Mexico's President Defends Judicial Reform Amid U.S. Criticism

Mexico's President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended his controversial judicial reform bill after U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar criticized it as a threat to democracy. Salazar's comments heightened tensions between the countries. Lopez Obrador remains committed to passing the reform, aiming to combat corruption within the judiciary.

Mexico's President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador sharply criticized U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar's remarks on his judicial reform bill, labeling them as disrespectful and interventionist. Lopez Obrador remains adamant about passing the reform, which aims to elect judges by popular vote, in a bid to combat corruption within the judiciary.

Salazar described the reform as a potential threat to democracy, suggesting it could make the judiciary susceptible to organized crime and jeopardize U.S.-Mexico trade relations. This marks the most significant escalation in tensions between the two nations over the proposed overhaul.

At a morning press conference, Lopez Obrador defended the reform slated for a congressional vote in September. He believes that the measure, backed by his Morena party's congressional majority, will help clean up corruption. Mexico's incoming Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard echoed Lopez Obrador's stance, insisting the reform would not harm trade ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)