Overview
- The Senate approved Lamelas as part of a bundle of nominees by a 51–47 vote, enabled by a new Republican process allowing in‑block confirmations.
- The U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires publicly welcomed his confirmation and signaled readiness for his arrival once formalities are completed.
- Lamelas, a Cuban‑born physician and founder of Florida’s MD Now urgent care network, is a major Republican donor with no prior diplomatic experience and a personal rapport with President Javier Milei.
- After the vote, he said he aims to align U.S. and Argentine interests, reduce trade barriers, and encourage American investment, while maintaining a hard line against the influence of China, Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua and Iran.
- His July testimony drew criticism in Argentina over comments about Cristina Fernández de Kirchner and pledges to press provinces on Chinese deals, prompting a letter of concern from Kirchnerist lawmakers; reports estimate he could arrive in late October or early November.