The Argentine government, under President Javier Milei, is advancing a legislative initiative aimed at abolishing the primary elections known as PASO, which were originally instated by former President Néstor Kirchner after the 2009 legislative election defeat. This proposed reform seeks to eliminate what the government refers to as the 'curros' or abuses present in the current political party financing law enacted in the wake of the 2001 economic crisis.

Key cabinet members have confirmed that the proposal will be presented when President Milei deems appropriate, and there is speculation that he may mention this initiative in an upcoming speech this Sunday. By removing the PASO and halting public funding for political parties, the Milei administration aims to promote private financing, which they believe will lead to a more transparent political funding system and reduce governmental expenditures.

The implications of this shift could be significant for the Argentine political landscape, as it could alter the competition dynamics among political parties and potentially favor those with more substantial private backing. If enacted, this reform might also enable a more streamlined electoral process but raises concerns about the potential impact on democratic representation and campaign equity among lesser-funded or smaller parties.