Overview

• After an emotional interview, José Luis Espert said he will not withdraw from the October 26 election and will present himself to the justice system.
• He acknowledged receiving a US$200,000 payment from Guatemala’s Minas del Pueblo and confirmed multiple trips on Federico “Fred” Machado’s plane as well as visits to his home.
• Security Minister Patricia Bullrich mistakenly called journalist Diego Iglesias to ask about Machado’s extradition, revealing direct ministerial interest in the case.
• Opposition and some allies urged Espert to step aside and called for his removal from the Budget Committee, with a vote to begin that process expected in the lower house this week.
• Campaign activity in Buenos Aires has slowed as Espert’s online image deteriorates, with one monitoring report measuring 86% negative mentions.