The controversy surrounding Chief of Staff Manuel Adorni over his wife’s trip to the United States as part of the presidential delegation escalated quickly in the Argentine news cycle, eventually forcing government members to come to his defense.

The revelation sparked criticism from the opposition and created an awkward situation for an administration that typically touts austerity as one of its key political strengths.

The discussion quickly spread to social media and the libertarian political sphere after Adorni’s explanations did not end the scandal. 

The chief of staff said that his wife’s presence did not entail any additional expense for the government and that she had been invited to board the presidential plane following changes to the travel itinerary. 

The ruling party, however, reacted swiftly. Officials, leaders, and prominent figures began posting messages of support on social media — Casa Rosada officials describe the move as “spontaneous,” though in practice it sought to prevent one........

© Buenos Aires Herald