ANTONIO HOLGUIN ACOSTA VICE PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS
FRANCO
CARREÑO OSORIO GENERAL DIRECTOR
ALFREDO GONZÁLEZ CASTRO EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
ALEJANDRA ICELA MARTÍNEZ RODRÍGUEZ COORDINATOR, HERALDO USA alejandra.martinezr @elheraldodemexico.com
ADRIÁN PALMA ARVIZU CREATIVE DIRECTOR adrian@elheraldodemexico.com
DANIEL ERNESTO BENET SÁNCHEZ NORIEGA EDITOR, HERALDO USA daniel.benet@elheraldodemexico.com
ANGÉLICA SIMÓN UGALDE EDITOR, HERALDO USA angelica.simon@elheraldodemexico.com
PATRICIA TEPOZTECO ROMERO EDITOR, HERALDO USA patriciatepozteco @elheraldodemexico.com
ISMAEL
ESPINOZA SUÁREZ, OMAR MÁRQUEZ GRAJALES DESIGN
ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES INFOGRAPHICS
Periódico El Heraldo de México. Editor Responsable: Alfredo González Castro, Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional del Derecho de Autor: 04-2009-060419022100-101. Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título y Contenido: 16921. Domicilio de la Publicación: Av. Insurgentes Sur, No. 1271, piso 2, oficina 202, Extremadura Insurgentes, Benito Juárez, C.P. 03740. Impreso en LA CRÓNICA DIARIA, SA DE CV, Avenida Azcapotzalco La Villa 160, Colonia San Marcos, Alcaldía Azcapotzalco, Ciudad de México, CP 02020. Distribuidores: ARREDONDO E HIJOS DISTRIBUIDORA, SA de CV, Iturbide 18 local D, Colonia Centro de la Ciudad de México Área 4, Alcaldía Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, CP 06040. ELIZABETH IVONNE GUTIÉRREZ ORTIZ, Callejón 2o de la Luz 52, Departamento 4, Interior 1, Colonia Anáhuac II Sección, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, Ciudad de México, CP 11320. AEROVÍAS EMPRESA DE CARGO, SA de CV, Paseo de la Reforma 445, Piso 9, Colonia Cuauhtémoc, alcaldía Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, CP 06000 Publicación Diaria No. ____, día xx de mes de 2024.
BY ENRIQUE CAMACHO BELTRÁN
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
It is not often that we can see the political cycles of the US and Mexican presidential elections almost synchronize (it happens only every twelve years as the presidential term of office is four years in the US and six years in Mexico), but when we do, I believe this offers a sketch map of how the US and Mexico share the same ghastly traits of an underdeveloped public political culture; dominated by disinformation, manipulation and identity politics over communication, informed deliberation and accountability.
The one trait that worries me the most is certain form of smug discourse of expertise at odds with some kind of popular-discourse wisdom. In the US democrats reproach Trump voters for their bigotry as Trump voters blame privileged democrats for abusing the benefits of social cooperation without any concern for the less advantaged. In the same vein in Mexico educated middle and upper classes blame Morena voters for their lack of understanding about how a leftist party should govern, while Morena voters in turn, reproach educated classes for their lack of care and respect for their needs and hopes. Both sides in the two countries think they have a special insight regarding politics, and both sides believe that the other is vastly misled. In truth, however, the pious elites are not as clever and illuminated as they think they are, and the insulted groups are not as knowledgeable as they expect about the context of the problems, they face every day. For me, this kind of infertility of public discourse begins and is systematically sustained by a misconception about the nature of the kind of knowledge required to reform political life.
