Milei’s Promise to Reject Funding for Argentine Public Hospitals Could Lead to Midterm Backlash

Argentine President Javier Milei’s decision to veto increased funding for public hospitals has led to significant public discontent, potentially jeopardizing his political standing ahead of the October 2025 midterm elections. While he has succeeded in reducing inflation to below 30% annually, his stringent public spending cuts have strained the healthcare system, particularly affecting the Garrahan Children’s Hospital in Buenos Aires.

The Garrahan hospital, known for its pediatric care, has seen a 10% reduction in staff this year. Although the opposition-controlled Congress approved an additional $98 million for health funding, Milei intends to veto this measure to uphold fiscal discipline. This decision has elicited widespread disapproval, with polls showing that 68% of Argentines oppose the veto. Additionally, confidence in Milei’s administration has waned, with his approval ratings dropping below 40% for the first time since taking office.

Despite a proposed 10% budget increase for Garrahan in 2025, it falls short of the projected inflation rate of 27.3%, leading to difficulties in maintaining quality care. Staff reductions and wage erosion have pushed many healthcare workers to seek better-paying positions in the private sector. Critics argue that these funding cuts disproportionately impact lower-income citizens, nearly 40% of whom depend on public healthcare services.

The government’s healthcare funding policies have become a critical issue as the midterm elections approach. Voters are closely monitoring how Milei’s fiscal strategies affect essential services like healthcare. The outcome of the elections could significantly shape the administration’s ability to enforce its economic agenda and address growing public concerns regarding healthcare accessibility and quality.