U.S. Diplomat Warns of Risks in Mexico's Proposed Judicial Reforms

— Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) has responded sharply to U.S. criticisms regarding his proposed judicial overhaul, which has been labeled a potential threat to democracy in Mexico. U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar expressed concerns that the reforms could enable cartels to exploit inexperienced judges and create long-term political and economic instability. The proposed changes, which include electing judges rather than appointing them, have sparked significant backlash from various sectors, including financial institutions and legal professionals. The judicial reform, which is pending approval from the newly elected Congress, aims to allow judges to be elected for a one-year term. Critics argue that this could lead to a judiciary dominated by political interests, undermining checks and balances within the government. Salazar emphasized that the direct election of judges poses a risk to Mexico's democratic framework and could jeopardize the integration of the North American economies. The proposal has already led to widespread protests and strikes among judges and court employees, further exacerbating concerns about its implications. Despite the mounting criticism, Lopez Obrador has dismissed the U.S. concerns as interference in Mexico's domestic affairs. He plans to send a diplomatic note to the U.S. government, asserting that Salazar's comments were disrespectful. The president has also downplayed the economic impact of the proposed reforms, attributing the recent decline of the Mexican peso to broader global market trends rather than his judicial overhaul. As the situation unfolds, the potential for significant changes in Mexico's judicial system remains a contentious issue, with implications for both domestic governance and international relations.