Argentina's Peronists set for run-off against libertarian

Ruling coalition’s lead in polls defies expectations of win by far-right radical

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BUENOS AIRES Argentina’s ruling Peronist coalition smashed expectations to lead the country’s general election on Sunday.

It set the stage for a polarised run-off vote in November between centrist Peronist Economy Minister Sergio Massa and far-right libertarian radical Javier Milei.

Mr Massa had more than 36.6 per cent of the vote, ahead of Mr Milei with just over 30 per cent.

Conservative Patricia Bullrich was behind on 23.8 per cent, with nearly 98 per cent of the vote counted.

The result has defied pre-election polls that had predicted a libertarian win.

The surprise strength of the Peronists, despite overseeing inflation hitting triple digits for the first time since 1991, sets up an intriguing second round on Nov 19 between two polar opposite economic models for the embattled country.

The result eases concerns about a radical shift in policies in the event of a decisive win for Mr Milei, who has proposed dollarising the economy and shutting the central bank. But it still leaves the country with few answers to its worst economic crisis in two decades.

Argentines had flocked to the polls on Sunday amid the country’s worst economic crisis in two decades and rising anger with the traditional elite.