Arms Trafficking / Judicial Power Reform

Arms Trafficking. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador highlighted that 70% of the weapons seized in Mexico come from the United States.

On Aug. 4, 2022, the Mexican government announced it was suing six US manufacturers: Smith & Wesson, Barrett Firearms, Colt’s Manufacturing Company, Glock, Century International Arms, and Ruger, for promoting access to high-powered weapons without strict regulations. According to the lawsuit, over 500,000 firearms cross illegally from the United States to Mexico every year and more than 68% come from these companies. The government argues that the lack of regulation contributes to the illegal trafficking of arms to Mexico. In 2019, weapons trafficked into Mexico were responsible for 17,000 murders, say authorities. Furthermore, the estimated damage to the economy caused by violence is around 1.7% of Mexico’s GDP.

Judicial Power Reform. López Obrador stated that the reform of the judiciary, which aims to have ministers, magistrates, and judges elected by popular vote, will be implemented during the next administration.  

The reform is part of the new reform package proposed by the president on Feb. 5. López Obrador highlights that due to time limitations in the Legislative Branch, he will not be able to see his initiative materialize during his administration. Therefore, he says he is relying on his so-called "Plan C," which consists of waiting for the next president to continue promoting the reform.

Polls Name López Obrador Second-Best President. López Obrador stated that he remains the president with the second best approval rating, which hovers between 60% and 70%. 

According to the Morning Consult 2023 survey, Lopez Obrador has a 66% approval rating, which places him behind India's Naredra Modi, who has a 77% approval rating.