### Sheinbaum Responds to US Ambassador’s Warning on Judicial Reform
*By Carlos Álvarez Acevedo | August 22, 2024*
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the President-elect of Mexico, indirectly addressed Kenneth Salazar, the US Ambassador to Mexico, in response to his warning about a recent judicial reform. This reform, proposed on February 5, 2024, by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, includes the direct election of judges and has been described by Salazar as a potential threat to democracy and economic integration.
Sheinbaum highlighted, via her account on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), that in 43 out of the 50 US states, judges are elected by popular vote. While she did not explicitly mention Salazar, her statement comes as a direct counter to his concerns.
In a detailed communication, Ambassador Salazar recounted his extensive legal background in various high courts, including the US Supreme Court, and expressed his deep respect for the rule of law. He emphasized the potential risks the judicial reform could pose to Mexican democracy and economic stability. Salazar also noted that direct elections might make it easier for criminal entities to influence inexperienced judges.
Salazar further praised the historical collaboration between the US and Mexico, accented by advances in economic integration through the USMCA (T-MEC) and joint efforts in security and anti-corruption measures. However, he warned that the current reform proposal could undermine these achievements.
### Additional News on the Topic
#### Canadian Ambassador Voices Investor Concerns Over Mexican Judicial Reform
*August 22, 2024*
In related news, the Canadian Ambassador to Mexico has publicly shared that Canadian investors are increasingly apprehensive about the proposed judicial reforms in Mexico. These concerns echo similar sentiments expressed by Kenneth Salazar and highlight the broader international trepidation surrounding the potential impacts on the investment climate and economic stability in Mexico.
Investors fear that the direct election of judges could introduce volatility and undermine the independence of the judiciary, thereby affecting confidence in legal and economic frameworks crucial for business operations. The Canadian government stressed the importance of a stable and transparent judicial system to maintain positive economic relations and support mutual growth.
#### Transition Between AMLO and Sheinbaum Underway Without State Funds
*August 22, 2024*
In another development, a transition team has been established to facilitate a smooth handover of power from President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum. Interestingly, López Obrador has decided not to allocate state funds for this transition. This decision highlights the ongoing fiscal conservatism of the outgoing administration while raising questions about the resource allocation for such a critical process.
### Conclusion
The dialogue surrounding Mexico’s judicial reforms continues to attract significant attention, both domestically and internationally. The concerns raised by ambassadors from the US and Canada reflect deeper issues regarding judicial independence and economic stability. As Mexico navigates these reforms, the international community remains watchful of their potential implications.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for further updates on this evolving story.