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Challenges Facing Mexico's National Electoral Institute: A Conversation with President Councilor Lorenzo Córdova
Join us on January 24th at 11 am ET for a virtual discussion with Dr. Lorenzo Córdova Vianello (President Councilor of Mexico's National Electoral Institute, INE), Representative Alan Lowenthal of California's 47th District, Antonio Garrastazu (Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at the International Republican Institute), and Deborah Ullmer (Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at the National Democratic Institute).
Overview
Mexico's electoral body -- then named the Federal Electoral Institute (IFE) -- obtained full political autonomy in 1996, after a series of electoral reforms. Since then, the IFE, now INE, has organized Mexico's democratic processes. From supporting the country's transition to democracy in 2000 to carrying out its largest and most historic national election in 2021, the INE has remained one of the most-trusted institutions in Mexico. While the INE has significantly fortified and matured its institutional foundation over the past three decades, that trajectory has not been devoid of challenges. Most notably, the 2022 Federal Budget imposed a  budget cut on the INE, complicating its ability to fulfill President López Obrador's request to carry out a presidential mandate revocation referendum, which is estimated to cost about 3.8 billion pesos. In late December, the ruled that the INE must abide by the president’s mandate regardless of the budget. Still, the Court did not specify a timeframe for the referendum to take place, while López Obrador has implored the electoral body to conduct it on April 10th. These tandem challenges have created a tense political environment, complicating potential concessions.
Our discussion of these important issues will begin with a keynote presentation by Dr. Córdova, who will discuss INE’s feats and challenges, followed by comments by Congressman Lowenthal on the importance of democratic institutions and a panel discussion featuring commentary from Mr. Garrastazu and Ms. Ullmer. Following the formal presentations and discussion, audience members will have an opportunity to pose questions to our speakers and panelists.
Speakers
Lorenzo Córdova
Congressman Alan Lowenthal
Panelists
Antonio Garrastazu
Deborah Ullmer
Hosted By
Mexico Institute
The Mexico Institute seeks to improve understanding, communication, and cooperation between Mexico and the United States by promoting original research, encouraging public discussion, and proposing policy options for enhancing the bilateral relationship. A binational Advisory Board, chaired by Luis Téllez and Earl Anthony Wayne, oversees the work of the Mexico Institute. Read more
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