The report discusses the political landscape in Mexico, particularly focusing on the upcoming elections and their implications, especially in relation to the United States. The historical quote "Poor Mexico. So far from God, so close to the United States" is referenced, highlighting the significant influence of US policies on Mexican politics.
The report notes that the current president, Enrique Peña Nieto, had a controversial approach towards the US under the presidency of Donald Trump, which included supporting Trump's candidacy and inviting him to Mexico. However, this strategy did not yield significant results, as Trump did not soften his stance on issues such as the border wall and trade agreements during his presidency.
The report further highlights the upcoming elections, which are the largest in Mexican history due to their comprehensive nature, including presidential, congressional, and state-level elections. The three leading candidates are Ricardo Anaya, representing the coalition Por México al Frente; Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), representing Juntos Haremos Historia; and José Antonio Meade, representing Todos por México.
The report observes that these candidates come from a mix of political ideologies, with AMLO taking a more radical stance against Trump's policies and potentially advocating for political and anti-corruption reforms. Ricardo Anaya is seen as the least controversial candidate, while José Antonio Meade faces challenges due to corruption allegations within his party.
The report suggests that while the pre-campaign may not necessarily determine the election outcome, the ongoing trade war initiated by President Trump could have a significant impact on Mexican politics. This includes the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and potential economic repercussions, which could also translate into political costs for Mexico, especially if the populist trend gains traction in Mexican politics.
In conclusion, the report emphasizes the complex interplay between domestic Mexican politics and external factors, particularly those emanating from the United States, and how they might shape the upcoming elections in Mexico.
