Reports from Mexican legal bodies or major news outlets

Mexico Becomes First Country to Elect Judges by Popular Vote After Final Senate Approval

Sep 11, 2024, 10:10 AM

Mexico’s Senate has given final approval to a sweeping judicial reform that will overhaul the country's judiciary by electing judges by popular vote. This profound transformation, pushed by outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, marks a significant shift in the judicial system, which critics fear could threaten the rule of law and damage the economy. The reform, which was approved with 86 votes in favor and 41 against, has drawn strong criticism from U.S. officials and investors, who warn it could pose a major risk to Mexico’s democracy. Mexico becomes the first country to allow voters to elect judges at all levels, including Supreme Court judges, with elections to be held next year. Despite fierce protests and heated debates, the reform has cleared the last major obstacle in the legislative process.