The rise of the penguins: analysing the trajectory of a peripheral elite in Argentina (1991–2003)

Abstract

ABSTRACT In recent years, there has been an increasing amount of research on subnational policies and multilevel studies. Nevertheless, much remains to be understood about how peripheral elites enter central institutions and succeed in exerting an influence in national politics. The present article illustrates these dynamics through the case of the so-called ‘penguins’ – that is, the group of leaders from the coalition called ‘Front for Victory’ (Frente para la Victoria [FPV]) from Patagonia that has been ruling Argentina since 2003. After analysing the profile of this marginal group led by Néstor Kirchner, we reflect on the reasons for its success. The present study makes three contributions to the literature. First, it shows how Argentina’s territorial reconfiguration of power facilitated a renewal of political elites. Second, it illustrates the fact that political paths in territorial tiers of government can be analysed collectively. And lastly, it highlights the role of social crises in stimulating changes that affect the very nature of political elites.