The legislative “strong saucer” that no one wants to burn
In a twist that will surprise absolutely no one who has followed Mexican politics for more than five minutes, the president of the Senate, Laura Itzel Castillo, has announced that the electoral reform will be the “main course” of the next period. What a delight! Apparently, after serving several express dishes, Congress has decided that this stew needs slow cooking, at the level of judicial reform. Because, of course, when it comes to modifying the rules of the democratic game, it is best not to rush… unless it is something else, of course.
The senator from Morena came out against the criticism, denying with the vigor of someone defending a dessert that the legislature approves initiatives “on its knees.” According to his story, what we see are not sudden occurrences, but the ripe fruit of “years of political struggle and legislative reflection.” One can almost visualize legislators in deep meditation, perhaps in a cave, illuminated only by the light of constitutional wisdom. She was clear: there will be no fast track. This structural transformation of the system will require a broad and deep discussion. In other words, prepare for months of statements, appearances and an endless glossary of terms like “republican austerity” and “rules of political competition“.
Stew ingredients: less money, fewer legislators?
And, what does this succulent dish contain? Among the possible ingredients, there is speculation about the reduction of public financing to parties (an idea as popular as taking away sugar from a child) and the decrease in multi-member legislators. Castillo, in a fit of democratic arithmetic, clarified that any cuts would have to be “proportional.” Because, imagine the scandal if a party loses seats in a way that does not exactly match its vote percentage. Proportional representation is a “historic struggle,” he reminds us. Although one cannot help but wonder, rhetorically, if the historical struggle also included historical per diems and travel expenses.
At a moment in the function dedicated to transparency (new topic!), the senator recalled that the Senate is audited by the Superior Audit of the Federation. A consolation, without a doubt. However, with an honesty that is appreciated, he admitted that it can and must be improved, especially in the opaque Political Coordination Board (Jucopo). “It is important that these issues be taken into consideration,” he said. A revelation as shocking as discovering that water is wet.
When questioned about the case of the academic María Amparo Casar, Castillo ruled out political persecution. According to her, the issue is basically one of reputation and speaks of a “probable lack of ethics.” “We must all conduct ourselves in accordance with our principles,” he stated. A maxim that, applied rigorously, would leave the legislative chambers emptier than a rally on match day.
Finally, on the San Luis Potosí law to guarantee a female governor, the president of the Senate gave a master class in political balance: she celebrated female participation, but recalled that the candidates are decided by the parties. And by the way, he enlightened us with the information that the federal anti-nepotism reform will apply until 2030. So, be patient, dear citizens. Some changes take time, others require decades. The important thing is that the discussion about the powers of the states in electoral matters, facing 2027, is already in the oven. Over low heat, of course.
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