Mexico's Historic Judicial Election: Smooth Process, but Low Turnout and Protests

Mexico's First Popular Vote for Judges: A Smooth Process Amidst Criticism and Low Turnout Mexico made history on June 2nd, 2025, by holding its first-ever popular vote for judicial positions. The election saw citizens voting for judges, Supreme Court ministers, and magistrates across the country. The National Electoral Institute (INE) reported that the voting process "developed normally in all polling stations." However, the event was not without controversy. Many critics pointed to low voter turnout and confusion surrounding the process. President Claudia Sheinbaum and former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador both cast their ballots, highlighting the significance of the event. The INE's live broadcast of the vote count marked a commitment to transparency, but the low turnout raises concerns about public engagement with the judicial system. "I came with much rejection of this reform," stated Valentina Benítez, a voter interviewed in the video. "But with the knowledge that it is the only thing that can be done." This sentiment reflects the mixed feelings surrounding the election. Protests also occurred, with funeral wreaths left at the Supreme Court of Justice, indicating strong opposition from some sectors of the population. Despite these challenges, the event represents a significant step towards greater transparency and citizen participation in the Mexican judicial system.