Argentina’s World Cup triumph in December 2022 prompted a predictable outpouring of national joy. But, the feeling was to be short-lived as the country reels from a devastating drought that is exacerbating one of the country’s periodic economic crises.
The inflation rate is over 100%. The economy is flatlining. More than a third of the country is in poverty. Talks are ongoing to restructure the country’s $44bn IMF bailout. Meanwhile, approval of the Peronist government is barely in double digits.
Against this backdrop, Argentina prepares to go to the polls. On August 13th, all potential candidates will participate in a single, national primary election that will winnow down the field to a single standard-bearer for each party or electoral coalition. The first round of the Presidential election proper will take place on October 22nd. Current President, Alberto Fernández, announced earlier this year that he would not seek re-election.
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