In order to see this, forget for a minute what you think you know about Trump, Harris or Sheinbaum and her opposition and concentrate not in the content but only in the form of discourse. Imagine an educated attorney rebuking a random individual’s defence of Trump: “if you knew how politics work you could understand that check and balances are necessary for protecting the rights of minorities”, or a plane pilot rejecting the argument of a steward defending Morena’s reforms “you don’t understand the history of fascism, otherwise you would see that democracy is much more than majority rule.” On the other side imagine the answer either from the dependant or the steward more or less in the following terms “if academia and experts were much more connected with reality, they would see how Trump/Morena is defending the interests of the less advantaged”. These forms of conversation assume that someone has a position of knowledge superior to that of others: “If you saw what I see, if you studied what I have studied, if you understood what I understand,
In underdeveloped public political cultures disinformation, manipulation, and identity politics often prevail over communication, information, and accountability
Enrique Camacho Beltrán Researcher at the Northwestern Research and Teaching Station of the Legal Research Institute-UNAM
During and after the US election, it seems that the self-righteous have decided to pontificate the truth about politics to the offended mistrusting masses
RECONCILIATION
you would agree with me, but you do not see, hear or understand what I do, so you do not agree with me, therefore you are plain wrong.”
This form of disagreement may be correct for some discussions about facts, such as whether there is a solution to a trinomial equation, but it seems simply offensive in matters of politics. If you know arithmetic, you will eventually both agree, if you both follow the same procedure, provided there is nothing wrong with your disposition and understanding. But politics is not like that. In politics two people may conclude quite different things from the same true information, because they may be interpreting the facts in different ways and sometimes, we cannot single out which interpretation is right or wrong.
This does not mean that everything in politics is relative. Quite the opposite, it means that certain kind of knowledge, to be objective, needs to be constructed between many individuals differently situated within the same circumstance or problem. Most of the time many interpretations hold some truth, and we need to go through them, compare them, discuss them and see the world through them to arrive to a common interpretation. We may start by noting that many times some people disagree with us not because of faulty judgment or defective information, but as a result of abuse and trauma. Recently Melanie Brown, former member of the British group “Spice Girls” published a book describing the slippery slope of abuse by one’s partner. Crucially, she explains how, no matter how much theoretical and practical knowledge we possess, objectively we are all equally vulnerable to abuse and deception; and that we will find equally hard to find our way out of it. Similarly, almost all recent governments in the US and Mexico have abused and deceived many of us in some way. The magnitude and harmfulness of the abuse increases as the vulnerability of social groups increases. In this context, it is deeply inappropriate and even re-victimizing to approach someone who has been abused and deceived by putting yourself in a position of superiority and saying “if you weren’t so stupid, your partner wouldn’t hit you,” “if you didn’t go out at night, you wouldn’t have been robbed,” “if you understood political science, you wouldn’t vote for this party.” What would make public conversation more authentic and less alienating would be empathy and respectful exchange: if I understand the grievances that determine other people’s interpretation of the world and they understand the grievances that determine mine, then in many cases we will see that, when discussing politics, even if we disagree, we are on the same side. That is a good start for any political conversation, but above all it is necessary for all of us to reconcile ourselves after these elections both sides of the border.
Real Progress or Empty Words? An Analysis of Environmental Conventions Worldwide and in Mexico
2024 MARKS A SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN MEXICO. WITH THE LEADERSHIP TRANSITION TO THE NEW GOVERNMENT UNDER CLAUDIA SHEINBAUM, WHO HAS APPOINTED ALICIA BÁRCENA AS SECRETARY OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES (SEMARNAT), MEXICO PROMISES A RENEWED FOCUS ON ENERGY TRANSITION AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION. THIS CONTEXT RAISES EXPECTATIONS ABOUT WHETHER MEXICO WILL NOT ONLY MEET BUT ALSO LEAD IN ACHIEVING THE INTERNATIONAL CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY GOALS ESTABLISHED IN THE CONVENTIONS ON BIODIVERSITY, CLIMATE CHANGE, AND DESERTIFICATION—COMMITMENTS THAT HAVE FACED CONTRADICTIONS AND SHORTFALLS SO FAR.
International Goals: Limited Achievements, Weak Commitments
Globally, the three conventions on biodiversity, climate change, and desertification that emerged from the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro have accumulated commitments and promises. Yet, their accomplishments fall far short of what is needed. Global climate action has not met its targets, and despite progress in some areas, the data overwhelmingly indicate that the crisis continues to worsen.
