In Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Senate dealt a significant setback to President Javier Milei on Thursday by rejecting his two Supreme Court nominations. This decision is seen as a potential hindrance to Milei’s sweeping state reforms. Political analysts note that Milei was keen to have these vacancies filled with individuals who might align with his economic overhaul plans.
Earlier in February, Milei decided to bypass Congress in appointing two Supreme Court candidates. He invoked a constitutional clause, suggesting it gave him the authority to fill the seats during the legislative summer break. The move drew heavy criticism, with many viewing it as an overextension of executive power. Critics argued that the president has limited capabilities when it comes to judicial appointments during congressional recesses.
Senator Anabel Fernández Sagasti from the Unión por la Patria party voiced strong opposition, labeling Milei’s move an “institutional assault.” She emphasized that the executive branch had initiated a deep-seated conflict with the legislative and judicial sectors of the government.
Milei’s two nominees, federal judge Ariel Lijo and conservative law professor Manuel García-Mansilla, had already failed previously to obtain the necessary two-thirds Senate majority. At present, the president’s libertarian coalition controls only 7 of the 72 Senate seats. Employing a presidential decree, Milei sought to fill these seats on the five-judge court, pushing the boundaries of his executive powers amidst his congressional minority.
Lijo’s candidacy has sparked considerable debate due to accusations of money laundering, abuse of power, and delaying graft cases—claims he has refuted. Harsher criticism came from centrist parties, with legislator Luis Juez humorously dubbing him after a well-known Argentine hypnotist with the suggestion that he “puts judicial cases to sleep” when it benefits political leaders.
García-Mansilla’s nomination faced resistance from the more leftist Peronist movement, due to his conservative social views, especially on issues like abortion. Ultimately, the Senate vote was decisive: Lijo garnered 43 “no” votes against 27 “yes,” and García-Mansilla received 51 votes against him, with only 21 in favor.
Despite the result, Milei staunchly defended his nominees, accusing lawmakers of politicizing the process. He condemned the Senate’s action, claiming it was motivated by politics rather than a genuine assessment of suitability. In a statement, his office expressed regret over the Senate’s decision and emphasized that leaving court vacancies undermines justice. It also affirmed Milei’s commitment to restoring public trust using constitutional means.
Meanwhile, others saw the Senate’s decision as a triumph for Argentina’s democracy. Juan Pappier, a notable human rights advocate, praised the Senate for blocking what he described as a severe threat to judicial independence. He asserted that President Milei’s actions jeopardized the fundamental checks and balances essential to Argentina’s democratic fabric.