Javier Milei reshapes governor alliances, eyes PASO reform for 2027

President Javier Milei has launched a coordinated effort to secure his re‑election in 2027, shifting the government’s approach toward provincial governors. After the departure of former chief of staff Manuel Adorni, Karina Milei activated an “operativo reelección,” urging governors to support a parliamentary reform that would eliminate the open, simultaneous, compulsory primaries (PASO) and introduce “collectoras” – coalition lists that allow provincial leaders to attach their candidates to the national ticket.

Diego Santilli, a former PRO figure, was appointed the new chief of staff, a move presented as a step toward rebuilding dialogue with the provinces. The administration is seeking agreements province by province, aiming to secure legislative backing for its electoral changes and to consolidate the economic agenda.

Opposition figures from the Peronist camp, including Carlos Bianco and Máximo Kirchner, have condemned the proposals as attempts to manipulate the electoral system. Within the governing coalition, former cabinet chief Guillermo Francos and economist Horacio Fazio have voiced strong support, arguing that a second Milei term is essential to cement economic reforms and that the PASO system is costly and unnecessary.

The debate centres on whether the “Libertad Avanza” project can maintain voter support despite falling approval ratings, and on the broader political realignment between the ruling libertarian bloc and traditional parties as the 2027 presidential race approaches.