrating political momentum, emphasizing a tough stance on crime, inspired by El Salvador's Nayib Bukele, and promoting state austerity measures aligned with libertarian ideals and President Milei's "chainsaw" rhetoric.

Macri's recent actions have garnered positive attention from the national government. President Milei and Economy Minister Luis Caputo finalized an agreement to cancel the city's debt related to revenue sharing. Additionally, Milei authorized the transfer of the labor justice system to the city's jurisdiction. These moves are seen as gestures of goodwill, but they have not yet led to discussions about electoral alliances.

To secure support for the political reform bill sent to Congress, Karina Milei's advisors are urging Jorge Macri to follow the example of Entre Ríos Governor Rogelio Frigerio, another Pro leader. They want Macri to endorse the elimination of primaries. Simultaneously, Pilar Ramírez, considered Karina Milei's alter ego, plans to reiterate the demand for the city's ruling party to push for the definitive removal of PASO in Buenos Aires.

Sources within the city government in Parque Patricios remain firm, stating that no initiative to remove or suspend primaries in the capital is currently being evaluated. Furthermore, a decision on whether Jorge Macri will unify or separate local elections from national ones has not been made. This uncertainty leaves open the possibility of him becoming either an ally or an opponent of the Milei faction, as he appears in no hurry to resolve this strategic question.

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If a crime occurred, the justice system will have to sanction it.