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Santilli Sworn In as Argentina's New Chief of Cabinet Amid Political Shakeup

01/07/2026 21:39 - Politica

A Historic Moment at Argentina's Pink House

On June 30, 2026 at 5:30 PM, Diego Santilli was sworn in as Argentina's new Chief of Cabinet of Ministers—the country's second most powerful government position after the President. The ceremony took place in the Salón Blanco (White Hall) of the Casa Rosada (Pink House), Argentina's equivalent to the White House in the United States.

What caught everyone's attention was a striking image: a triple embrace between President Javier Milei, former spokesperson Manuel Adorni, and Santilli. This gesture was particularly notable because Adorni had resigned just three days earlier on June 27, 2026, following revelations about a 775% increase in his personal wealth.

Santilli's Message About Adorni

During his first press conference as Chief of Cabinet, Santilli addressed his predecessor's situation directly: "He will go to defend justice, due process, and the privilege of proving his innocence before the courts", he stated regarding the investigations Adorni now faces.

Santilli emphasized that Adorni voluntarily attended the ceremony, sending a clear message that the former spokesperson intends to face legal proceedings rather than flee the country.

Key Figure

775%

Patrimonial increase under investigation for Adorni

Provincial Governors in Attendance

The ceremony was attended by 14 provincial governors from various political parties, demonstrating broad support for the government's new direction:

Province Governor
CatamarcaRaúl Jalil
ChacoLeandro Zdero
CorrientesJuan Pablo Valdez
JujuyCarlos Sadir
MendozaAlfredo Cornejo
NeuquénRolo Figueroa
Río NegroAlberto Weretilneck
San JuanMarcelo Orrego
Santa CruzClaudia Vidal
TucumánOsvaldo Jaldo
Entre RíosRogelio Frigerio
SaltaGustavo Sáenz
Buenos Aires CityJorge Macri
CórdobaMartín Llaryora

Who is Diego Santilli?

  • Age: 59 years old
  • Previous role: Minister of Interior (since November 2025)
  • Experience: Deputy Mayor of Buenos Aires City (2015-2021)
  • Political party: PRO (center-right party)
  • 2025 Election: Obtained 41.5% of votes in Buenos Aires Province

New Government Appointments

Ignacio Devitt will become the new vice-chief of the Cabinet, while Gustavo Coria will assume as vice-minister of Interior. Adrián Ravier has been designated as the new presidential spokesperson, replacing Adorni.

The Adorni Scandal Explained

Manuel Adorni's resignation followed an investigation revealing a 775% increase in his personal wealth—from approximately $20 million Argentine pesos to $944 million. Key findings include:

  • USD 245,000 in undeclared payments for renovations at a country club property (Indio Cuá), reported by contractor Matías Tabar
  • USD 500,000 in undeclared cryptocurrency
  • $139 million in credit card charges between December 2023 and March 2026

Prosecutor Gerardo Pollicita awaits the DAFI (Financial Investigation Office) report before potentially requesting formal questioning. The case remains under investigation.

What This Means for Argentina's Political Future

Santilli's appointment signals a shift toward political pragmatism in President Milei's administration, aiming to rebuild relationships with provincial governors and advance pending legislative reforms. Key agenda items include:

  • Electoral reform
  • Elimination of PASO (Primary, Open, Simultaneous and Mandatory elections—Argentina's unique primary system)
  • Ley de Lemas (a vote-counting system that allows parties to form alliances)
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Alfredo S. Quiroga