Manuel Adorni has experienced a meteoric ascent in Argentina’s political landscape in recent years. In less than a year, the former journalist and economic columnist has gone from media commentator to Cabinet chief at the Casa Rosada, one of the most influential figures in any government. His rapid rise is illustrative of how important communication – and loyalty – are to the Javier Milei Presidency.
Born in Buenos Aires in 1972, Adorni studied economics at the University of Buenos Aires and developed a career in the media before entering politics. His specialty was economic analysis from a fiercely liberal perspective. Prior to taking office, the 53 year-old contributed to outlets including Radio Rivadavia, A24, Infobae and Noticias Argentinas, gaining a following among viewers who shared his critique of state interventionism.
When Milei took office in December 2023, Adorni was appointed presidential spokesman. From the lectern of the Casa Rosada’s press room, he became the government’s main messenger and chief public defender. His aggressive rebuttals and criticism of the opposition has turned him into one of the administration’s most visible figures.
Adorni’s message discipline and personal loyalty quickly made him part of the President’s inner circle. His promotion to Cabinet chief confirms that he has also won the trust of Milei’s sister and powerful Presidential Chief-of-Staff Karina Milei.
The former media talking head’s rise has been so swift that he will not take up the seat he won heading the La Libertad Avanza list for Buenos Aires City Legislature earlier this year. Opposition politicians have criticised Adorni for going back on his word, dubbing him one of many “testimonial candidates” put up by the ruling party who seem to be opting against taking their legislative posts.
Little is known about Adorni’s personal life, which he keeps largely out of the public eye. Known to enjoy video games, he is married to Bettina Angeletti, a Human Resources graduate and ontological coach, and they have two children, according to the post.
His past, however, has not been free of controversy. Critics have pointed to his brief stint as a public employee during the Mauricio Macri Presidency, when he served as “technical administrative coordinator” in the Culture Ministry between 2017 and 2018. For a figure who often rails against state bureaucracy, the role has been cited by some as a contradiction by some critics.
Adorni’s main task now is to coordinate the ministries and keep President Milei’s agenda on course. He will need to manage the complex machinery of the Cabinet and maintain cohesion across the administration. In public remarks, he has signalled that his focus will be on deepening Milei’s economic plan and ensuring that the government’s communication remains consistent.
– TIMES/NA
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