Introduction
Following the validation of extraordinary elections to renew the Judicial Power, there is an undeniable loser: the election authorities. The Tribunal, more than the INE, will bear the historical responsibility of having ignored the accordion protest on June 1.
Internal Crises and Political Tensions
Both colegiate and autonomous bodies—by constitutional design—are experiencing internal crises stemming from power struggles among their members. The reaction of TEPJF president, Mónica Arali Soto, to a comment by magistrate Reyes Rodríguez Mondragón, who proposed the annulment, exemplified the quality of debate in the politico-electoral differences resolution forum.
The INE’s General Council also displayed a troubling lack of argumentative skill and palpable animosity. Consejera Dania Ravel publicly expressed concern over perceived offenses and omissions that usually go unnoticed in the democratic process’s horseshoe.
INE’s Reflection and Future Budget
As the renewal of the judicial power approaches, INE’s president, Guadalupe Taddei, has called for reflection on the autonomous organ’s role in the nation’s democratic life. Her urgency lies in the short-term definition of the 2025 expenditure budget, which includes 18.21 billion pesos for party financing, election organization, and democratic culture strengthening.
“We are prepared to continue fulfilling our responsibilities, ensuring reliable and transparent democratic processes,” Taddei offered.
The INE’s adaptability has been proven during austere times, but it may prove insufficient as the second level of the Fourth Transformation seeks to streamline the electoral system.
By 2027, more political parties with national (conditional) registration might emerge, but there could also be fewer magistrates in the TEPJF and consejeros in the INE.
For the final year of the potential INE future, council members have proposed an austere budget but haven’t curtailed their functions or powers. Party allowances barely exceed 3.1 billion pesos.
Secondary Effects
- Confirmation: After controversy over her supposed Iberian move, Beatriz Gutiérrez Müller and her son Jesús Ernesto have resumed normal activities. Her younger son, the ex-president of Mexico’s child, is about to begin his professional studies and has been admitted to a university in the San Fernando area, close to his residence.
- Cartel: U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ronald Johnson; Querétaro Governor, Mauricio Kuri; and businessman Guillermo Vogel (as U.S.-Mexico CEO Dialogue president) are expected to attend the fourth edition of the Binational Convention, convened by the Americas Society to gather decision-makers, diplomats, and business leaders aiming to build progress bridges between the nations.
