The United States is investigating two Mexican governors over alleged ties to organized crime, creating tensions between the nations. U.S. authorities have turned their focus from drug cartel leaders to elected officials suspected of corruption. This shift aims to address the involvement of politicians and law enforcement in criminal activities, as many cartel figures have been neutralized.
Alfonso Durazo, governor of Sonora, and Américo Villarreal Anaya, governor of Tamaulipas, face scrutiny. Both have had their U.S. visas revoked amid these investigations. They belong to Mexico’s ruling Morena party, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, who criticized these probes as interference in Mexican affairs.
Alfonso Durazo, former security minister, denies wrongdoing and claims his visa is valid. He attributes the situation to a political effort against Morena.
Durazo’s case involves alleged connections to organized crime, with anonymous sources stating his visa was canceled last year. He frequently travels to the U.S. for medical treatment under a Significant Public Benefit parole program, aiding law enforcement efforts.
Villarreal’s investigation links to fuel smuggling, known in Mexico as huachicol. He has denied all allegations, emphasizing his transparency and adherence to the law.
The focus on corruption includes other significant figures. The U.S. indicted Governor Rubén Rocha Moya of Sinaloa and others for aiding drug cartels. Sheinbaum, López Obrador’s protege, promised to fight corruption despite political pressure. Sheinbaum opposed extradition requests from the U.S. and claimed these actions aim to smear her government.
Sheinbaum accused the U.S. of politicizing security issues. Ronald Johnson, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, emphasized unity in tackling cartel threats.
Amid these tensions, upcoming reviews of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement are set. Sheinbaum accused the U.S. of seeking to influence future Mexican elections through targeted investigations, asserting sovereignty over Mexican affairs.
The Barcelona U.S. has adopted visa revocation strategies against corrupt officials quietly. Some insiders express concern over its impact on investigations.
Sheinbaum faces challenges in upcoming elections, requiring careful candidate selections. The uncertainty around potential indictments could affect political stability and representation.
As Mexico’s sovereignty remains a key issue, political analysts view Sheinbaum’s stance as a balancing act between combating corruption and asserting national autonomy.