Argentine Senate Defies Presidential Decrees as University Funding Triumphs

Argentina's Senate rejected President Milei's financial decrees, boosting public university funding instead. The opposition-led Congress secured a budget increase for universities and health, challenging Milei's austerity efforts. Despite Milei's fiscal adjustments, his government faces legislative obstacles from a minority position, impacting his inflation control measures.

In a striking setback for Argentine President Javier Milei, the Senate has dismissed his series of presidential decrees, favoring instead increased budget allocations for public universities. The vote signals a decisive push by the opposition-controlled Congress to override Milei's austere economic policies.

The legislative body has approved enhanced funding that benefits national universities, including raises for university staff. An increase in the health budget was also on the table, with discussions focusing on a two-year pediatric emergency measure. Opposition Senator Alejandra Vigo, from the Peronist alliance, emphasized the vital role of public universities in Argentina's national identity.

Milei's libertarian administration, wielding a minority in both houses, is facing repeated legislative defeats, including in matters of fiscal restraint. This week, opposition forces successfully revenged a veto on subsidies for the disabled, illustrating the ongoing conflict in a Congress rife with partisan interests.

(With inputs from agencies.)