Following tense anticipation, Argentina's National Senate approved the 2026 Budget on December 26 with 46 votes in favor, 25 against, and one abstention, achieving the first fiscal balance in decades despite opposition criticism over cuts to education and science funding. The ruling party hailed the milestone, while opponents decried impacts on key sectors.
The Senate session, convened as scheduled past noon on December 26, 2025, culminated in approval of the 2026 Budget—a key win for President Javier Milei's government. The bill, projecting $148 trillion in spending, 10.1% inflation, a $1,423 dollar rate, and 5% GDP growth, passed on general terms with 46 yes votes, 25 no, and one abstention. Controversial Chapter 2, including Article 30 removing minimum funding floors for education, science, technical education, and defense, was approved 42-28 with two abstentions.
Ruling bloc leaders, including La Libertad Avanza and UCR allies, defended the budget as essential for stability. Patricia Bullrich declared: "We are not voting just another law; we are defining if Argentina believes in itself again." Interior Minister Diego Santilli added: "We have a balanced Budget for Argentina." Milei celebrated on social media: "Viva la libertad carajo," sharing a voting photo.
Opposition from Unión por la Patria, led by José Mayans, slammed the bill as "nefasto" and a "big lie," highlighting provincial impacts and funding reductions. Eduardo 'Wado' de Pedro called Article 30 "shameful," citing a 45% education funding drop under Milei. Some allies like UCR's Maximiliano Abad and Flavio Fama backed the general text but opposed Chapter 2.
The marathon session with over 30 speakers saw verbal clashes and a minor incident involving spilled water. Post-approval, debate shifted to the Innocence Fiscal Law, strengthening Milei's position before recess.
