Bessent brands Warren a ‘Peronist’ after Argentina criticism

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has dubbed Senator Elizabeth Warren (Democrat-Massachusetts) a “Peronist” for her insistence on knowing more details of the financial aid to Argentina.

The tussle between the Donald Trump administration and the Democratic opposition unfolds within the current partial shutdown of the US government entering into its fourth week. 

Warren is one of the legislators most actively criticising the Argentina "bailout," in her words, at a time when hundreds of thousands of federal officials are not picking up their salaries due to the shutdown.

In a letter sent to the senator, Bessent repeats that it is not a bailout but support for an important Washington ally in Latin America.

"The Exchange Stabilization Fund provides particular support for a key ally undertaking fiscally responsible policies," explains the Secretary in the letter dated October 21.

"It’s not surprising, given her Peronist viewpoint on government and freedom, that this kind of action causes her great anxiety," he added.

Bessent further asks the senator to approve maintaining Budget spending after 11 failed votes in the Senate due to Democratic opposition.

The senator, well-known for forming part of the left wing of her party, replied that same day with another letter citing media and social networks which affirm that the United States has already bought Argentine pesos on the market to the tune of around US$600 million.

Warren asked Secretary Bessent to detail the exact amount and what Treasury strategy might be if peso devaluation continues.

–  TIMES/AFP