Biological Diversity: The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) aimed to halt biodiversity loss, protect 17% of land areas and 10% of marine regions, and prevent species extinction. By 2020, the goal for protected terrestrial areas was nearly achieved globally, but the protection of marine regions remained at 7.74%, far from the target. Moreover, biodiversity loss remains unchecked: one million species are at risk of extinction, and wildlife populations have declined by 68% since 1970.
Climate Change: Despite the Kyoto and Paris agreements, global greenhouse gas emissions reached a record high of 36.8 gigatons of CO₂ in 2022. The Paris Agreement sets a 1.5°C limit on global temperature rise. Still, with current policies, the world is on track for an increase of 2.4°C to 2.6°C, which would lead to devastating impacts for many vulnerable regions.
Desertification: The Convention to Combat Desertification aims to achieve land degradation neutrality by 2030. Yet, 12 million hectares of productive land are lost yearly, and 3.2 billion people are affected by desertification and drought. These figures highlight the urgent need to go beyond rhetoric and achieve accurate and equitable implementation.
Mexico: The New Environmental Vision
Mexico has been one of the countries most impacted by the climate and environmental crisis, facing droughts, devastating hurricanes, and an alarming loss of biodiversity. The 2024 government transition, with Claudia Sheinbaum and Alicia
Bárcena at SEMARNAT, signals strengthened policies regarding these issues. Both leaders have shown a firm commitment to energy transition and biodiversity policies that, if realized, could align Mexico with the goals of international conventions. Below are critical areas for analysis under this new administration:
Energy Transition:
Towards a Less Fossil-Fuel-Dependent, More Solar-Powered Mexico
Sheinbaum has expressed her intent to accelerate the shift to clean energy, focusing on solar and wind power—sectors where Mexico has significant but underutilized potential. Her administration has set ambitious targets for 2030, aiming for renewable energy to constitute over 50% of the national energy mix, surpassing the previous 35% target. Alicia Bárcena, with her experience in international organizations and a focus on sustainability, has been instrumental in proposing policies that prioritize renewable energy, decentralize energy gene-
ration, and reduce fossil fuel consumption.
The new government is also expected to review the subsidies and investments in hydrocarbons that characterized the previous administration. This would mean redirecting resources toward clean energy projects and increasing local communities’ support for adopting renewable energy systems. The challenge will be to combine these efforts with economic development while facing pressure from business groups and traditional energy sectors.
Mexico's new leadership prioritizes energy transition and biodiversity, aiming for 50% renewables and expanded protected areas.
Biodiversity: Conservation and Environmental Justice
In the field of biodiversity, Alicia Bárcena has proposed an approach that combines the protection of natural areas with a model of environmental justice, placing indigenous and rural communities at the center of conservation efforts. Under this vision, Mexico is expected to strengthen both the quantity and quality of its protected areas.
MONDAY / 11 / 18 / 2024
Currently, the country has about 13% of its land area and 22% of its marine waters under protection, but many of these areas face challenges related to funding, infrastructure, and management.
The new government has stated that, in addition to increasing the protection of natural areas and in line with the agreements reached at the COP in Cali on this matter, it will work on sustainable ocean management and combat illegal fishing. Local communities are encouraged to participate and take leadership in implementing practices that preserve marine life, contributing to ecosystem health and the resilience of coastal communities, particularly in biodiversity-rich areas such as the Mexican Caribbean and the Gulf of California.
Mexico’s commitment at the recent Biodiversity COP in Colombia includes the protection of 30% of marine and terrestrial areas, along with new conservation strategies led by Indigenous, Afro-Mexican, and local communities. This represents a 50% increase in Mexico’s protected natural areas within just six years.
Bárcena has announced and initiated the review of tourism and mining developments in environmentally sensitive areas, such as the Sea of Cortez, the Lacandon Jungle, and the Riviera Maya, severely impacting extractive activities and real estate developments. The new government proposes a conservation policy that considers community welfare and ensures natural protection against activities that degrade the environment and the quality of life of its inhabitants.
