Laura Raffo, former presidential candidate for the National Party, announced her resignation from Herrerismo. She sent a letter to Luis Alberto Heber, former Minister of the Interior, informing her of her decision. The decision was motivated by the announcement that she would not lead list 71 for the next elections. The news surprises the Uruguayan political scene.
“A pledge and commitment to the people are essential in politics,” Raffo said in his letter, outlining principles that guide his career. Raffo is seeking new horizons within the National Party and hopes that new developments will emerge soon, according to statements made by the newspaper El País. This situation is redefining the internal dynamics of the party.
The recent event was preceded by a meeting between Raffo, Heber and former president Lacalle Herrera. At this meeting, Raffo was notified that he had to occupy the second place on list 71, which was perceived as a failure to comply with previous commitments by the Herrera government.
Laura Raffo: Goodbye to the PN, hello to the PN
In his letter, Raffo made public that he would not be available to join the sector’s lists in the next elections. He thanked the support received from colleagues and friends from both the sector and the party in general. He expressed his intention to continue working for Uruguayans with a renewed positive attitude.
This change highlights a fracture within Herrerismo that will have repercussions on the National Party’s strategy towards the elections. Sebastián Da Silva’s offer to give up his place in Espacio País shows the recognition of the political value that Raffo retains and the efforts to place this “white asset” in a viable electoral position.
Sebastian Da Silva expressed his support for Raffo, calling her “infinitely more useful than me in Parliament.” Da Silva said that Raffo is highly valued, stressing the need to find her an important place in the party.
Offerings and opportunities in development
Sebastián Da Silva, senator for the National Party, stated his willingness to give up his place to Raffo on the list for the Senate of Country Space. He said: “Laura is a great woman. We have a generational commitment. It would be healthy if Luis Lacalle Pou’s generation… found a way for Laura to have a place.”
The notion of reconfiguring past successes shared with Raffo in various campaigns resonates in his words. Da Silva highlighted their previous collaboration in the LUC and the internal stage. Despite expressing his willingness, he clarified that he has not discussed the issue directly with Raffo.
“Laura is a white asset“, said Da Silva, stressing the imperative not to leave her without support. The situation is in the general focus of the party, seeking alternatives to ensure her continuity as a prominent figure on the political scene.