AMLO's Final State of the Union Address / Judicial Reform

IMSS-Bienestar Report. The IMSS-Bienestar program has hired 26,272 medical specialists, focusing on addressing gaps in medical care across 23 states and over 600 hospitals. Anesthesiology, previously one of the most underserved specialties, has seen significant attention, reported IMSS-Bienestar Director, Zoé Robledo. 

Additionally, 11,774 Banco de Bienestar cards have been distributed through the La Clínica es Nuestra (The Clinic is Ours) program, allowing healthcare workers to decide on budget allocations. So far, MX$6.3 billion (US$320.1 million) has been invested in this initiative, marking an unprecedented and efficient investment in the healthcare system, Robledo noted.

Rating Agencies Lower Mexico's Rating. President López Obrador responded to concerns that credit rating agencies might lower Mexico's credit ratings if the Judicial Reform is approved. He criticized these international agencies, stating that they have historically threatened countries because they used to dictate economic agendas, aligning with neoliberal policies. He accused them of fostering corruption and being complicit in the country's exploitation.

López Obrador downplayed the seriousness of these concerns, asserting that Mexico's economy is strong enough to withstand any negative campaigns. He highlighted the country's record reserves of US$312 billion signal economic strength. He acknowledged that agencies like Moody's and Fitch Ratings might be displeased with his government's policies over the past six years. Still, he emphasized that these policies have been effective, asking rhetorically which country has achieved better economic results in recent years.

Reform of the Judicial Power. López Obrador announced a pause in his relationship with the US Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, and the Canadian embassy following their opposition to the judicial reform. He also criticized the involvement of the Organization of American States (OAS) in supporting a request by 1,000 Mexican judges to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) to block the reform, which they see as a "technical coup."

Despite ongoing protests, legal challenges, and a strike within the Judiciary, López Obrador dismissed concerns that the reform would cause issues for Claudia Sheinbaum's upcoming administration, insisting that the majority of the population supports the changes. He also expressed hope that the US and Canadian governments would reconsider their positions on the matter, though diplomatic relations with both countries remain intact.

AMLO’s Last State of the Union Address. López Obrador announced that on Sunday, September 1, at 10:00 a.m., he will deliver his final government report. In this address, he will provide an update on the state of the nation and offer a message marking the end of his administration. He emphasized that the economy is strong and solid, positioning Mexico as one of the most attractive countries for foreign investment.