In a move reminiscent of her political mentor, incoming Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum displayed a series of surveys commissioned by her political party that indicate a wide majority approve of controversial judicial changes. Sheinbaum emphasized that the surveys were purely informational and not binding in any way.
The surveys, conducted over the weekend through face-to-face interviews with thousands of eligible voters across Mexico, are seen as a strategic move to gauge public opinion and build momentum for legislative changes. Critics have raised concerns about the surveys being used as a public relations tactic rather than a genuine reflection of public sentiment.
This approach mirrors that of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who utilized public surveys during his tenure to make key decisions, such as canceling the Mexico City airport project based on survey results. López Obrador's Morena party recently secured a two-thirds majority in Congress, paving the way for potential constitutional changes, including reforms to the judiciary.
Sheinbaum's surveys, conducted by private Mexican pollsters, focused on key questions related to proposed judicial changes and perceptions of corruption within the judicial system. The results reportedly show strong support for the establishment of an independent organization to investigate and hold judges accountable for corruption.
While the surveys indicate significant public backing for the proposed judicial changes, concerns have been raised both domestically and internationally. The U.S. has expressed interest in ensuring transparency in Mexico's judicial overhaul, particularly regarding its potential impact on American investors and companies.
As Mexico prepares for a new chapter under Sheinbaum's leadership, the debate over judicial reforms and the role of public opinion in shaping policy decisions continues to unfold.