When posters went up around La Yacata, I had to stop and do a double-take. I had heard there were going to be elections, but honestly, I hadn’t paid much attention. So, I thought I’d do a little research and share with you what I found out.
On June 1, 2025, Mexico is holding its first-ever national judicial elections. This historic event enables citizens to vote directly for nearly 2,700 judicial positions, including all nine Supreme Court justices, circuit court magistrates, district judges, and members of the newly established Judicial Disciplinary Tribunal.
This unprecedented reform, initiated by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and continued under President Claudia Sheinbaum, aims to democratize the judiciary and combat corruption. However, it has sparked significant controversy. Critics express concerns that electing judges could undermine judicial independence and open the door to political influence and organized crime within the courts. I’m not sure how relevant this concern is, since if a candidate is not to the local crime syndicate’s liking, they are removed permanently before or after the elections anyway.
The election process has also faced criticism for its complexity and lack of transparency. With over 7,700 candidates vying for positions, voters have reported confusion due to limited information about the candidates and the absence of traditional campaigning, as political parties are prohibited from endorsing judicial candidates. A few candidates have a bit of notoriety and are a little more well-known, such as Silvia Delgado, El Chapo’s defense lawyer.
Despite these challenges, the elections represent a significant shift in Mexico’s approach to judicial appointments. Supporters argue that this move empowers citizens and increases accountability within the judiciary. The outcomes of these elections are expected to have profound implications for the rule of law and democratic governance in Mexico; whether those implications are positive or negative remains to be seen.
Final results are anticipated by June 15, 2025, with a second wave of judicial elections planned for 2027 to complete the overhaul of the judiciary, whatever that implies.
Surviving Mexico 
Putting their lives on the line. Suerte.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely.
LikeLike