The Times They Are (Quite Possibly) A’ Changin’

On Sunday morning, June 1, the sun will rise over Mexico as it does each morning. People will do what it is they do on any given Sunday, whether that be head to church, go shopping, spend time with family and friends, or simply laze around on an official ‘Day of Rest’. But as the sun casts its warm glow, something different will feel palpable as the country stands on the brink of a monumental event.

On June 1, 2025, Mexico will embark on a historic journey, becoming the first nation in the world to allow its citizens to elect every judge. From local magistrates to Supreme Court justices, all will be selected through a popular vote. This unprecedented reform promises to reshape the landscape of Mexican democracy and governance.

What does this have to do with travel, you may be asking? Well, as with any major election in Mexico, there are temporary public policies in place to ensure a peaceful and responsible voting environment, and they may mean a thing or two in terms of your plans.

One key regulation is the “Ley Seca” (Dry Law). It’s a temporary restriction on alcohol sales. While restaurants and bars are still allowed to serve alcoholic beverages until 11 PM, retail alcohol sales at shops, supermarkets, and convenience stores are paused during the election period, usually starting the day before the vote. While not always in effect in each municipality (for example, this year Puerto Vallarta isn’t implementing it, but nearby Nayarit is), the measure is intended to reduce the risk of disturbances and encourage informed, sober participation at the polls. For locals and tourists alike, it’s a gentle reminder that this isn’t just a weekend to relax, it’s a time to engage with the future of the country.

For those of us residing in Mexico, particularly in vibrant locales like Puerto Vallarta, this election is more than just a political event; it’s a front-row seat to a transformative moment in the nation’s democratic evolution.

The air is thick with anticipation, as citizens prepare to cast their ballots not only for legislative representatives or executives but for the very individuals who will interpret and uphold the laws of the land.

The reform, which aims to address long-standing issues of corruption and inefficiency within the judiciary, has sparked nationwide debate.

Proponents argue that this move will enhance accountability and public trust in the legal system. However, critics express concerns about the potential erosion of judicial independence and the risks associated with politicizing the judiciary.

The magnitude of this electoral process is staggering. Over 7,000 candidates are vying for more than 2,600 judicial positions across the country.

Voters will be tasked with selecting judges at various levels, including federal district courts, circuit courts, and state and local tribunals. In some regions, voters may face as many as six separate ballots, each representing a different judicial tier.

This complexity underscores the importance of voter education and engagement. Mexican citizens find themselves in a unique position to influence the future of the nation’s legal framework. Actually, by being the first country to do this, they may very well influence global frameworks in the very near future.

The atmosphere here has felt electric, as though each voter knows how incredibly important their individual voices are on a collective scale. The spirit of democracy is palpable. From the bustling Malecón to the sandy beaches to the smaller cotos and barrios, conversations revolve around the upcoming elections.

For a city like Puerto Vallarta, known for its diverse population, this judicial election holds particular significance. The outcome won’t only affect the national legal landscape but also have direct implications for local governance and community relations.

As a coastal city that attracts both tourists and residents from around the world, Puerto Vallarta’s residents understand the importance of a fair and transparent judicial system. The decisions made in this election will influence how laws are applied and interpreted in our community, affecting everything from property rights to environmental regulations.

As the date approaches, the call to action among nationals is clear: participate because votes matter, as this is an opportunity to shape the future of Mexico’s judiciary and to stand witness to a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.

As Mexicans prepare to cast their ballots, it’s essential to reflect on the broader implications of this reform. The election of judges by popular vote is a bold step toward greater transparency and accountability. However, it also presents challenges that must be navigated carefully to preserve the integrity of the judiciary.

In the coming weeks and months, all eyes will be on Mexico. How this reform unfolds will set a precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues of judicial reform and democratic governance.

For those in Mexico, this is more than just an election; it’s a chance to be a part of history. As this amazing country stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, nationals are embracing this moment with the seriousness and enthusiasm it deserves. They are active participants in a democratic experiment. And it’s one the entire world should be watching.