Climate Adaptation and Community Resilience
Mexico has suffered from extreme climate events, such as the recent hurricanes Otis and John in Guerrero. These hurricanes revealed the vulnerability of many regions, particularly in the mountains of Guerrero, and the lack of preparedness for these recurring events. The Sheinbaum and Bárcena administrations aim to promote a national climate adaptation program, focusing on hurricane-resistant infrastructure, water management policies in the northern part of the country, and strengthening disaster response capacities.
on urban adaptation projects, such as green infrastructure in cities to mitigate flooding and improve air quality.
Real
Change or Cosmetic Adjustments?
While the progressive left-wing orientation, known as ‘Mexican humanism,’ with Sheinbaum and Bárcena, raises positive expectations, the success of these initiatives will depend on real implementation and the political will and capacity to confront corporate interests and internal resistance. The structural transformation that Mexico needs requires going beyond policy and budget adjustments; it implies rethinking the development model so that sustainability and social well-being are its main pillars.
Mexico must confront the root causes of the environmental crisis more decisively and radically, such as inequality in resource access and the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. Additionally, it is realistic to expect that Mexico could become a benchmark for climate justice in Latin America, demonstrating that a functional economy oriented toward equity and conservation is possible.
COP and Conventions: A New Opportunity for Mexico?
Mexico’s participation in the COPs and conventions on biodiversity, climate change, and desertification has often been symbolic. However, Mexico now has the opportunity to become a key player in advancing environmental justice issues. With a government aligned with sustainability objectives and committed to communities, Mexico is demonstrating in international forums that a different development model is possible if environmental policies are also considered social welfare policies.
Sheinbaum and Bárcena push for resilient policies: sustainable oceans, community-led conservation, and agroecology reforms.
As programs and public policies are enshrined in the Constitution, sustainable and resilient agroecology and agroforestry initiatives, such as Sembrando Vida, will be strengthened. The new government has also established measures to focus
The arrival of Claudia Sheinbaum and Alicia Bárcena at the helm of Mexico’s environmental and energy policies represents an opportunity to position the country as a leader in global conservation and climate justice goals. However, a fundamental transformation will require a firm commitment to implementing these policies coherently and addressing the structural challenges imposed by the neoliberal model. Mexico stands at a crossroads: it can become a leader in climate justice in the region and the world, or if the promises remain mere words, it will continue dragging the same environmental problems that have marked its history over the past decades.
WHILE IT MAY SURPRISE SOME, OTHERS SAW IT COMING. IT WAS CLEAR THAT THIS RACE WOULD BE TIGHT. THE DEMOCRATS GAINED AN ADVANTAGE WITH THE TRANSITION FROM BIDEN TO HARRIS. YET, FORMER PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP HAD A STRONG CHANCE OF WINNING.
HARRIS
PRESIDENCY:
KAMALA HARRIS:
ELECTORAL COLLEGE VOTES,
VOTES,
A CLOSER LOOK AT SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC DATA PROVIDES INSIGHT INTO VOTING TRENDS BY GENDER, AGE, ETHNICITY, AND MORE. ACCORDING TO EXIT POLLS FROM CBS NEWS AND AP VOTECAST, THE RESULTS ARE BROKEN DOWN AS FOLLOWS:
BY: ALEJANDRA ICELA MARTÍNEZ RODRÍGUEZ
DEMOGRAPHIC BREAKDOWN
Latino voters, especially men, primarily supported Trump; many had voted for Joe Biden in 2020.
BY: DANIEL E. BENET
TTrump focused his campaign on the issues most relevant to his potential voters. Among those who cast their vote, the priority was the state of the country’s economy, followed by the state of democracy. Positions on abortion and migration followed in importance in deciding the vote. He gained ground in practically all demographic sectors that had favored the Democrats, this turn to the right occurred in groups previously consolidated in the vote for the Democratic Party. Rural communities have a long history of voting for the Republican Party, however, in these elections, urban communities that tend to vote Democrat also shifted their vote to Trump. These cities and towns are not empty. The proportion of votes for him increased in counties with majority African American, Native American and Hispanic populations. With control of the Senate settled and the House of Representatives secure, the materialization of his campaign proposals will face few challenges in government.
It is well worth taking the next president of the United States at his word and not hoping that he was only giving tough campaign speeches. What can be expected in the world with his return to the White House?
