Sheinbaum Welcomes New Ambassadors and Prepares for Judicial Elections

President Claudia Sheinbaum accepted letters from new ambassadors at her Monday mañanera, including U.S. ambassador Ronald Johnson. She discussed the upcoming judicial elections on June 1, emphasizing citizen participation and the need for reform. She also expressed support for Baja California’s Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila following visa revocation issues.

In the latest mañanera, President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the acceptance of letters of credence from new ambassadors, including the U.S. ambassador Ronald Johnson, and discussed the upcoming judicial elections. These events highlight significant diplomatic developments and the electoral landscape that Mexico faces in the near future.

Sheinbaum formally welcomed new ambassadors during an early afternoon ceremony at the National Palace. Johnson, who previously served as U.S. ambassador to El Salvador, has been described by reporters as “very active” since his arrival. Shortly before 2:30 p.m., the President shared a photo with Johnson, displaying his letter of credence from the President of the United States, Donald Trump. In addition to Johnson, Sheinbaum received letters from ambassadors representing Algeria, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Slovakia.

A notable mention during the conference was a dinner Johnson attended featuring Eduardo Verástegui, an ultra-right-wing figure and former actor. Also present was Carlos Slim, Mexico’s wealthiest individual. Verástegui previously attempted to run for the presidency in 2024 but faced exclusion from the ballot due to insufficient signature collection.

Although Sheinbaum refrained from commenting on the dinner, she emphasized her administration’s desire to maintain strong ties with the U.S. She expressed intentions for “a lot of coordination” and a respectful relationship between the two nations, which she believes is crucial for both.

As the date for Mexico’s first-ever judicial elections approaches, set for June 1, Sheinbaum expressed optimism about voter turnout. “We’re very happy, I’m very happy, because there will be broad and free participation,” she said, highlighting the importance of citizens having a say in judicial appointments.

Sheinbaum explained that citizens will elect Supreme Court justices and judges as part of a reform aimed at combating systemic issues within the judiciary, like corruption and nepotism. Despite not having a clear estimate on turnout, she mentioned that polls show half of the respondents plan to vote.

There are, however, concerns regarding the potential for manipulation in these judicial elections. Critics worry that organized crime could pressure citizens into voting for specific candidates, or that the ruling Morena party may seek to influence judicial appointments. Sheinbaum acknowledges these issues as part of the electoral discourse.

Furthermore, she reiterated her support for Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila, amidst reports of her and her husband having their U.S. tourist visas revoked. “Our support for Marina del Pilar. She has done very good work at the head of the Baja California government,” Sheinbaum remarked, dismissing any suggestions of an investigation against her.

Despite speculation over potential involvement in a money-laundering ring via her husband, Ávila maintains her innocence. Sheinbaum defended Ávila’s popularity, stating, “She does good work, the people like her a lot.”

This mañanera highlights critical diplomatic engagements and the democratic aspirations of Mexico as it moves toward historic judicial elections, coupled with ongoing support for key political figures.

In this latest mañanera, President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed significant diplomatic themes, such as the introduction of new ambassadors including Ronald Johnson, while also previewing the landmark judicial elections set for June 1. Her statements reflect optimism about civic engagement but also point to concerns regarding the influence of organized crime. Additionally, she reaffirmed her backing for Baja California’s Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila, amid troubling visa controversies.

Original Source: mexiconewsdaily.com