Federico Finchelstein on Javier Milei, Trumpism, and the Rise of Wannabe Fascism

Javier Milei: A "Mini Trump" in Argentina

• 🇦🇷 Javier Milei is described as a "mini Trump," an admirer and imitator of Trump's global "wannabe fascist" trend.
• 💡 Despite claiming to be a libertarian, Milei's economic policies are characterized as standard austerity measures, lacking the freedom aspect often associated with libertarianism.
• ⚠️ Milei's administration has implemented currency controls and austerity, leading to increased poverty and income inequality in Argentina.

US Support and Ideological Connections

• 🇺🇸 The US government's decision to bail out Argentina, despite a general trend of reduced global aid, is seen as ideologically driven due to the connection between Milei and Trump.
• 🤝 While Trump's policies are US-centered, the support for Milei suggests a strategic alliance, especially as Argentina becomes a key US ally.
• 💰 There's a possibility that US-based bondholders, including potential Trump donors, are benefiting from these bailouts, prioritizing financial interests over voters' interests.

Milei's Controversies and Political Style

• 🔗 Milei's political style is marked by "typical Trumpist policies of hatred," including homophobia and misogyny, alongside attacks on universities.
• 📢 Argentines have shown strong public opposition through street protests, forcing Milei to backtrack on some of his more controversial statements and actions.
• 📉 Provincial election losses indicate Milei's precarious political standing, especially with upcoming midterm elections.

Cryptocurrency and Corruption Concerns

• ₿ Milei's obsession with cryptocurrency and personal investments raise suspicions, particularly concerning potential corruption and a "crypto pyramid" scheme promoted via tweet.
• 💰 Allegations of corruption extend to Milei's sister, who reportedly receives kickbacks, undermining his anti-politics message.
• 🚫 The merging of cryptocurrency with deregulation and the weakening of state capacity is viewed with suspicion, especially given crypto's historical links to crime and avoidance of control.

The Nature of "Wannabe Fascism"

• 🧠 "Wannabe fascism" is distinguished from full fascism by societal reactions, including protests and institutional checks, which can prevent leaders from reaching their ultimate goals.
• 🇧🇷 The comparison is drawn to Brazil's former president Bolsonaro, who also imitated Trump, lost elections, and attempted a coup, contrasting with Milei's current situation.
• ⚖️ Unlike Bolsonaro, who has been convicted, Milei's actions and the US's response send a message that "everything goes," potentially enabling corruption and unconstitutional acts.

Societal Factors and Demand for Hate

• 💔 Fascist leaders often sell hatred rather than material improvements, appealing to a sense of superiority, especially during economic crises.
• 🗳️ While not everyone is a market for hatred, economic hardship can drive people towards anti-democratic choices, though this process can be slow and damaging.
• 🏛️ Argentina's history of dictatorships and a strong tradition of public suspicion towards politicians contribute to a political culture where corruption and lies are met with resistance, unlike in the US where institutions might be more easily manipulated.