Despite the economic measures implemented, the president of Argentina, Javier Milei, maintains his position as the 'favorite' of the population compared to his political rivals. According to a survey conducted by LatAm Pulse for Bloomberg, about 41 percent of Argentines have a positive image of Milei, surpassing figures like Cristina Fernández de Kirchner and Axel Kicillof. He is even positioned above former president Mauricio Macri in positive perception.
Despite this popularity, more than half of the population expects a decrease in their purchasing power in the coming months, amid persistent concerns about inflation and unemployment. However, some Argentines oppose Milei's harsh stances on certain issues, which could have significant political implications.
The survey reveals that the majority of respondents believe that the Argentine economy is 'bad' and that their family's economic situation will not improve in the short term. Additionally, there are divergences on issues such as privatizations, price controls, and the relationship with Brazil, where Milei's views do not align with the general opinion.
Despite the challenges, the 'chainsaw,' symbol of Milei's campaign, has generated acceptance among citizens, as the majority prefer cutting spending over raising taxes. This stance could translate into greater electoral support for his party in the upcoming midterm elections in 2025, where he seeks to attract voters from the center-right PRO party.
However, it is important to note that Milei's approval has decreased as austerity measures have been implemented, with an increase in disapproval ratings from the population. At the same time, many Argentines show pessimism about the country's economic prospects, unlike the more optimistic outlook of investors.
