**Liz Mata Elected as PAN Leader in Baja California**
On Sunday, November 10, 2024, Lizbeth Mata Lozano, a former federal deputy, emerged victorious in the election for the leadership of the political party PAN in Baja California. Mata, who hails from Ensenada, secured 2,229 votes, defeating her sole challenger, former local legislator Amintha Briceño Cinco, who garnered 1,934 votes.
This election marked a significant milestone as it was exclusively contested by female candidates, following a directive from the PAN’s National Executive Committee. In key locations such as Ensenada, San Quintín, and Rosarito, Mata received a majority of the votes, leading with 207, 30, and 116 votes respectively, compared to Briceño’s 195, 5, and 78 votes in these areas. However, Briceño led in Tijuana with 855 votes to Mata’s 706.
Ultimately, a decisive count in Mexicali, where Mata received 1,011 votes against Briceño’s 728, secured Mata’s position as the new state leader of PAN. Christopher Domínguez Meraz, the Tijuana PAN leader, noted a voter turnout of approximately 45% across Baja California, highlighting the openness of PAN’s process compared to other political parties.
This election represents a historic moment for PAN as it steps into more inclusive political practices, giving women a prominent role in leadership within the party.
**More PAN and Political Updates in Mexico**
In related news, Jorge Romero has been elected in an internal PAN election with a sweeping 80% of the votes, though it was marked by 70% abstention. This result underscores significant engagement challenges within the party despite their democratic processes.
Additionally, political dynamics in Baja California remain complex as the political group closely aligned with Governor Marina del Pilar takes on leadership roles in the Morena party, highlighting shifting alliances and power plays in the region.
In response to these political movements, PAN leaders have been critical of Morena’s centralized decision-making, promoting PAN’s more democratic approaches. This highlights ongoing political tensions as parties vie for dominance in Mexico’s shifting political landscape.