Background on Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and her Relevance
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo is the current Head of Government (equivalent to Mayor) of Mexico City, serving since 2018. Previously, she was the Secretary of Environment under President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s administration from 2017 to 2018. Sheinbaum Pardo is a prominent figure in Mexican politics, known for her work in environmental issues and social justice. As the Head of Government of Mexico City, she plays a crucial role in shaping policies for the capital city and influencing national discussions.
Reform Proposal and INE’s Autonomy
Sheinbaum Pardo clarifies reform intentions:
During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum Pardo emphasized that the proposed electoral reform does not aim to dissolve the Instituto Nacional Electoral (INE) or subordinate it to the Executive Power.
Maintaining INE’s autonomy:
“The INE retains its autonomy. The Electoral Register, the Lista Nominal, all remain with citizens because, in reality, they belong to citizens, but it is an attribute of the National Electoral Institute,” she stated.
Objective of the reform:
Sheinbaum Pardo highlighted that one of the main objectives of the reform is to reduce election and political party spending.
“It’s not necessary, to guarantee democracy, that so many resources be allocated,” she pointed out.
Proportional Representation and Plurinominal Diputies
Sheinbaum Pardo’s stance on proportional representation:
Regarding proportional representation, Sheinbaum Pardo expressed a negative view of the plurinominal diputies system.
Historical context of plurinominal diputies:
This system was initially designed to ensure minority representation, but over time, the number of plurinominal diputies has increased, benefiting all parties, including majorities.
“This does not mean the elimination of minority representation; far from it. However, it is necessary to review why so many diputies are needed and why some parties secure a single diputy position while gaining 17,” she argued.
Electronic Voting and Cost Reduction
Openness to electronic voting:
When specifically asked if she would support reducing the costs of federal elections in 2030 and implementing digital credencial electoral for electronic voting, Sheinbaum Pardo expressed openness to the idea.
“There are countries that have electronic voting, and at the same time, they provide a receipt confirming that you have voted. So why can’t we discuss this? Everything is open,” she explained.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the main goal of Sheinbaum Pardo’s proposed electoral reform?
A: The primary objective is to reduce election and political party spending. - Q: Will the proposed reform dissolve or subordinate the INE?
A: No, Sheinbaum Pardo clarified that the reform does not aim to dissolve or subordinate the INE. - Q: How does Sheinbaum Pardo view the plurinominal diputies system?
A: Sheinbaum Pardo considers the current plurinominal diputies system inefficient and seeks to review its necessity. - Q: Is Sheinbaum Pardo open to implementing electronic voting in Mexico?
A: Yes, she expressed openness to discussing and exploring the possibility of electronic voting in Mexico.