Javier Milei tried to dial back his rhetoric while offering tactical signals. Seen by many as the lion of the far right in Argentina, he now attempts a more stylish image but repeatedly stumbles. He defended himself against criticism and suggested adjustments to seize a better moment ahead of the runoff with Peronist Sergio Massa. Yet the subconscious often repeats what it has learned, even when it contradicts the aim.
Polls remain imperfect, but they provide a baseline candidates can read. This Sunday’s television debate could shape the path to the November 19 vote. Some outlets trimmed their coverage to avoid overstating momentum or inflaming passions. Still, Milei has leaned on bold contrasts, even drawing a controversial analogy about social norms. He dismissed alleged irregularities from the first round on October 22 and faced accusations of fraud spreading on social networks. He also campaigned in Mendoza, later recalling a hard line that suggested social forces must be confronted.
The La Libertad Avanza front line received calls for moderation. Diana Mondino, the party’s foreign policy voice, sought to soften hard stances that analysts said left the far right seven points behind Massa in the first round. Mondino now argues there is no path to cutting ties with the Vatican. She has shifted the framing to portray Francisco as potentially soft on policy, amid debates about his past views. If Milei wins, the plan includes a possible invitation to visit the country and a welcome for the pontiff if he chooses to engage.
When asked about equal marriage, Mondino paused before replying: “Philosophically, as a liberal, I support every person’s life plan. If someone chooses a path that others find unconventional, that is their choice and no one else’s business.”
Villarruel factor
Vice presidential candidate Victoria Villarruel also held back from inflammatory rhetoric. The daughter of a colonel who specialized in counter-insurgency avoids promising confrontations with democracy’s institutions. In a recent debate with Agustín Rossi, the Peronist candidate for the same post, Villarruel highlighted concerns about individuals connected to past abuses. She cited cases involving justice and accountability, reminding audiences of victims and families who remember how those years unfolded. Florencia Garat, whose father disappeared during the era, shared on social media how the violence affected families and communities.
Among the victims’ families and advocates, the memory of those who disappeared—such as Anita Fernández and Esther Ballestrino de Careaga, whose relatives were harmed in the dictatorship era—remains vivid. The Mothers of Plaza de Mayo have pushed to publicly recount their stories to challenge denialism. A Chilean-born advocate who moved to Argentina after the return of democracy described the emotional weight of standing in public spaces, sharing fear and hope. The crowd responded with a mix of applause and silence, reflecting the country’s painful history and the desire for safety and stability.
Former oppressors from Milei
Observers note that the concerns raised by victims’ families echo across Milei’s support base. Some worry the debate over the past could influence votes and the broader political climate. Activists and relatives remind voters of the lessons from the era and argue for accountability. Others, including former military-associated voices, emphasize that justice must be balanced with national reconciliation. The debate touches on how Argentina remembers its history while confronting current economic and security challenges.
Cecilia Pando, linked to figures in the era and a vocal supporter, urged voters to back Milei, framing the task as difficult but essential. Inflation, poverty, and insecurity are presented as urgencies demanding swift reforms. She argues for measures that would address the needs of soldiers, security forces, civilians, and police officers under scrutiny for alleged crimes committed decades ago. The message signals the tension between memory, justice, and the call for decisive action to restore order and future stability.
Pando also underscored the view that ongoing cases should proceed to resolution. She recalled how, in the 1970s, the military followed orders from governments, yet many faced jail later. The central question remains: who can guarantee that today’s powers won’t be treated the same way in the future? The discourse continues to divide opinion as voters weigh accountability, economy, and the direction of the country.