Javier Milei: A Self-Styled “Economic Nostradamus” in Argentina
In his new docuseries, Argentine President Javier Milei presents himself as the “Nostradamus of the economy.” The series explores his rise from a media personality to the presidency through bold rhetoric, archival footage, and his controversial economic views.
Javier Milei’s journey to the Argentine presidency began in 2015, when he first appeared on television, introducing himself as an “academic and teacher” of economics. Yet, even in those early appearances, the man who would become Argentina’s president hinted at something more, declaring himself a “rockstar.” The series “Milei, la serie,” launched on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), chronicles Milei’s transformation from an outspoken libertarian economist to the country’s leader.
The first episode, which has already garnered over 312,000 views, provides a dramatized look at Milei’s career trajectory, heavily relying on audiovisual archives from public events and television shows. Santiago Oría, the director of Audiovisual Production for the Argentine presidency and responsible for the series, encouraged viewers to amplify its reach with an emotional post on X: “Activate to the MAXIMUM!!!” The message was reposted by Milei himself, underscoring how closely the president is involved in shaping his public persona.
The docuseries is more than just a chronicle of Milei’s rise—it’s an ode to his vision for Argentina’s economic future. Milei portrays himself as a lone truth-teller who has consistently warned against the country’s economic missteps. The series aims to cement his reputation as a prophetic figure, likening his predictions to those of Nostradamus as he critiques the monetary policies of past Argentine governments.
Argentina’s Economic Decline Through Milei’s Lens
The series takes a sweeping view of Argentina’s economic history, with Milei as the narrator. His interpretation is straightforward: Argentina, once one of the wealthiest countries in the world, has fallen into decline because of misguided economic policies, particularly the establishment of the country’s central bank. Milei contends that the creation of the Central Bank was nothing short of an “economic scam” that sent Argentina down a path of financial ruin.
Milei’s economic philosophy is rooted in anarcho-capitalism, a far-right libertarian ideology that advocates for minimal market government intervention. Throughout the series, he frames his rise as a necessary correction to decades of failed policies, blaming previous governments for fostering a culture of economic mismanagement. He praises the neoliberal policies of former President Carlos Menem (1989-1999), particularly his decision to implement a currency “convertibility” plan that pegged the Argentine peso to the U.S. dollar. Milei said this was “the best thing that ever happened to Argentina.”
However, his praise for Menem contrasts with his criticism of more recent leaders. While he acknowledges former President Mauricio Macri, a political ally, as a man with “good ideas,” Milei condemns Macri’s gradualist economic approach. The series highlights Milei’s frequent appearances on television during Macri’s presidency, where he predicted the eventual failure of Macri’s policies—a prediction that, according to the series, solidified Milei’s reputation as the “Nostradamus of the economy.”
An Unfiltered Political Persona
A vital element of the docuseries is the depiction of Milei’s larger-than-life persona. He is shown wielding a chainsaw, delivering impassioned speeches, and even making theatrical appearances. The series emphasizes his unfiltered, often combative style, which has captivated most Argentine electorate. His bluntness and irreverence, once considered controversial, are now central to his political brand.
Milei’s appeal lies in his ability to connect with everyday Argentines who are disillusioned with traditional political parties. His fiery rhetoric, humor, and refusal to conform to political norms have turned him into a mass phenomenon. In rallies and public events, Milei presents himself as a politician and a revolutionary figure challenging the status quo. His rise is portrayed as a heroic journey, a narrative that resonates with a population weary of economic hardship.
The docuseries shows Milei engaging with his supporters, many of whom see him as a champion of individual freedoms and a defender of free markets. His theatrical style—whether waving a chainsaw during a rally or making inflammatory comments on television—has helped him cultivate a devoted following. While his critics dismiss him as a populist with radical ideas, the series positions him as a necessary disruptor in a country that, according to Milei, has lost its way.
Social Media as a Political Tool
Milei’s reliance on social media, particularly X, is a defining feature of his presidency. Milei and his team have used social media as their primary means of communication, bypassing traditional media outlets. The “Milei, la serie” launch on X continues this strategy. Social media allows Milei to communicate directly with his base, shaping the narrative around his presidency and policies without interference from critics or journalists.
Since assuming office, Milei has embraced platforms like X, owned by Elon Musk, to engage with his supporters. The platform’s short, fast-paced messaging format suits Milei’s style, allowing him to deliver concise, impactful statements. Whether it’s rallying support for his policies or responding to criticism, social media has become his tool for reaching the public.
The first episode of the docuseries demonstrates how Milei uses social media to his advantage. By releasing the series online, he controls the distribution of his message, ensuring that it reaches the intended audience without the filter of traditional media. This direct engagement with his followers has solidified his image as a president who is in touch with the people and willing to challenge the political establishment.
The Economic Reformer or Populist Messiah?
While “Milei, la serie” paints the Argentine president as a prophetic figure who predicted the country’s economic troubles, not everyone shares this view. Critics argue that Milei’s policies are overly simplistic and could further destabilize the Argentine economy. His advocacy for dollarization—replacing the Argentine peso with the U.S. dollar—has been met with skepticism, with some economists warning that such a move could lead to increased inequality and loss of monetary sovereignty.
Furthermore, Milei’s opposition to Argentina’s Central Bank and his calls for its abolition have raised concerns about the long-term viability of his economic plan. While his supporters see him as a visionary leader capable of restoring Argentina’s former glory, his detractors worry that his radical ideas could exacerbate the country’s economic woes.
The series portrays Milei as a hero fighting against the forces of economic decay. Still, his critics suggest that his solutions may be too extreme for a country that needs pragmatic, measured reforms. While his libertarian ideals may appeal to specific population sectors, the broader question remains whether these ideas can be successfully implemented in a country with deep-seated economic challenges.
The Making of a Political Icon
In “Milei, la serie,” the Argentine president is not just a political figure—he is portrayed as a larger-than-life character, a self-styled economic Nostradamus who has consistently predicted the country’s financial struggles. The series is part of a broader strategy to solidify Milei’s status as a transformative leader who offers radical solutions to Argentina’s longstanding problems.
However, as the series progresses, it will be important to see how it addresses Milei’s challenges and criticisms. His rise has been meteoric, but the real test lies in whether his policies can deliver the results his supporters expect. In a country as politically and economically complex as Argentina, the line between visionary leadership and populism can be thin.
Also read: Argentina’s Inflation Eases Amid Milei’s Austerity Measures
As “Milei, la serie” continues to unfold, it will likely further fuel the debate over his presidency, his economic agenda, and his impact on Argentina’s future. Whether seen as a prophet or a populist, one thing is sure: Milei has captured the attention of a nation—and the world—by positioning himself as the man who predicted Argentina’s fall and promises to lead its resurgence.
