01/07/2026 22:07 - Politica
Diego Santilli was sworn in on June 30, 2026 as Argentina's new Chief of Cabinet of Ministers (Jefe de Gabinete de Ministros) — a role similar to a Prime Minister or White House Chief of Staff — in a ceremony held at the Salón Blanco (White Hall) of the Casa Rosada, Argentina's presidential palace in Buenos Aires.
This appointment marks a significant shift toward pragmatism in President Milei's administration. Santilli, 59 years old, brings extensive experience as Vice-Chief of Government of Buenos Aires City (CABA) from 2015 to 2021 and most recently served as Minister of Interior since November 2025.
For international readers: The Chief of Cabinet (Jefe de Gabinete) is Argentina's second-most powerful official, responsible for coordinating all government ministries and managing legislative relations. Buenos Aires City (CABA) is an autonomous federal district, similar to Washington D.C. or Mexico City.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by 14 governors from across Argentina, demonstrating unified support:
| Province | Governor |
|---|---|
| Catamarca | Raúl Jalil |
| Chaco | Leandro Zdero |
| Corrientes | Juan Pablo Valdez |
| Jujuy | Carlos Sadir |
| Mendoza | Alfredo Cornejo |
| Neuquén | Rolo Figueroa |
| Río Negro | Alberto Weretilneck |
| San Juan | Marcelo Orrego |
| Santa Cruz | Claudio Vidal |
| Tucumán | Osvaldo Jaldo |
| Entre Ríos | Rogelio Frigerio |
| Salta | Gustavo Sáenz |
| Buenos Aires City | Jorge Macri |
| Córdoba | Martín Llaryora |
Manuel Adorni resigned on June 27, 2026 after an investigation revealed an astronomical 775% increase in his declared wealth, jumping from $20 million pesos to $944 million pesos.
Key findings of the investigation:
Prosecutor Gerardo Pollicita is leading the investigation, awaiting reports from the Financial Analysis Unit (DAF) before potentially requesting formal charges.
| Position | Name | Background |
|---|---|---|
| Chief of Cabinet | Diego Santilli | Former Vice-Chief of Buenos Aires City Government (2015-2021) |
| Deputy Chief Executive | Ignacio Devitt | Newly created position |
| Vice-Minister of Interior | Gustavo Coria | Replaces Santilli as head of the Ministry |
| Presidential Spokesperson | Adrián Ravier | Economist, new communications role |
The new Chief of Cabinet takes office in a favorable economic environment:
Central Bank (BCRA) purchases in 2026
International reserves
Trade surplus (Jan-May 2026)
Pending legislative agenda: Political reform (elimination of PASO primaries), Clean Record Law (Ley de Ficha Limpia), expanded RIGI investment regime, private property protections, and regulatory reforms known as "Sturzenegger's reforms."
Santilli's arrival signals a more conciliatory and negotiation-focused approach. With his proven track record in government management and established relationships with the PRO party and other political groups, his primary mission will be to secure legislative agreements and restore public trust following Adorni's scandal. Karina Milei, the President's sister and key political operator, continues to oversee national and provincial political strategy.
Sources: Casa Rosada Official Gazette, Ministry of Interior, Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA) official data.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
