Senators to Challenge Narco-Linked Candidates for Federal Judge Positions Before TEPJF

Web Editor

April 23, 2025

Background on Key Figures and Relevance

Gerardo Fernández Noroña, the president of the Senate’s Directorate and Adán Augusto López Hernández, the president of the Junta de Coordinación Política (Jucopo), are key figures in this situation. Their roles as senators and political leaders make their actions significant, as they are set to present impugnations against approximately twenty candidates for federal judge positions linked to drug trafficking before the Tribunal Electoral del Poder Judicial Federal (TEPJF).

Senators’ Actions and Rationale

Fernández Noroña’s Stance:

Fernández Noroña clarified that they will challenge individuals deemed unfit for the positions based on their past actions. He emphasized that this is not a matter of personal preference or veto, but rather due to their associations with drug traffickers. He stated that while anyone has the right to defend clients, their suitability for such a crucial judicial role would be questioned if they have been known defenders of drug lords.

López Hernández’s Support:

Adán Augusto López Hernández, president of the Jucopo, expressed his support for Fernández Noroña’s initiative. He mentioned that the Chamber of Deputies will back any legal resources presented in this matter.

Support from the Chamber of Deputies

Sergio Gutiérrez Luna, president of the Chamber of Deputies, confirmed their backing for any legal actions taken against these candidates. He stated that they will accompany the process and ensure that all relevant evidence is presented before the TEPJF for evaluation.

Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s Statement

Earlier, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the head of the Mexico City government, mentioned that candidates with criminal links would be disqualified if there are proofs against them. She clarified that the decision ultimately lies with the Tribunal Electoral del Poder Judicial de la Federación (TEPJF).

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is presenting the challenges? Gerardo Fernández Noroña, president of the Senate’s Directorate, and Adán Augusto López Hernández, president of the Junta de Coordinación Política (Jucopo).
  • Against whom are the challenges being presented? Against approximately twenty candidates for federal judge positions linked to drug trafficking.
  • What is the basis for these challenges? The candidates are deemed unfit due to their past associations with drug traffickers.
  • Who else is supporting these challenges? The Chamber of Deputies, led by Sergio Gutiérrez Luna, is backing these legal actions.
  • What role does Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo play in this situation? As the head of the Mexico City government, she stated that candidates with criminal links would be disqualified if proofs are available, and the decision ultimately lies with the Tribunal Electoral del Poder Judicial de la Federación (TEPJF).