BUENOS AIRES, Argentina -- Manuel Adorni, President Javier Milei’s Cabinet chief and a prominent figure in the libertarian government, resigned Saturday amid a corruption scandal that has cast a shadow over the administration's core promise to eradicate political corruption. Adorni, who served as Milei’s spokesperson and was a public face of the government’s austerity measures, was one of the president's most trusted and long-standing allies.
Adorni faces a federal investigation for illicit enrichment, stemming from allegations of extravagant spending that critics likened to the conduct of the left-leaning populist opposition Milei has frequently denounced. He denies any wrongdoing. The scandal has dominated headlines in recent months, drawing scrutiny to Adorni’s real estate acquisitions and extensive travel.
In his resignation letter, posted to social media, Adorni stated, “For the first time since December 10, 2023, I am going against your wishes.” He thanked Milei for his trust and support through what Adorni described as an “unjust, painful and exhausting process.”
Adorni’s personal finances came under public review in March when his wife accompanied him on the presidential aircraft for a conference in New York. Shortly thereafter, footage emerged of the family traveling via private jet to Uruguay’s Punta del Este resort. Local media reported that Adorni purchased two properties in Buenos Aires and outside the city since Milei took office. He was also reportedly seen on luxury vacations, including an all-cash trip to Aruba.
According to his public financial disclosures, Adorni’s monthly salary was approximately $2,600 until late last year. When questioned by lawmakers and journalists, Adorni struggled to reconcile his modest earnings with his reported spending. He initially maintained he had committed no crimes, but he later admitted to purchasing dollars on Argentina’s black market and failing to declare $500,000 in savings to tax authorities. He asserted that the funds were legitimately earned through investments, including cryptocurrency.
Prior to his resignation, President Milei had publicly defended Adorni. During a recent visit to Spain, Milei told local media, “Manuel is innocent. I stand by my ministers to the bitter end.” Karina Milei, the president’s sister and top adviser, acknowledged Adorni’s service, calling him an "upright, valuable and much-loved" member of their party.
The departure of Adorni, who wielded significant influence over negotiations with provincial governors and within Congress, leaves a vacancy in a key administration post. It remains unclear who will succeed him as Cabinet chief.