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Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

In his last days in office, Mexico's president has picked a fight that is roiling his nation

Los Angeles Times
Summary
Nutrition label

77% Informative

Andrés Manuel López Obrador is pushing a constitutional change that would make every judge in Mexico 's justice system stand for election.

The leftist leader has slashed poverty and tripled the minimum wage.

He boasts an approval rating of 73% — practically unheard of for an outgoing president.

But instead of basking in his successes, he has picked a fight.

Critics say the plan would turn judges from impartial interpreters of the law into political actors.

López Obrador frames the proposal as part of his bigger quest to make Mexico more equal.

The number of judges serving on the Supreme Court would shrink from 11 to nine , and their term would be shortened to 12 years .