Ron Johnson Sworn In as US Ambassador to Mexico

Ron Johnson was formally sworn in as the US Ambassador to Mexico during an official ceremony at the White House, presided over by Vice President J.D. Vance. The event was also attended by Esteban Moctezuma, Mexico’s Ambassador to the United States. Ambassador Johnson is expected to arrive in Mexico on May 15 to officially assume his duties.

“Welcome to Mexico, Ron Johnson! I was honored to attend the swearing-in of the newly appointed ambassador, who reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening our bilateral relationship. Congratulations!” said Moctezuma.

Toward the end of his predecessor Ken Salazar’s tenure, diplomatic access to Mexico’s National Palace became increasingly restricted and politically sensitive. Communications were channeled exclusively through Foreign Affairs Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente, following frictions over controversial US positions on Mexico’s energy and judicial reforms and opaque handling of joint security actions, such as the US capture of cartel leader Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada.

Claudia Sheinbaum has since institutionalized these controls: all diplomatic exchanges must now flow through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reducing the ambassador’s direct engagement with senior officials.

Johnson’s credentials point to a more assertive US diplomatic posture. A former military officer and CIA operative, he previously served as ambassador to El Salvador, where he cultivated a strong operational partnership with President Nayib Bukele. Known for his practical, results-driven style, Johnson is expected to prioritize concrete outcomes, especially in the fight against organized crime.

Backed by Trump’s agenda, Johnson reaffirmed his commitments during his confirmation hearings: dismantle drug cartels, limit the flow of illegal drugs, and address irregular migration. He vowed to work with Mexican authorities to strengthen cross-border security and ensure the safety of US citizens in the country.

Sheinbaum has expressed her readiness to work with Johnson but underscored that any collaboration must respect Mexico’s sovereignty and constitutional principles. She has firmly rejected any possibility of unilateral US intervention on Mexican soil.