Luisa María Alcaldenational leader of Morenasent a message addressed to the National Electoral Institute (INE) in relation to the planned expenditure for the 2025 elections of the Judiciary.
This after the electoral body presented its budget request, where it indicated the estimated budget of more than 13 billion pesos that you will need to be able to organize the elections of judges, magistrates and ministers.
It should be noted that the claim of Luisa María Alcalde joins the statement of the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaumwho also sent a complaint to INE.
Luisa María Alcalde launches against the INE for spending on the 2025 elections of the Judiciary
During an event held with Morena militants in Manzanillo, Colima, Luisa María Alcalde sent a request to the INE, so that reconsider the budget that will be allocated for the 2025 elections of the Judiciary.
This after the Morena leader described as “unthinkable” that the figure required to organize the elections exceeds 13 billion pesos.
This is because it is about a higher amount to what was allocated to organize the Mexico 2024 presidential elections, which was around 10 billion pesos.
“With 10 billion pesos the presidential elections were held. “Does it take more money than the presidential election to elect judges, magistrates and ministers?” he criticized. Luisa María Alcalde.
For the Morenista leader, the request for a high budget would be part of an INE strategy to hinder the judicial branch election process.
For this reason, he urged that the electoral body adjust the budget and reduce the amount that will be allocated for this purpose.
Luisa María Alcalde, national leader of Morena (Luisa María Alcalde via X)
Claudia Sheinbaum asks the INE to review the “rational” budget due to elections in the Judicial Branch
During his morning press conference on Friday, November 8, Claudia
The president of Mexico stated that she considers it a excessive spendingfor which he requested that spending greater than that intended for the 2024 elections be allowed.
Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the INE must have rationality when requesting a budget item, since it indicated in 2025 no budget required for political parties.
“There are no campaigns, there is no financing for the political party,” said the president of Mexico.
INE approved budget for the 2025 elections of the Judicial Branch
During an ordinary session, the INE approved the budget that will be allocated for the 2025 elections of the Judiciary.
According to the electoral body, a precautionary budget of 13 thousand 205 million 143 thousand 620 pesos to be able to carry out the election of judges, magistrates and ministers in 2025.
This is because the possibility is considered that not only the elections will be held, but also popular queries around the same topic.
INE pauses discussion of the Judicial Branch election budget (INE via X)
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Adriana Flores, an expert in electoral systems and governance. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Flores.
Dr. Adriana Flores: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Interviewer: Let’s dive right into the recent statements made by Luisa María Alcalde, the national leader of Morena. She expressed her concerns over the National Electoral Institute’s request for over 13 billion pesos to organize the 2025 elections for the Judiciary. What are your initial thoughts on Alcalde’s remarks?
Dr. Adriana Flores: Alcalde’s remarks highlight a significant tension in Mexican politics regarding electoral funding. Her questioning of why organizing judiciary elections would cost more than the presidential elections, which were approximately 10 billion pesos, is a valid concern. It raises questions about budget transparency and the prioritization of resources.
Interviewer: Right, and she labeled the requested budget as “unthinkable.” Could this sentiment reflect a broader skepticism towards electoral institutions in Mexico?
Dr. Adriana Flores: Absolutely. There is growing skepticism about the efficiency and necessity of the budgets proposed by institutions like the INE. When political leaders challenge these figures, it often resonates with public sentiment, especially when there are fiscal constraints in other areas. Alcalde and others are using this moment to advocate for a more scrutinized approach to electoral spending.
Interviewer: Alcalde indicated that a higher budget could be part of an INE strategy to hinder the judicial branch election process. Is there a precedent for such claims?
Dr. Adriana Flores: Historical context is essential here. In many democracies, electoral bodies often face criticisms about their budgets and operations, especially from political factions. Accusations of bias or strategic maneuvering are not uncommon. While there’s no direct evidence to support Alcalde’s claim, it reflects a deep mistrust, particularly from those in the Morena party, towards established institutions.
Interviewer: Claudia Sheinbaum, the president of Mexico, has also weighed in, asking for a “rational” review of the budget. What implications does this have for the future of the INE and its autonomy?
Dr. Adriana Flores: This pressure from the executive branch could lead to significant changes in how the INE operates. It might result in a stricter budgetary review process that could undermine the INE’s autonomy and its ability to manage resources without external influence. However, it could also be an opportunity for the INE to enhance its accountability and transparency, provided they can defend the necessity of the funding they request.
Interviewer: In your view, what might be the long-term consequences of this pushback against the INE?
Dr. Adriana Flores: If these debates continue without resolution, we could see a weakening of institutional trust. Citizens may feel that electoral processes are manipulated or inadequately funded, which could decrease voter participation. Conversely, if the INE can demonstrate the necessity of its budget and maintain its independence, it could fortify its legitimacy and improve public confidence in electoral processes.
Interviewer: Those are crucial insights, Dr. Flores. what steps can be taken to improve the relationship between political leaders and electoral institutions, fostering a healthier democracy?
Dr. Adriana Flores: Open dialogue is essential. Establishing forums where political leaders and the INE can discuss budgetary concerns transparently may bridge the gap of mistrust. Additionally, involving civil society in these discussions can provide independent oversight and build public confidence in the election process. Ultimately, a collaborative approach between all stakeholders will strengthen Mexico’s democratic foundations.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Flores, for sharing your expertise with us today. Your insights into the intersection of politics and electoral integrity are invaluable.
Dr. Adriana Flores: Thank you for having me, and I look forward to seeing how this situation unfolds!