Introduction
In an unexpected turn of events, Mexico City’s mayor Claudia Sheinbaum has found an unlikely ally in former President Ernesto Zedillo Ponce de León. Despite some critics suggesting that Zedillo’s public endorsement might not be advantageous for Sheinbaum, this partnership is proving to be a strategic move.
Zedillo’s Critique and Sheinbaum’s Response
Zedillo, who served as Mexico’s president from 1994 to 2000, has publicly criticized the recent appointments to Mexico’s judicial system. He expressed concerns about the politicization of the judiciary, which could lead to biased and unjust rulings. Although some may question Zedillo’s moral standing to make such criticisms, his points hold merit.
Sheinbaum, on the other hand, has a powerful platform—an entire government, three political parties, and media attention centered on her responses. Unlike Zedillo, who lacks party or media support, Sheinbaum’s voice will prevail due to her alliances and the limited reach of Zedillo’s supporters.
Historical Context: The Thin Red Line
The phrase “thin red line” originates from the Crimean War (1853-1856), referring to the 93rd Highlanders’ defense against Russian cavalry in the Battle of Balaclava. This phrase has inspired literary works, including Alfred Tennyson’s poem “The Charge of the Light Brigade” and James Jones’ novel of the same name. In this political context, the “thin red line” represents a boundary that should not be crossed.
Both Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) and Claudia Sheinbaum have crossed this line by attacking the press, labeling it as a target of persecution. AMLO has gone so far as to use confidential information against journalists like Loret de Mola and Ciro Gómez Leyva, even accusing former President Felipe Calderón of being a personal enemy.
By crossing this thin red line, the risk of establishing an authoritarian government increases, undermining democratic principles.
Sheinbaum’s Strategic Use of Zedillo’s Support
Following Zedillo’s criticism of the judicial appointments, Sheinbaum responded during a morning press conference. She labeled Zedillo as a spokesperson for the PRI-PAN-PRD coalition (PRIAN) and mocked his alleged desire to position himself as a democratic champion. Sheinbaum’s comments were seasoned with familiar clichés, such as the Mexican populace being well-informed and attributing all shortcomings to the neoliberal era.
Zedillo’s critique of the upcoming June elections ignited Sheinbaum’s supporters, particularly those aligned with the 4T (Morena) movement. A representative from a pro-government publication accused Zedillo of having ties to a supposed Methamphetamine Cartel, referencing three alleged investigations during his presidency for suspected narco-related offenses.
Sheinbaum used this opportunity to orchestrate a smear campaign, citing FOBAPROA information in her morning press conferences, investigating the Acteal and Aguas Blancas massacres, and hinting at potential pension revocation in BANXICO. Pablo Gómez and the UIF have also participated in this campaign.
Zedillo’s support has enabled Sheinbaum to sidestep uncomfortable topics and unite her forces against a common adversary.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Claudia Sheinbaum? Claudia Sheinbaum is the current mayor of Mexico City, succeeding López Obrador’s former right-hand man, Marcelo Ebrard.
- Who is Ernesto Zedillo? Ernesto Zedillo Ponce de León served as Mexico’s president from 1994 to 2000, representing the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI).
- What is the significance of the “thin red line”? The “thin red line” is a metaphor for a crucial boundary that should not be crossed, representing democratic principles and just governance.
- Why is Zedillo’s support important for Sheinbaum? Zedillo’s criticism of the judicial appointments and subsequent backlash from Sheinbaum’s supporters have allowed her to deflect uncomfortable topics and unite her political forces.