INTERNATIONAL WAR ISRAEL-PALESTINE AND IRAN
Israel has long been a strategic ally of the United States, not only in this geographic region, but through Jewish communities around the world. Trump has declared that he sees the two-state solution, one of the proposals with the most international consensus for the in-depth and long-term resolution of this conflict, as increasingly complicated. The president-elect will continue to unconditionally support Israel; it is worth remembering that in 2019, he recognized Golan Heights, a territory long disputed with Syria, as part of Israel, making the United States the first and only member of the international community to do so.
In addition, Israel and the US share a similar assessment of Iran’s threat to the interests of both countries. In 2018, Trump unilaterally withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, which had been agreed with China, France, the United Kingdom, Russia and Germany in 2015 with the aim of limiting Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for a reduction in international sanctions imposed on that country. Donald Trump was also the commander-in-chief of the US armed forces who ordered, without the approval of US Congress, the killing of Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in 2020. He is expected to redouble his efforts to end Iran’s nuclear program and apply severe economic sanctions to that country. Just a few days after winning the election, the US Department of Justice charged three people with being involved in an Iranian plot to assassinate the Republican.
RUSSIA-UKRAINE
In his first term as president, Donald Trump was highly critical of NATO spending, accusing US allies of relying excessively on its contributions. He also had public clashes with European heads of state such as Angela Merkel and Emmanuel Macron. Trump has been critical of Presi-
Control of the White House
ELECTORAL COLLEGE VOTES
DONALD TRUMP: 312
KAMALA HARRIS: 226 POPULAR VOTE
DONALD TRUMP: ~77 MILLION
KAMALA HARRIS: ~74 MILLION
WHAT’S IN THE WORLD
dent Biden’s policies of giving large sums of money in support of Ukraine. During his campaign, he promised to end the war between Russia and Ukraine during his first days in office, which was interpreted by analysts and President Zelensky as a move that could be advantageous for Putin. In the president-elect’s close circles, there were statements about forcing a ceasefire considering the current border lines on the battlefield. J.D. Vance, Trump’s running mate and future vice president of the United States, went so far as to declare that Ukraine needs more soldiers than it can get and more material than the US can provide. This suggests that the situation could become complicated for Ukraine.
TRADE CONFLICTS
CHINA
The rival for American leadership on the world stage. Although Trump has expressed his admiration for its leader’s authoritarian style, he has also made clear his willingness to engage in a trade war. This is not new; during his presidency
TO THE DISMAY OF A GOOD NUMBER ACCORDING TO THE RESULTS, MANY WAS DECIDED THAT SAME TUESDAY, NOVEMBER ELECTORAL COLLEGE VOTES, THE POPULAR DISCUSSED SWING STATES. GEORGIA, MICHIGAN, WHICH IN 2020 HAD VOTED BLUE, TURNED PART OF THE “BLUE WALL”, WHERE IN DOWN THE WALL. ALTHOUGH THERE MIGHT IS NO DOUBT ABOUT
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Sheinbaum
WHAT’S NEXT WORLD
its most elections?
NUMBER OF PEOPLE AND THE DELIGHT OF, MORE, THE US ELECTORAL CONTEST NOVEMBER 5. DONALD TRUMP WON THE POPULAR VOTE, AND EACH OF THE WIDELY MICHIGAN, WISCONSIN AND PENNSYLVANIA, TURNED RED. THE LAST THREE WERE EVEN AN IRONY THE REPUBLICAN KNOCKED MIGHT BE QUESTIONS ABOUT WHY, THERE ABOUT WHAT IS COMING.
he imposed tariffs on steel, aluminum, washing machines, solar panels and other Chinese goods that affected around 380 billion dollars of trade and raised taxes by around 80 billion dollars. Now the Republican has threatened to impose tariffs ranging from 60% to 100% on all Chinese imports to the United States. The scenario, however, is not the same as four years ago. Although the Chinese economy now depends more on its exports and the imposition of tariffs would have a greater impact on it, the country is less dependent on the American market, since it has shifted its exports to Southeast Asia and Latin America. The US trade balance with China has seen a deficit reduction from around $347 billion in 2016 to around $280 billion in 2023.
