Controversial Proposals in Argentina for Press Access Under Milei Administration

Argentina’s presidency is proposing a voting system for selecting journalists covering events and exploring a mute button for persistent questioners. These plans have stirred comparisons to former President Trump’s media strategies. Presidential spokesman Manuel Adorni indicated that changes to media access are forthcoming, aiming for greater public representation.

Argentina’s presidential administration is contemplating a controversial initiative that would allow voters to select the journalists permitted to cover President Javier Milei’s public engagements. Additionally, the idea of a “mute” button to silence persistent questioners has surfaced. Manuel Adorni, Milei’s spokesman, initially denied its existence but humorously noted its potential usefulness in the press room.

Adorni elaborated that the administration is indeed considering changes to media access at the presidential palace. He mentioned plans for a voting system where members of the presidential press pool could be elected by the public, emphasizing that such a measure would enhance representation for the citizens.

On social media, Adorni engaged with the public by posing questions about preferred journalists in the press room. These proposals have drawn parallels with former President Donald Trump’s attempts to alter media access protocols, reflecting a similar adversarial stance towards the press. Last month, the White House announced it would control journalist accreditation rather than using the independent media association established for nearly a century.

Milei, like Trump, has avoided conventional media and primarily communicates with voters through social media. In his time in office, he has not convened any press conferences, further emphasizing his preference for direct interaction with his supporters online.

The Argentine administration led by President Javier Milei is considering a significant reform to press access, allowing citizens to influence which journalists cover the presidency. Additionally, the concept of a mute button for persistent reporters has emerged as a potential approach to managing press interactions. These initiatives draw notable comparisons to the media access strategies of former President Trump, highlighting ongoing tensions between government and mainstream media. The administration’s direct engagement via social media marks a substantial shift in political communication.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com