Mexico's First Judicial Elections: Low Turnout and Disorganization Cast a Shadow

Mexico's Historic Judicial Elections Marked by Low Turnout and Confusion Mexico held its first-ever election for judges, magistrates, and ministers on June 1, 2025, but the event was marred by widespread reports of low voter turnout and organizational issues. Videos and reports from across the country show numerous polling stations with few or no voters. In Mexico City's Miguel Hidalgo borough, one video shows nearly empty polling stations. "Casillas casi vacías y mucha confusión," the video's caption reads, translating to "Almost empty polling stations and a lot of confusion." Similar scenes were reported in Álvaro Obregón, CDMX, Zapopan, Jalisco, and Cuernavaca, Morelos. In Naucalpan, Estado de México, images show a nearly deserted polling place. The low turnout reflects a broader concern about citizen engagement in the judicial process. One citizen interviewed stated, "It's concerning that so few people are participating in such an important election." The lack of sufficient poll workers in some areas further hampered the process. Despite these challenges, the election proceeded, marking a significant step in Mexico's judicial reform efforts. The low turnout, however, raises questions about public awareness and engagement with the judicial system. Further analysis is needed to fully understand the factors that contributed to the low participation and to ensure higher turnout in future judicial elections.