Introduction
Laura Itzel Castillo Juárez, daughter of the esteemed Mexican politician Heberto Castillo Martínez (1928-1997), assumes the presidency of the Senate with a dual responsibility: to honor her family name and uphold order and tolerance within the democratic framework, while staying true to her leftist ideals.
Challenging Times and Opportunities
Some may consider the timing of Laura Itzel’s presidency as challenging, given recent events in the political arena. However, I believe it presents a favorable opportunity for a woman to step in and assertively maintain control over the contentious senators. We are, after all, living in “a time for women.”
A Proven Track Record
Laura Itzel has navigated the murky waters of Mexican politics without tarnishing her reputation. Her experience includes serving as a representative in the Assembly of the Federal District (1991-94), delegate in Coyoacán (1999-2000), Secretary of Urban Development and Housing in the Federal District (2000-2006), federal deputy (1997-99 and 2009-2012), and Director of the Passenger Transport Network in Mexico City during Miguel Ángel Mancera’s tenure. Currently, she is a senator, having taken office on September 1, 2024. Clearly, she is no political novice.
Comparing Political Trajectories
I am eager to observe the dynamics between Laura Itzel and Senator María Lilly del Carmen Téllez García, a prianista-trumpist from Sonora. Will Lilly resort to pet names or label Itzel as “narcosenadora”? Will she follow protocol when admonishing her, or will she disregard it as she has in the past?
Both senators, of similar age, have distinct political and academic backgrounds. Lilly reportedly pursued a bachelor’s degree in communications without completing it, while Itzel holds an architecture degree from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). She has contributed to significant projects, such as the Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI and serving as Subdirector of the Investigations Institute in Engineering and Architecture A.C.
Reactions from Colleagues
I am also intrigued by the reactions of other colleagues, such as Alejandro Moreno “Alito,” a world champion boxer from Campeche, who may need to temper his aggressive behavior to adhere to proper decorum. Additionally, I am interested in how Itzel responds to accusations against her morenist counterparts, like Adán Augusto Hernández and Gerardo Fernández Noroña.
Inspired by Her Father’s Legacy
Above all, I have faith that Laura Itzel will remain loyal to her family’s legacy of dignity and, like her father, skillfully bridge gaps between various groups. As described by Enrique Krauze in the prologue of “Si te agarran te van a matar,” Heberto Castillo was an independent, creative entrepreneur and unwavering socialist who built connections between technical expertise, society, government, and opposition.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Laura Itzel Castillo Juárez? Daughter of the respected Mexican politician Heberto Castillo Martínez, with a strong background in public service and architecture.
- What is her role as Senate president? To maintain order, uphold democratic values, and represent her leftist ideals.
- How does her background compare to other senators? Laura Itzel has a more extensive and diverse political and academic background compared to some of her colleagues.
- What challenges does she face? Navigating tensions between senators and staying true to her principles.
- What inspires her? The legacy of her father, Heberto Castillo Martínez, known for his socialist ideals and ability to build connections across various groups.
