The National Government is in the middle of negotiations with its legislative allies regarding the elimination of the Open, Simultaneous, and Mandatory Primaries (PASO). While they prefer their elimination, they are willing to suspend them if they do not obtain enough votes.
A source close to the presidential office mentioned that the priority is to eliminate the PASO, and if the necessary votes are not achieved, a temporary suspension would be considered. These discussions are taking place at the start of the extraordinary sessions, highlighting the importance of the issue for the Executive Power.
During the initial conversations, three different positions were identified among the allies regarding the PASO. If an agreement is not reached, there is a possibility of debating two projects in the chamber, and if votes for repeal are not obtained, support for the suspension of the elections would be given.
In a meeting in the Senate, Cabinet Chief Guillermo Francos reaffirmed the priority of eliminating the primaries. However, leaders of some parties, such as La Libertad Avanza, consider that, in case of a lack of consensus, suspension could be a viable option.
A work schedule has been established that includes discussing electoral reform in committees on February 4 and 5, and then bringing it to the chamber on February 6. In the Senate, debate is expected around February 20. The goal is to gather votes to fulfill the president's plans and avoid settling for a temporary suspension.
The estimated cost of organizing the PASO is around 150 million dollars, which has generated different positions among the parties. While the Government seeks to eliminate the elections, the PRO prefers to suspend them, and the UCR proposes to modify them to make them more costly.
The differences in this debate were exposed during the visit of representatives from different parties to the Casa Rosada. Although some interlocutors suggest the possibility of a suspension, those close to President Javier Milei insist on the total elimination of the PASO.
After meetings with leaders of blocs in the Chamber of Deputies and Senators, the Government's determination seemed to weaken in recent days. Upcoming meetings will be crucial in defining the course this discussion will take.