In the Far East, there are also tensions in the South China Sea. Overlapping areas in the region are claimed by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan and of course China. Important reserves of resources such as oil, natural gas, and fisheries combine with the strategic loca-
/ 11 / 18 / 2024
Control of Congress
SENATE GOP: 53 SEATS
DEMOCRATIC PARTY: 47 SEATS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES GOP: 218 SEATS
DEMOCRATIC PARTY: 212 SEATS 5
UNDECIDED (PROBABLY 3 GOP 2 DEM)
tion for commercial navigation and military positions of this region. It is expected that the United States will strengthen its military ties with Japan, the Philippines and South Korea. Regarding Taiwan, outside the strong commercial relationship it maintains with the country, the United States is expected to continue with its “one China” foreign policy, which allows it to maintain diplomatic and commercial relations with the People’s Republic of China.
EUROPE
Although it is not part of the dominant public political discourse on that continent, among other things because of the Republican’s lack of respect for European heads of state during his first term, a possible unification is expected in Europe as a response to a new Trump term, which could be veiledly welcomed by some member countries. This supposed optimism derives from the possibility that the next tenant of the White House will exert pressure on his allies that will allow them to advance on issues where the European Union has been divided, such as defense spending and the harmonization of its financial sectors. In contrast, with Trump there is the risk of trade conflicts such as those that occurred with steel and aluminum during his first term. It is also feared that the next US president could put the European Union between a rock and a hard place in terms of its trade relations with China, thwarting commercial associations between the old continent and the Asian giant, which is already indispensable for European economies.
ENVIRONMENT
Specialists fear that the Republican candidate’s second stint will be catastrophic for international environmental commitments. This is not only because the country is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases, but it is also one of the largest sources of funding for the implementation of strategies to combat climate change. Trump has repeatedly spoken out about the threat that an international climate agenda poses to his country’s economic interests; a significant part of the Republican’s political base has branded global warming a hoax.
INFORMATION AND MEDIA
Attention should be paid to Donald Trump’s belligerent attitude towards the media and his promises of revenge against those who have portrayed him in a negative light. Disinformation was identified as an important part of his campaign to shore up popular issues among his supporters (remember the case of migrants who, according to him, were eating the dogs and eating the cats). It is also important to be vigilant of the effect of business interests on the functioning of the fourth power and accountability during his presidency. It is worth mentioning the decisions by two newspapers: the L.A. Times and the Washington Post to withdraw the endorsement they had planned for Kamala Harris during the campaign. These decisions were made by the magnates who own these newspapers, Patrick Soon-Shiong and Jeff Bezos respectively. This led to the resignation of the editorials editor, Mariel Garza, in the first and the cancellation of around 250 thousand subscriptions for the second. The international community had plenty of time to prepare for this political scenario, we will have to see who did it and who benefits from this in the future.
CLAUDIA SHEINBAUM: MAKING HER MARK ON THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE
WITH A WALL TO OVERCOME IN NORTH AMERICA
The Second Floor of Foreign Policy on the Second Floor of the Fourth Transformation of ‘Make America Great Again’
ANABEL ORTEGA POLITICAL SCIENTIST AND INTERNATIONALIST
President Sheinbaum understands the importance of México as a global player and trader.
BY ANABEL ORTEGA
On October 1, 2024, history was made in Mexico when Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum
Pardo was sworn in as the first female president of the United Mexican States, marking a decisive victory and establishing her legitimacy. Under the banner of the “Fourth Transformation,” which promises a change in Mexico’s regime and public life, is foreign policy set to be one of the most relevant points of her six-year program?
More recently, they have focused on helping small local businesses establish and grow, while also providing training for various jobs, such as marketing, graphic design, or developing skills for starting their own businesses.
