Introduction

Would Mauricio Macri Have Made a Good President for Argentina?" "

Would Mauricio Macri have made a good president for Argentina? The sight of him back in the political spotlight inevitably brings to mind his previous term from 2015 to 2019. During his presidency, Argentina witnessed a significant surge in foreign debt, with little to show for it in terms of investment. This article delves into the nature of Macri's leadership, the political climate of Argentina at the time, and the potential consequences of his return to power.

" "

The Rise and Fall of Macri's Presidency

" "

Macri's tenure as president was marked by a procurement of foreign debt that drastically increased without any tangible investment to accompany it. The rise in foreign debt can be attributed in large part to Macri's reliance on cronyism and nepotism. The city of Buenos Aires, already the wealthiest in the nation, saw an extra percentage of overall tax income reassigned to it. This decision, however, was not a result of Congressional approval but rather a presidential decree. Upon Alberto Fernandez's attempt to reverse the situation, he faced resistance from the Supreme Court, which remained loyal to Macri. Despite the judicial stalling, Macri struggled to maintain his popularity among the Argentine electorate.

" "

In the 2015 elections, Macri lost the first round of the presidential race. However, with the requirement of over 45% of the vote to win, he entered a runoff with various smaller parties, earning just a 51% victory. When he ran again in 2019, his re-election attempt faltered, securing only 40% of the vote. This summary paints a picture of a leader who, despite maintaining a close connection with the electorate, failed to deliver the results that voters expected.

" "

Macri's Political Legacy and Compromises

" "

Argentineans, generally, view Macri's tenure as a time of financial mismanagement and political corruption. Macri, a severely compromised and authoritarian politician, was heavily embroiled in corporate and political corruption. The Panama Papers leak, which exposed countless financial irregularities, highlighted Macri's involvement in illicit activities. His administration was characterized by a coalition that served the interests of profit-driven entities, with power and financial interests often in conflict. This lack of coherence within his coalition makes it difficult for Macri to navigate internal struggles effectively.

" "

The media tycoons, food industry, international banks, and various factions of the US government exerted significant influence over Macri. Each group had its own interests and leverage, complicating Macri's ability to govern effectively. It seems that Macri's governing style was more about exploiting opportunities during a media blackout than addressing the genuine needs of the population. This approach has led to a significant transfer of income from low and middle classes to corporate interests, which, in the long run, will likely backfire and render Macri unable to complete his term.

" "

The Broader Context: Right-Wing Revolution

" "

Macri is not an isolated figure but rather a part of a broader US and corporate-funded right-wing revolution aimed at reversing social developmental policies and geopolitical independence in South America. Within a few years, he may become a symbol of systemic corruption, despised by a majority of the Argentine population. While this shift in public opinion could lead to even more significant problems, there is no denying the profound impact Macri has had on Argentine politics. His inability to address the fundamental issues plaguing the country has left a lasting mark on the political landscape.

" "

Regardless of the historical context and the current political climate, Macri's return to power would be fraught with challenges. His legacy is one of cronyism, economic mismanagement, and political corruption. The Argentine electorate, who initially supported him, have largely soured on his leadership. The coming years will likely be challenging for Macri, as he grapples with the fallout of his policy choices and the increasing public backlash against his administration.