**Magistrate Candidates Can Spend Over a Million During Campaign in Baja California**
On March 30, 2025, the Electoral Institute of Baja California approved the campaign spending limits for the state’s Judicial Power elections, set to coincide with federal elections on June 1. During its 18th extraordinary session, the General Council, presided over by Luis Alberto Hernández Morales, discussed the allowances stipulated by the Political Parties and Financing Commission. The Commission’s President, Jorge Alberto Aranda Miranda, emphasized that the financial thresholds ensure candidates can effectively campaign and build their presence before the first Sunday in June elections.
The Extraordinary Electoral Process Calendar 2025 outlines that campaigns for the position of magistrates and judges will run from April 29 to May 28. The cap for the Superior Court of Justice and Judicial Discipline tribunal candidates is set at 1,414,736.11 pesos. Meanwhile, judges running in Mexicali can spend up to 320,323.74 pesos, those in Tijuana 525,576.96 pesos, Ensenada candidates 148,373.84 pesos, and hopefuls in Tecate, Rosarito, San Felipe, and San Quintín are capped at 105,115.39 pesos.
On March 26, at a commission session, Aranda Miranda stated that the General Law of Electoral Institutes and Procedures permits candidates to allocate funds for “personal expenses, per diem, and travel” within their campaign territory. Additionally, the state’s legislative body had a deadline of March 7 to submit the list of candidates for the 2025 Elections to the Institute. Following this, the Institute will cross-check lists from the three branches of the state government. Candidate information will be available in the public “Conóceles” system starting April 1.
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**Secondary Article: Challenges and Developments Ahead of the 2025 Elections in Baja California**
The upcoming 2025 electoral process in Baja California brings both opportunities and challenges. According to recent analyses, low budget allocations could potentially influence voter mobilization efforts. The 2024-2025 period forecasts difficulties in connecting with the electorate, highlighting the importance of strategic campaign management and resource allocation. Moreover, influential voices, including the Catholic Church, have underscored the significance of these elections, reminding voters of the crucial role judges play in upholding justice and the potential repercussions of poor judicial appointments.
Across the state, security concerns persist with reports of crime impacting election-related activities. Instances such as the shooting in Mexicali on March 30, 2025, continue to underscore the need for protective measures for candidates and voters alike. As campaign season officially kicks off, there is heightened scrutiny on candidate safety, transparency, and adherence to established financial guidelines, marking this election as pivotal for the future judicial landscape of Baja California.