Leonel Fernandez vs Mauricio Macri

Fernández's first term (1996-2000) saw strong economic growth, averaging 7% annually. He pursued neoliberal policies, privatized state enterprises, and attracted foreign investment. The economy expanded, but inequality remained high.

Leonel Fern

Fernández was re-elected in 2004 after a banking crisis and economic downturn under his successor Hipólito Mejía. He won with 57% of the vote, promising to restore economic stability. His second term focused on fiscal discipline and infrastructure.

Fernández was re-elected for a third term in 2008, winning with 53% of the vote. His third term continued economic growth and infrastructure projects, but also faced criticism for corruption and authoritarian tendencies. He left office in 2012.

Fernández oversaw a major constitutional reform that reorganized the judiciary, established a Constitutional Court, and introduced new social rights. The reform also banned presidential re-election, though it was later amended. It was controversial and criticized for centralizing power.

Macri lifted capital and currency controls on his first day in office, allowing the peso to float freely. This aimed to attract foreign investment but led to a sharp devaluation and inflation spike.

Mauricio Macri won the 2015 Argentine general election, defeating Daniel Scioli. He became the first non-Peronist and non-Radical president since 1916, ending 12 years of Kirchnerist rule.

Macri's government signed a $57 billion standby agreement with the International Monetary Fund, the largest in IMF history. The loan aimed to stabilize the economy amid a currency crisis but imposed austerity measures.

Macri lost his re-election bid to Alberto Fern