A new constitutional amendment in Mexico paves the way for drug cartels to influence judicial elections, raising concerns over border security and judicial independence. Cartels can exploit the system given the power they already possess. Trump pledges to put an end to Mexico’s border issue.
Controversial Judicial Reforms
Mexico’s Senate has approved a controversial reform allowing judges to be elected by popular vote, causing an uproar among citizens and lawmakers. The reform is perceived to boost the ruling Morena party’s strength, particularly benefitting President López Obrador, who has clashed with the Supreme Court. Despite the prevailing opposition, the reform passed easily in the Chamber of Deputies, highlighting the Morena party’s influence over the legislative process.
This move has raised significant concerns about judicial independence, as critics argue that the reform consolidates power, eliminates meritocracy, and places undue influence in the hands of political entities. Critics worry that cartels could further exploit this electoral mechanism to infiltrate the judiciary, representing a severe threat to Mexico’s democratic integrity.
Mexican “cartels are making 32 MILLION dollars per week” just in the Eagle Pass area from human smuggling, according to Border Patrol. Also, first impeachment hearing for Mayorkas will take place next week. pic.twitter.com/6noLqktzUm
— Johnny Midnight ⚡️ (@its_The_Dr) November 11, 2024
Impact on Border Security
Mexican drug cartels have a notorious grip on both drug and human trafficking routes, posing critical challenges for U.S. border security. Rev. Heyman Vázquez emphasized this control, stating, “It’s them (the cartel) that says who passes and who doesn’t,” reflecting the cartels’ undeniable influence over migration.
Migrants traveling through cartel-dominated regions face numerous dangers, including extortion, kidnapping, and violence that hinder legally-sanctioned journeys to the U.S.
Justice is coming on January 20. Child traffickers will be held accountable. American Non Government Organizations actively conspired & coordinated illegal border crossings via cell phones & apps with Mexican cartels to exploit 350,000 children. pic.twitter.com/3JGsYBMETK
— Amy Reichert (@amyforsandiego) November 11, 2024
US Concerns
The U.S. views these developments with increasing concern since judicial vulnerability in Mexico could complicate bilateral efforts to combat drug trafficking. U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar has expressed apprehension over the potential threats these reforms pose to democratic principles, underscoring the need for collaborative strategies.
The presence of cartels has long been a concern for border security, with their involvement in violent crimes such as decapitations in Jalisco attributed to groups like the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. If allowed to influence the judiciary, drug cartels could further undermine Mexico’s justice system, making it less viable to tackle crime and illegal cross-border activities.
A Call for Reevaluation
The judicial reform’s potential to bolster cartel power invites close monitoring and raises powerful calls for a reevaluation of both judicial and security strategies. With the amendment allowing cartels to vote for judges, vigilance is critical to ensuring that true justice and democracy prevail in Mexico.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation is the first step toward safeguarding both nations’ interests. Strategies must be enhanced to challenge the influence of organized crime in elections and administrative functions to maintain security and judiciary integrity.