The Chamber of Deputies of Mexico approved the so-called 'Plan B' electoral reform, promoted by President Claudia Sheinbaum. The reform received the support of a qualified majority with 377 votes in favor, 102 against, and no abstentions. The particular sections were ratified around 2:30 AM with 343 votes in favor, 124 against, and one abstention. The Morena deputy, Leonel Godoy, stated: 'What we are voting for today is a no to privileges, to the onerous expenses of local congresses, cabildos, and municipal councils.' He asserted that 'we are legislating for the people, against prerogatives, so that there is transparency.' He sent a message to the opposition: 'No plan will be to your liking.' In contrast, the opposition criticized the reform, questioning that it does not address underlying problems and warning of risks to the democratic system. The PAN deputy, Laura Cristina Márquez, pointed out that 'it does not arise from dialogue, consensus, or a pluralistic need,' and criticized that 'it does not touch the underlying problems.' The PRI deputy, Abigail Arredondo, described the project as 'an attempt to distract attention from the country's serious problems' and warned it could imply 'a control model that centralizes decisions.' The reform amends articles 115, 116, and 134 of the Constitution, proposing changes to the composition and functioning of local municipalities and congresses, as well as establishing limits on the remunerations of electoral officials. According to the ruling, each municipality will be governed by a council consisting of a municipal presidency, a syndicate, and up to 15 regencies, based on principles of gender parity, substantive equality, and a gender perspective. At least 17 local congresses must approve the reform for it to be declared constitutional. The project also includes a transitional regime that provides for the progressive implementation of the changes, legislative harmonization by May 30, 2026, and the reallocation of budgetary savings to infrastructure works and social programs.
