The construction of the bases of the predominant power of subnational radicalism: Río Negro (1987-1991)

Abstract

Since the creation of the province of Río Negro -1955- the Radical Civic Union governed, successively, through the two parties formed by the division that occurred after the 'Liberating Revolution' —1955—: The Intransigent Radical Civic Union (UCRI) —1958-1962— and the People's Radical Civic Union (RCRP) —1963-1966— in a national electoral context with Peronism being outlawed, the Peronism only governed between 1973-1976. The objective of the article is to account for the process of 'hegemonic and pragmatic construction' of radicalism in Río Negro, which began with the first government of Horacio Massaccesi —1987-1991—, leaving the bases/pillars of the UCR's predominance for more than two decades —28 years—. The political events and actions on which we will focus, analyzing the political practices deployed by leaders of the Renovation and Change Movement (MRyC), allow us to elucidate the political project. The incorporation/co-optation strategies of both former leaders of the National Line and Peronist leaders from the south of the province, who joined the proposal for a more integrated territory, made it possible for them to stand in the 1987 elections as a 'unit of force'.