'First the Homeland': the K recycling that seeks to contain the disappointed

The recent launch of the "Primero la Patria" group aims to attract those disenchanted with Javier Milei's administration. However, its main figures are long-standing political leaders, such as the Cordobans Gabriela Estévez and Federico Alessandri, who have been linked to Kirchnerism and traditional Peronism.

Gabriela Estévez, national deputy for Córdoba since 2015, is a well-known activist of La Cámpora and has been a fervent defender of Cristina Kirchner's policies. Meanwhile, Federico Alessandri, current provincial legislator, comes from a family with strong roots in Delasotismo and has held positions such as mayor of Embalse for more than a decade.

This new group's proposal seeks to offer an alternative to those who feel disappointed with the current government. Nevertheless, it seems more like a reconfiguration of the same structures that have dominated Argentine politics in recent decades. The lack of new political actors and the repetition of familiar speeches cast doubt on this space's ability to represent true renewal.

Another failure looming?

The creation of "Primero la Patria" is presented as an attempt to revitalize Peronism and offer an option to those disenchanted with the current government. However, the presence of figures such as Estévez and Alessandri, with extensive political careers and ties to Kirchnerism, suggests that this is more of a recycling than a renewal.

To capture the interest of an increasingly critical citizenry, political spaces must offer authentic and innovative proposals. This includes showcasing new leadership, with credibility and distance from the traditional structures that caused distrust. Otherwise, groups like this may seem like a desperate rehash, further alienating voters who are seeking different and real options.

It is touching to see how the same old leaders disguise themselves as "novelty" to seduce those disenchanted with the current direction. Gabriela Estévez, a La Cámpora leader for more than a decade, promises to renew politics with the same ideas that have failed a thousand times. Federico Alessandri, heir to a distinguished Delasotismo surname, seems to have discovered that Peronism can also recycle its melancholy.

Instead of a real alternative, Peronism builds a refuge for old political figures who refuse to accept that the cycle is over and society can no longer stand them. However, it is worth recalling here the Napoleonic maxim that one should never interrupt an enemy while he is making a mistake. Apparently,  it is Kirchnerism that most desires the everlasting consolidation of Milei's model.