Argentina’s ‘Mini Milei’: Truck Driver Becomes Viral Sensation Through Presidential Resemblance
Diego Barreto, known by many nicknames, has leveraged his striking similarity to President Javier Milei into widespread fame and new opportunities.
Known by many monikers including “Milei Campero,” “Milei Chacarero,” “Milei del Agro,” “Milei del Campo,” “Milei de Gualeguay,” and “Mini Milei,” Diego Barreto prefers to call himself “Peluca Gualeyo” on Instagram, where he boasts over 20,000 followers.
Barreto, an Argentine living in the rural town of Gualeguay, Entre Ríos province, approximately 230 kilometers from Buenos Aires, saw his life begin to transform in December 2023, coinciding with Javier Milei’s ascent to the Argentine presidency.
A truck driver and rural worker by trade, Barreto has capitalized on his striking resemblance to the Argentine political leader, a role he appears to thoroughly enjoy. While his likeness to the original Milei was less pronounced years ago, growing his hair long and wild has made them nearly identical. Barreto stands slightly shorter than Javier Milei, but their similarity, including their light-colored eyes, is astonishing.
His videos have garnered thousands of views, propelling him to national popularity across Argentina. His current work now often involves attending paid events as Milei’s lookalike, a shift from his regular transport duties. Dozens of media outlets have sought to interview him, republishing his videos, which consistently attract significant viewership.
Enthusiasts claim Diego Barreto even mimics Javier Milei’s gestures, and the two have indeed connected. Meeting the Argentine president was a long-held aspiration for Barreto, realized through a radio station. While they did not meet in person, they exchanged greetings. This confirms Javier Milei is well aware of his doppelganger’s overwhelming popularity in the country.
The “Peluca Gualeyo” advises young people to work hard to build their future. He also expresses that he is “recontento” (very happy) with his resemblance to the occupant of the Casa Rosada, a likeness he is actively leveraging.
Barreto’s videos also generate a wide array of public comments. Some suggest “urgent DNA testing,” others dub him “the Entre Ríos clone,” while some remark that “agriculture is advancing” with him, or playfully alter Javier Milei’s usual slogan, “hello everyone, I am the lion,” to “hello everyone, I am the pawn.”
Diego Barreto certainly does not go unnoticed in Argentina, sparking strong reactions wherever he appears.
