Argentina's government grapples with stalled teacher pay talks and seeks Senate votes for reforms

The provincial government of Córdoba, led by Governor Axel Kicillof, presented a 2.5% wage increase to teachers, which unions rejected without consulting their bases. Negotiations remain at an intermediate stage, with no new meeting date set. Earlier this year, public‑sector workers received a cumulative 9.1% raise, but officials argue that inflation has eroded purchasing power, prompting demands for a higher increase. The administration cites severe fiscal constraints linked to national economic policies.

At the national level, Chief of Cabinet Diego Santilli asked legislators for a 15‑day window to gather the Senate votes needed to advance two key projects: the electoral reform bill and changes to the cold‑zones tariff regime. After meeting with senators from La Libertad Avanza, PRO, UCR and provincial blocs, Santilli plans to negotiate with governors, whose support is seen as decisive for both reforms. Resistance remains strong within both the governing coalition and provincial representatives, making the legislative push uncertain.