On April 3, 2025, Argentina’s Senate dealt a significant blow to President Javier Milei’s administration by rejecting his nominees for the Supreme Court. The candidates, federal judge Ariel Lijo and academic Manuel García-Mansilla, were appointed by presidential decree in February, bypassing the Senate’s constitutional role in the appointment process.
Controversial Appointments
President Milei’s decision to appoint Lijo and García-Mansilla by decree during the legislative recess was met with widespread criticism. Legal experts, opposition politicians, and human rights organizations questioned the constitutionality of this approach, arguing that it undermined judicial independence and circumvented the Senate’s approval role.
Senate’s Rejection
The Senate exercised its constitutional authority by rejecting the appointments. García-Mansilla’s nomination was voted down 51 to 20, while Lijo’s faced a 43 to 27 vote, with one abstention. Notably, some conservative senators joined opposition ranks to oppose the nominations, highlighting bipartisan concerns over the president’s approach.
Government’s Response
In reaction to the Senate’s decision, President Milei’s office condemned the vote, accusing legislators of obstructing the nation’s progress. The administration argued that bypassing the Senate was necessary to ensure the Supreme Court’s functionality, given the vacancies hindering its operations.
Implications for Judicial Independence
The controversy surrounding the appointments has sparked a broader debate about judicial independence in Argentina. Human rights organizations have expressed concern that attempts to bypass constitutional procedures could set a dangerous precedent, potentially undermining the separation of powers.
Looking Ahead
The Senate’s rejection of President Milei’s Supreme Court nominees underscores the complex interplay between the executive and legislative branches in Argentina’s political system. As the nation approaches mid-term elections, these events may influence voter sentiment and the political landscape, adding a new layer of complexity to the upcoming electoral process.
