President Claudia Sheinbaum’s May 19 mañanera covered the reception of new ambassadors, including Ronald Johnson, and the upcoming judicial elections on June 1. She emphasized collaborative relations with the U.S. and framed the elections as vital for judicial reform. Additionally, Sheinbaum expressed support for Baja California’s Governor Marina del Pilar amid visa revocation concerns.
In her Monday morning press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed various topics including the acceptance of letters of credence from new ambassadors to Mexico, as well as a countdown to the upcoming judicial elections on June 1. This reflection serves as a recap of her May 19 mañanera, highlighting significant updates regarding diplomatic relations and electoral processes.
Among the notable arrivals, Sheinbaum welcomed U.S. ambassador Ronald Johnson at the National Palace. Around 2:30 p.m., she shared a photo with Johnson, who presented a letter of credence from U.S. President Donald Trump. Alongside Johnson, the ambassadors from Algeria, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Slovakia also presented letters to Sheinbaum, showcasing Mexico’s commitment to international diplomacy.
During the press conference, a reporter mentioned that Johnson, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to El Salvador, has been actively engaged since his arrival. This included an eyebrow-raising dinner with Eduardo Verástegui, an ultra-right-winger known for his conservative political views. Notably, Mexico’s wealthiest individual, Carlos Slim, was reportedly present at this gathering. Verástegui previously attempted to run for the presidency in 2024 but was barred from the race for lacking the required signatures.
Sheinbaum did not comment directly on Johnson’s dinner with Verástegui, despite Johnson referring to Verástegui as his “brother.” Instead, the president emphasized her desire for a productive and respectful relationship with the U.S. government. She expressed a hope for “a lot of coordination and collaboration” moving forward.
As for the impending judicial elections, Sheinbaum expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming vote, marking a significant event in Mexico’s legal landscape. “We’re very happy, I’m very happy, because there will be broad and free participation,” she stated. She indicated that this is an unprecedented opportunity for citizens to elect members of the judicial branch, emphasizing unity between the government and the populace.
While she could not provide a precise turnout estimate, she mentioned that polls suggest that around half of respondents intend to vote. “It’s better that the people [elect judges] than just a few or the president,” Sheinbaum conveyed, underscoring the importance of citizen involvement.
Scheduled for Sunday, June 1, these judicial elections follow last year’s controversial reforms approved by Congress, allowing citizens to elect Supreme Court justices and other judges directly. Sheinbaum argued that this democratization of the judiciary is crucial for combating corruption and nepotism, asserting that such elections are key to economic and moral integrity within the system.
However, some experts have raised concerns about the potential for the ruling Morena party to influence the selection of judges to align with their agenda, as well as the risk of organized crime manipulating public opinion to install sympathetic candidates.
Furthermore, Sheinbaum reaffirmed her support for Baja California’s Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila, whose tourist visa—along with that of her husband—was rescinded earlier this month. “Our support for Marina del Pilar. She has done very good work,” Sheinbaum remarked, while addressing rumors about possible investigations linked to money laundering. Marrying support with accountability, she defended Ávila’s reputation, asserting that the governor enjoys strong public approval in Baja California—”I’ve seen it, I’ve noticed it while in Baja California,” Sheinbaum concluded, endorsing her leadership amid scrutiny.
This mañanera exhibited Sheinbaum’s focus on maintaining strong diplomatic ties while simultaneously advocating for civil engagement through electoral reform. The forthcoming judicial elections are set to redefine the landscape of Mexico’s judicial system, drawing both optimism and concern from various segments of society.
In summary, President Claudia Sheinbaum’s recent mañanera highlighted her welcoming of new ambassadors, including U.S. ambassador Ronald Johnson. She emphasized the importance of cooperation with the United States while underscoring the upcoming judicial elections as a historic opportunity for citizen engagement in the judiciary. Moreover, she defended her support for Baja California’s Governor Marina del Pilar amid allegations surrounding her visa issues. The discussions reflected a blend of diplomatic and electoral themes as Mexico prepares for transformative changes.
Original Source: mexiconewsdaily.com
