Milei travels to Rosario for Flag Day amid controversy surrounding Adorni and Villarruel's attendance

President Javier Milei is set to participate in public events this Saturday, coinciding with the high-intensity celebration of Flag Day on June 20 in Rosario. The city is a focal point for political division whenever the libertarian leader visits, drawing both strong support, particularly from young people, and outright rejection from traditional political sectors and most labor unions, which have declared him "persona non grata."

Milei is not expected to face overt hostility during the official ceremony, as the preceding speeches by Governor Maximiliano Pullaro and Mayor Pablo Javkin are intended to be balanced, avoiding direct criticism. Their aim is to acknowledge Milei's presence at an event deeply rooted in Rosario's identity.

Perhaps the most significant discomfort for Milei may stem from dissent within his own political ranks. Vice President Victoria Villarruel announced via social media platform X that she would attend the event, despite not being initially included in the guest list by the Presidency's protocol team. "On Saturday, I will be in Rosario, which is my second home," the Vice President wrote on Wednesday.

Villarruel has a personal connection to Rosario, frequently visiting her mother there with a low profile. Her father, Eduardo Marcelo Villarruel, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and Falklands War veteran, passed away in a Rosario clinic in May 2021 after contracting COVID-19. His Falklands War medal is kept at the Rosario Cathedral, a place the Vice President visited on May 20.

Another source of potential awkwardness for Milei on the presidential dais is the presence of Manuel Adorni. Following an interview where he admitted his wealth grew through cryptocurrency investments, Adorni has largely avoided official events, maintaining a low profile as his primary strategy to stay out of the media spotlight. Uncertainty surrounds whether his appearance will provoke any public discontent at the always well-attended event. On Friday, the government appointed Adrián Ravier as the new presidential spokesperson, taking over the role previously held by Adorni.

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On Saturday, I will be in Rosario, which is my second home.