Argentina’s President Milei pushes to scrap PASO primaries ahead of 2027 election
The Milei administration is intensifying negotiations with provincial governors to eliminate the national open primary system (PASO) and replace it with a “list‑collector” (colectoras) mechanism that would allow allied parties to run joint presidential candidates while preserving separate legislative lists. The reform is a central pillar of the government’s re‑election strategy for the 2027 race and is being fast‑tracked for a Senate vote in August‑September, requiring an absolute majority of 37 votes.
Support comes from a handful of governors, notably Catamarca’s Raúl Jalil, Entre Ríos leaders and others who have publicly backed the PASO repeal. Opposition is strong among the ruling Peronist bloc, the PRO, the radical UCR and several provincial leaders who warn that the colectoras scheme could concentrate power with Milei’s party and undermine internal party democracy. Legislative debates highlight the need for compensatory concessions to win the necessary votes.
The government also ties the electoral amendment to other reforms, such as changes to the “Zona Fría” energy subsidy regime and a new fiscal‑inocence law, underscoring a broader legislative agenda aimed at consolidating Milei’s liberal agenda before the next presidential contest.