**Mario Osuna Jiménez to Step Down as State Leader of PAN in Baja California**
After three years as the head of the State Steering Committee of the National Action Party (PAN) in Baja California, Mario Osuna Jiménez has announced his decision to step down. He acknowledged the necessity for strategic changes to better engage with the local electorate. His tenure coincided with the June 2024 elections, where, for the fourth consecutive time, the party and its allies were unable to secure any electoral positions, in contrast to the sweeping victories of Morena and its coalition.
Osuna Jiménez emphasized the importance of introspection at both the national and state levels, urging the party to effectively communicate and champion pivotal causes. With Lizbeth Mata set to take over as the new president, Osuna expressed optimism about having a woman leading their efforts for the first time in history. He underscored the need for extraordinary efforts to persuade voters, especially highlighting the perceived impacts of Morena’s governance.
Although he will not be involved in future key decisions, Osuna intends to advocate for the dissolution of the alliance with the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), believing that PAN could achieve better results by running independently in upcoming elections. The change in leadership is expected to occur this week in Mexicali, although no specific date was provided.
**Secondary Article**
**Baja California’s 2025 Budget: Cuts in Security and Education**
As the new year’s budget is drafted, the PAN has raised concerns over planned reductions in funding for security and education in Baja California. Amidst ongoing discussions, these proposed cuts have sparked debate about the state’s priorities and the potential impact on key sectors.
In other local news, Amintha Briceño maintains a significant lead in the PAN BC race, while internationally, a PAN senator considers turning to international courts to challenge constitutional supremacy issues. Moreover, there are propositions to relocate the Tijuana-Tecate toll booth to alleviate traffic congestion, and a reported shortage of personnel at the Chaparral border crossing due to new X-ray equipment.
In response to the migration situation, there are calls for the reinstatement of the Migration Fund to support local shelters. Meanwhile, U.S. citizens are being cautioned about phone scams mimicking Customs and Border Protection.
Elsewhere in Tijuana, an office for the State Human Rights Commission will open in the eastern zone, and budget increases are anticipated to hire staff for the Indigenous Program. Residents should also prepare for Santa Ana winds and high swells, as well as frosty conditions in mountain areas. Finally, as sports-related violence continues, a man was killed during soccer games in La Presa.
With the festive season approaching, Christmas trees are now on sale in Tijuana, prices varying based on size and color. On a concerning note, employees at the East Zone Hospital are waiting for overdue payments, with half not having received salaries since starting in September.