Fact Check: "Only 13% of eligible voters participated in Mexico's recent judicial election."
What We Know
In the recent judicial elections held in Mexico on June 1, 2025, voter turnout was alarmingly low, with estimates indicating that only 12.6% to 13.3% of eligible voters cast their ballots. This level of participation marks one of the lowest turnouts in any federal election in Mexico since the early 2000s, when the country transitioned to a democratic system (New York Times). The national electoral authority, known as INE, confirmed these figures, which have raised significant concerns regarding the legitimacy of the election process (Reuters).
The elections were notable as they represented a shift from an appointment-based system to one where judges are elected by popular vote. This change was part of a broader judicial reform proposed by the governing leftist party, Morena, aimed at combating corruption within the judiciary (New York Times). However, the complexity of the election process, which involved nearly 2,700 judgeships, left many voters confused and uncertain about their choices (New York Times).
Analysis
The claim that only 13% of eligible voters participated in Mexico's recent judicial election is substantiated by multiple reliable sources. The New York Times and Reuters both reported similar turnout figures, highlighting the significant abstention rate of nearly 90% of eligible voters (New York Times, Reuters). The low turnout has been attributed to various factors, including confusion over the number of candidates and allegations of electoral manipulation by the ruling party, which may have further discouraged voter participation (New York Times).
The credibility of these sources is strong; both are well-established news organizations with a history of accurate reporting. The New York Times has a dedicated section for international news, including coverage of Latin America, while Reuters is known for its factual reporting and global reach. The information provided by these outlets is corroborated by the official statements from Mexico's electoral authority, which lends additional weight to the claim.
Moreover, the context surrounding the elections—such as the controversial nature of the judicial reforms and the political climate in Mexico—adds layers to the understanding of why voter turnout was so low. Critics have described the election as a "power grab" by the Morena party, which may have contributed to voter apathy and skepticism towards the electoral process (New York Times).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that only 13% of eligible voters participated in Mexico's recent judicial election is accurate, as confirmed by multiple reliable sources. The reported turnout figures reflect a significant level of voter abstention, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral process and the broader implications for democracy in Mexico.
