Historic Summit: Trump and Milei Unite at Mar-a-Lago, Marking New Era in US-Argentina Relations
In a groundbreaking political gathering that signals shifting alliances in the Western Hemisphere, Argentine President Javier Milei became the first foreign leader to meet with President-elect Donald Trump since his recent election victory.
The high-profile meeting at Mar-a-Lago on November 14, 2024, brought together two strong personalities who share similar views on government spending and economic reform.
Milei, often called “the Lion” for his bold approach to politics, didn’t hold back his enthusiasm for Trump’s victory. Through an interpreter, he declared it “the greatest political comeback in all of history,” praising Trump for standing up to the political establishment “even at the risk of his own life.”
The star-studded gala at Mar-a-Lago featured notable guests, including Elon Musk, who has spent the past week advising Trump on cabinet selections. Musk’s presence wasn’t just ceremonial—he’s been tapped to lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency” alongside entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, though this won’t be an official federal agency.
The meeting highlights a growing alliance between three influential figures: Trump, Milei, and Musk. Their shared vision? Dramatic cuts to government spending. Musk believes he can trim $2 trillion from the U.S. federal budget of $6.75 trillion—a goal that mirrors Milei’s own achievements in Argentina.
Milei’s Track Record Speaks Volumes:
- Cut Argentina’s federal spending by 32%.
- The inflation rate has dropped to its lowest point since 2017.
- The number of government ministries was reduced from 22 to 9.
- Let go of over 30,000 public sector workers.
While these changes have led to a short-term economic downturn in Argentina, with GDP falling by 5% in early 2024, the World Bank predicts a strong recovery with 5% growth in 2025.
During the gala, Milei gave special recognition to Musk, thanking him for “the wonderful job he has been doing to save humanity.” Photographs of the three men together, all smiling, suggest a budding alliance between these influential leaders.
Looking Ahead: Milei’s visit extends through the CPAC Investor Summit, ending Saturday. He’s marketed his movement with black hats labeled “las Fuerzas del Cielo” (Forces from Heaven), similar to Trump’s MAGA merchandise. Trump acknowledged this connection, saying, “He’s a MAGA person… Make Argentina outstanding again.”
However, questions remain about whether such dramatic spending cuts could work in the U.S., given its much larger economy and different political landscape. Unlike Milei, who campaigned explicitly on spending cuts (even wielding a chainsaw at rallies), Trump’s recent campaign focused more on border security and economic growth through tax cuts and tariffs.
The meeting marks a significant moment in U.S.-Argentina relations and potentially signals a new approach to government spending and economic policy in the Americas.
As these leaders align their visions, the world watches to see how their shared ideologies might reshape the economic and political landscape of the Western Hemisphere.