Lacunza's Early Candidacy Sparks Internal PRO Party Strife

The early presidential candidacy announcement by Hernán Lacunza has significantly stirred internal politics within Argentina's PRO party, exposing deep divisions. While the broader electorate remains largely disengaged fourteen months before the presidential election, the PRO party is grappling with its strategic direction.

PRO party leader Mauricio Macri faces a dilemma. He is being urged by some within his party and allied forces to seek a second presidential term, a prospect he has not yet committed to. Simultaneously, Macri is attempting to consolidate leadership in Buenos Aires City, aiming to orchestrate a primary contest between current mayor Jorge Macri and Horacio Rodríguez Larreta. However, he has not ruled out a personal run for the city's mayorship if internal consensus fails.

Lacunza's decision to declare his presidential aspirations has highlighted a key split within the PRO: one faction advocates for the party to field its own candidate for the Casa Rosada, while another favors an alliance with Javier Milei's La Libertad Avanza. Macri appears to be encouraging Lacunza's candidacy, yet his own indecision and the party's internal conflicts create ambiguity.

Supporters of Lacunza, including figures like Fernando de Andreis and María Eugenia Vidal, are reportedly critical of Milei's current administration. They believe the PRO should offer an alternative to both Milei's policies and a return to Kirchnerism, representing a segment of society disillusioned with the economic situation but unwilling to revert to the past. This group views Lacunza as a potential "Plan B" should Macri ultimately decide against running.