U.S. Envoy Warns Against Mexico's Judicial Reform, Citing Threat to Democracy and Trade

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, warns that proposed judicial reforms in Mexico could jeopardize the country's democracy and crucial trade relationship with the U.S. Salazar argues that electing judges by popular vote would risk influences from organized crime and diminish investor confidence in Mexico's legal framework.

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, issued a stark warning on Thursday regarding proposed reforms to Mexico's judiciary, which he says could jeopardize both the nation's democracy and its trade ties with the United States. The reforms, slated for a congressional vote in September, propose the election of judges, including Supreme Court justices, by popular vote.

Salazar expressed deep concerns over the reform's potential impact on Mexico's democratic functions and stability, citing a lifetime of experience in the rule of law. "Popular direct election of judges is a major risk to the functioning of Mexico's democracy," he stated. Incoming President Claudia Sheinbaum, who takes office in October, supports the proposal, aligning with outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

Tensions between the U.S. and Mexico are escalating, with Salazar emphasizing that such changes could undermine the U.S.-Mexico trade relationship, reliant on investor confidence in Mexico's legal framework. Salazar warned that direct elections might make it easier for organized crime to exploit politically inexperienced judges. Mexico's presidency and foreign ministry have not yet responded to these assertions.

(With inputs from agencies.)