Political theater has a new scene
The plenary session of the Chamber of Deputies approved the electoral reform known as Plan B. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s proposal passed with 37 votes in favor and 102 against. Morena, MC, PT and PVEM pushed the initiative while PAN and PRI closed ranks in opposition.
The crucial thing: it was approved without changes to what the Senate ordered. This means that the periods for consultations to revoke the mandate were not touched upon, something that the federal Executive had suggested modifying.
A debate full of accusations
Morenoist Víctor Hugo Lobo Román defended the project saying that it promotes austerity and advances political-electoral rights. But he couldn’t help a tone of frustration.
“We cannot fail to mention that we had the historic opportunity to achieve a great transformation… however, what was possible was hindered,” he accused.
On the other side, PAN member Laura Cristina Márquez gave an emotional speech that resonated in the room.
“Searching mothers have no consolation or justice, the sick have no care… Mexico is falling behind and they don’t want to see it,” he declared with a firm voice.
PRI member Abigail Arredondo Ramos was direct when describing the reform as “incongruent.” He dismantled the savings argument by pointing out emblematic works of the government.
“The supposed savings will be insignificant compared to the expense… the Mayan Train, the Interoceanic Train, Dos Bocas, the AIFA,” he listed. And he concluded: “It is a deceptive reform coming from those who sold the project to the President.”
Beyond the rhetorical theater, the concrete numbers: according to Arredondo, it would only affect 3% of the country’s municipalities. We are talking about 61 town councils with a maximum of 15 councillors.
Meanwhile, the Morenoist Jorge Luis Sánchez Reyes celebrated it as a triumph against neoliberal privileges.
“The Fourth Transformation is advancing in the reduction of privileges that those of the PAN built,” he stated.
The session had everything: rejected suspensive motions (presented by PAN and PRI), crossed accusations and that palpable tension when you know that every word is recorded for history. Now the debate continues in particular. The curtain has not completely fallen yet.
