The governor of Salta, Gustavo Sáenz , has made it clear that members of the provincial front he leads have free rein to support whatever political space they feel most aligned with during the upcoming National Legislative Elections on October 26 .
Sáenz emphasized that “the only limit is to always defend the province” , urging his political colleagues to respect the interests of Salta’s residents who elected them to represent their needs.
In light of this decision, there will not be a formal candidate list representing the provincial ruling party, which achieved a remarkable victory in the last local elections. During this election, the ruling front claimed victory by securing 11 out of 12 provincial Senate seats and 22 of the 30 deputy positions .
Interestingly, in the provincial capital, Freedom — a space mainly chaired by Alfredo Olmedo —has gained a noteworthy presence. President Javier Milei’s political party managed to secure 6 out of 10 seats in the local Chamber of Deputies, as well as the sole Senate seat up for grabs in the city of Salta.
This alliance comprises leaders from over 16 different political parties , covering a wide ideological spectrum that includes Peronism, Radicalism, PRO, and Libertarian views. What began as a collective effort in last local elections is now facing fragmentation as members vie for three Senate seats and three deputy positions in the National Congress .
Although Sáenz refrained from endorsing a specific candidate or party for the elections, he did note that “it seems that the debate is between the past and the present.”
“My commitment is to talk about the future and fulfill the mandate entrusted to me: to fight for Salta,” Sáenz concluded, making it evident that his focus lies on progress rather than nostalgia.
In recent developments, Juan Manuel Urtubey , a former governor of Salta, has announced his candidacy for National Senator through the Patria Force party. This party encompasses various Justicialist factions including Victory, Kolina, and others, asserting a more Kirchnerist direction within Peronism.
Urtubey described the formation of the Patria Force as a political maturation , signifying a unification across different factions aimed at addressing the negative impact of Milei’s government on both Salta and the country.
Late last month, Urtubey had hinted at his candidacy, which sparked mixed reactions from various factions within Peronism that had yet to organize a unified front or consider potential candidates.
Despite this, Urtubey asserted that many leaders from his coalition had approached him to lead the charge: “Many leaders and political parties that comprise the front asked me to take the lead, and there really is no room to back away.”
He highlighted the ethical dimension of his return to the political scene, noting that, from a personal standpoint, he might not have much to prove; however, he feels a sense of obligation to advocate for an Argentina that upholds citizens’ rights , given the perceived risks posed by the current governmental model.