Mexico City, April 10 – The Mexico City Congress, in its capacity as a member of the Permanent Constituent, yesterday approved the Minute on the reform to the Federal Political Constitution, known as “Plan B” of the Electoral Reform. The reform received 49 votes in favor, 16 against, and zero abstentions. This legislative action aims to limit municipal councilors, adjust the budget of state congresses, and establish salary caps for electoral officials.
Details of the Approved Reform
The reform to the Magna Carta, sent by the Congress of the Union to local legislative powers, involved modifying articles 115, section I, first paragraph, and 116, section II, second paragraph, as well as adding a fourth paragraph to article 134, with subsequent paragraphs renumbered. This move is part of a broader effort to streamline electoral processes and reduce public spending in this area.
Legislators Debate the “Plan B”
Eighteen legislators from various political forces represented in the Mexico City Congress took to the podium to explain their votes. Six congressmen from MORENA spoke, as did six from the PAN. Single speakers represented the PVEM, PT, MC, PRI, and the parliamentary associations Progresista de la Transformación (APPT) and Mujeres por el Comercio Feminista e Incluyente (APMCFI). The PRD did not present a position.
Arguments in Favor: Austerity and Institutional Strengthening
Valentina Valia Batres Guadarrama, from MORENA, affirmed that this constitutional reform not only sets a limit on the budget of state legislatures but also curbs the remunerations and benefits of high-level bureaucracy. Her colleague, Yuriri Ayala Zúñiga, stated that “Plan B” contributes to the institutional strengthening and democratic life of Mexico.
Other MORENA members, including Valeria Cruz Flores, Pedro Haces Lago, Ángel Augusto Tamariz Sánchez, and Víctor Hugo Lobo Rodríguez, also expressed their support. They emphasized the need to consolidate democracy and the well-being of the population, as well as to respond to the trust placed in MORENA by the electorate.
Yolanda García Ortega of the PVEM argued that public funds should be used to address the demands of the people, not to build personal images or political interests, and that the minute reflects this principle. Ernesto Villarreal Cantú of the PT stated that this constitutional reform does not weaken democracy but dignifies it and aligns it with the current times in the country.
Alejandro Carbajal González of the APPT explained that the reform will help consolidate a fairer state and contribute to ending privileges under a regime based on republican austerity, honesty, and equity. Diana Sánchez Barrios of the APMCFI noted that the modification to the Federal Political Constitution has a legitimate objective: to eradicate privileges and put public resources at the service of those who need them most.
Arguments Against: Weakening Democracy and Lack of Control
Representing the PAN Parliamentary Group, deputies Ricardo Rubio Torres, Diego Orlando Garrido López, and Raúl de Jesús Torres Guerrero, along with congresswomen Laura Alejandra Álvarez Soto, América Alejandra Rangel Lorenzana, and Claudia Susana Pérez Romero, voiced their opposition.
Rubio Torres argued that this plan lacks control over organized crime’s interference in elections, as it cuts institutions without confronting this threat and does not strengthen democracy or ensure a level playing field for political forces. Garrido López believed that the modification to the Magna Carta seeks to weaken the electoral arbiter.
Other PAN congress members highlighted the need to strengthen citizen voting both domestically and abroad, as well as democracy, instead of questioning plurality, participation, and freedom of expression.
Patricia Urriza Arellano of the Movimiento Ciudadano Parliamentary Group considered “Plan B” to be merely a cosmetic administrative modification that does not fundamentally change the electoral system. Tania Nanette Larios Pérez, a PRI deputy, asserted that “Plan B” lacks credibility and moral authority and attempts to co-opt the last bastion of democracy in Mexico.
Next Steps and Implications
The approval of this Minute marks a significant step in the ongoing electoral reform process in Mexico. The changes are expected to have a notable impact on the structure and funding of electoral bodies and state legislatures. The implementation of these reforms will be closely watched, particularly regarding their effects on the upcoming electoral cycles and the overall democratic landscape of the country.
