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If we’re doomed, we’re doomed together

judicial reform advances, JuanGa barbie & Godínez slang

Author

Rocio Lucero
September 05, 2024

Feliz Jueves, amigos 🌻

Today, we're diving into Mexico’s divisive judicial reform bill, recently passed by Congress. The markets had an outsized emotional reaction to this news as the peso is currently trading at $20.04 to the dollar. Buckle up, because this reform could shake things up in more ways than one—economically, politically and even on the international stage!

If you're loving this newsletter and want to fuel more creative vibes, feel free to buy me a coffee 🥹

Let’s jump in.

TOP NEWS 

Morena politicians feeling Teresa smug atm

AMLO’s Controversial Judicial Reform Bill Passed by Congress

President AMLO is one step closer to manifesting his judicial reform vision before leaving office as Mexico’s lower house of Congress approved the bill yesterday, despite widespread protests. 

Tell me more.

Lawmakers gathered to vote at a sports center in Mexico City—an unusual venue, but necessary since thousands of judicial workers, including Supreme Court judges, have been striking and blocked the Congress building.

The controversy? The bill would allow federal justices to be elected by popular vote, a move critics say threatens judicial independence and does little to fix the real problems in the system.

With a 359-135 party-line vote, the bill now heads to the Senate, where it’s expected to pass. Since it involves constitutional changes, a supermajority is needed in both chambers, and Morena’s just one vote shy of that in the upper house.

AMLO insists it’s all about cleaning up corruption and giving the people more say in the judiciary. But legal experts are waving red flags, arguing the real culprits are police, prosecutors, and public ministries. The United States and Canada are concerned too—US Ambassador Ken Salazar warned the reforms could seriously hurt Mexico’s economy and its relationship with foreign investors.

What does this mean?

Under the proposed reforms, any lawyer with basic credentials could run for a federal judge position, and around 7,000 judges—including Supreme Court members—would be elected by the public. Their terms would also be shortened.

New “hooded judges” would handle organized crime cases, keeping their identities secret to avoid threats. Meanwhile, courts would lose much of their ability to block government projects or laws based on public appeals.

Incoming president Claudia Sheinbaum, AMLO’s ally, doubled down on support for the bill, saying it won’t harm trade or investment, but will actually improve the rule of law and increase democracy.

What a wild ride in Mexican politics!

🪅 El Zócalo is all dressed up for Independence Day festivities

👩🏽‍🍳 Roma’s best restaurants, according to CDMX Secreta 

🎀 Barbie celebrates Juan Gabriel with a special edition doll

📺 Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna, together forever

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CULTURE & HAPPENINGS
DID YOU KNOW?

That in Mexico, "Godínez" is playful slang used to describe office workers, typically those in 9-5 jobs, known for their routines, corporate lingo and usually bad bosses. It’s not clear where the term originated but it’s often used humorously to highlight the everyday life and quirks of office culture.

ROCIO RECOMMENDS

That you take a break from the Roma-Condesa bubble and head south to check out Parque Viveros in Coyoacán. This is a large, lush park known for its peaceful atmosphere, jogging trails, and tree nurseries. You’ll come across fitness enthusiasts, nature lovers and families picnicking.

VIRAL VAULT

Welcome to our reel-y awesome corner, where memes reign supreme and giggles are guaranteed. Send your fave my way!

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