Can Argentina elect a bold leader to address the economic challenges?

The upcoming presidential run-off in Argentina is highly anticipated, as it follows an unexpected victory by radical candidate Javier Milei in the August primaries. While Milei was outperformed by left-wing Economy Minister Sergio Massa in the first round last month, polls now show the two candidates in a neck-and-neck race leading up to the decisive run-off vote. The most crucial factor in this election is the struggling economy, as Argentina is currently facing a severe economic crisis. With inflation surpassing an annual rate of 140%, voters and candidates alike prioritize stabilizing the country's finances. Lourdes Monjes, a shop owner in a poor neighborhood of Buenos Aires, describes the hardships faced by people who continuously find themselves unable to make ends meet. Isla Maciel, where Monjes's shop is located, resides near Argentina's largest port and is characterized by houses made of wood and corrugated iron. The area is decorated with murals of Juan Perón, the figure after whom Peronism is named, a populist political movement that championed the poor. With 40% of Argentines currently living in poverty, there is a strong demand for a new leader to deliver change. Massa, a former economy minister in the Peronist government, promises to take significant measures to improve Argentina's finances. However, critics argue that it was under his leadership that the economy reached its current dire state. On the other hand, Milei, an outsider to politics, proposes radical changes like abolishing the central bank and adopting the dollar as the national currency. He also advocates for liberalizing gun laws and restricting abortion rights. The growing desire for substantial change in Argentina, driven by increasing hardships, has boosted Milei's popularity. In the latest TV debate, he advocated for shaking up the status quo and presented the choice between stability and inflation, economic decline, or growth. Some compare Milei to former US President Donald Trump and Brazil's ex-leader Jair Bolsonaro, as they share similar free-market ideologies. However, economists argue that Milei's proposals are not viable, citing the importance of government planning and regulations in any successful country. Over 100 economists expressed their concerns in an open letter, warning that electing Milei would lead to economic disaster for Argentina. Massa attempts to leverage Milei's controversial campaign and lack of experience to his advantage. The next president, regardless of the outcome, will face significant challenges in lifting Argentina out of its economic crisis. This will involve tough adjustments, budget cuts, reducing state expenses, and is expected to come at a high cost. As the young boys play soccer near the port, their lives remain detached from the economic benefits of one of Argentina's major engines. People in the community express the need for political heroes who can rescue the country from its deep crisis.