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Anabel Ortega M. Political Scientist and Internationalist
To the surprise of many and the gratitude of outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, President Sheinbaum started strong and firm. She did not invite King Felipe VI of Spain to her inauguration, even though he is the head of state of Spain, because he had not responded to the letter sent by AMLO requesting an apology for the atrocities committed during the conquest against Indigenous peoples. The letter had been ignored and was used to ridicule the Mexican president at the time. The newly elected president chose to invite a relevant international actor, albeit one who would not significantly impact the country’s commercial relations, given that Spain is Mexico’s second-largest trading partner. She chose to start strong with 105 diplomatic representatives as special guests at the Congress of the Union.
Dr. Sheinbaum understands the importance
of Mexico in global politics; we play a crucial role due to our diplomatic relations, our geographic position, and, from a commercial standpoint, through the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This role is also vulnerable because of issues such as migration, drug trafficking, and the new geoeconomic configuration that President Donald Trump aims to impose in the United States with his “Make America Great Again” slogan, which includes building a wall that affects bilateral relations.
The problem is that the agendas of both nations do not align on issues such as migration, human rights, and gender issues. This additional challenge raises expectations, as today the U.S. leader will deal with a woman whom he believes should be “protected” because, in his view, she does not make good decisions. Could this be another wall in bilateral relations? The truth
is that there is at least one area where they do align, at least at the rhetorical level: both believe that the sovereignty of the nation should be protected. For the United States, this means capturing jobs and relocating industries, such as the automotive sector, back to the country, while for Mexico, it means protecting energy sovereignty.
The foreign policy of the second floor of the Fourth Transformation finds itself in a complex and challenging context. The new administration inherits a diplomatic legacy marked by tensions and contradictions, alongside an ideological and pragmatic approach with a low international presence that characterized the government of its predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador. This legacy will be accompanied by President Trump for the next four years, more than half of Sheinbaum’s term, during which the revision of the NAFTA treaty will be negotiated in 2026. This negotiation will involve Trump’s hard negotiating style, as he has already begun making threats of 25% tariffs on Mexican exports if the flow of migrants is not stopped and other issues from the first day of his mandate, shaping his “second floor” of “Make America Great Again.”
In this context in North America, what is President Sheinbaum’s role in multilateral affairs, armed conflicts, the Ukraine-Russia conflict, the Middle East, or regarding the Pact for the Future proposed by the most recent United Nations General Assembly?
We know that President Sheinbaum will attend the G20 Summit in Brazil in November. There, she will greet the heads of state from twenty nations, representatives from the European Union and the African Union, and the Spanish government. Will this forum be the perfect moment to define the first steps of Mexico’s foreign policy under the new president?
In the words of Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente, this administration seeks to achieve “a strong foreign policy that shines, one that reflects the great first government of Mexico’s first female president.” In the morning press conference on November 8, he mentioned that Sheinbaum’s visit has generated “great expectations,” and many meeting requests have been received, with pending agenda coordination for meetings with France, China, Canada, South Korea, Japan, and the United Kingdom, all of which have requested an audience. However, “it will not be possible to meet with everyone,” as the President will return to Mexico for the celebrations of Revolution Day.
The G20 could be an opportunity for President Sheinbaum to establish a diversified, concrete, precise, and active foreign policy, with a unique and urgent focus on increasing Mexico’s participation in international forums and strengthening the country’s presence in multilateral organizations.
The problem is that both agendas México and the USA do not align
G20 on November 18th could be an opportunity to establish a concrete and diversified foreign police
The second term of Donald Trump’s presidency entails actions against Mexico that he promised during his campaign, which will likely be implemented from day one, given the composition of the U.S. Congress, where he secured majorities in both chambers to make decisions. However, the United States also has a pragmatic vision for reconfiguring geopolitical and geoeconomic blocs. Mexico is part of its regional security and its main commercial ally. For Americans, “it’s the economy… first,” even with the wall and the drug trafficking issues.
If Sheinbaum’s goals are clear and consistent, she can step forward and strengthen Mexico’s role in the world, enabling her to fulfill her slogan: “Mexico deserves respect!”
Her success will depend not only on her ability to implement practical actions and changes but also on her skill in navigating the complexities of contemporary international relations, with a wall to break down in North America. The international community will be watching closely to see how these critical issues develop during her term; indeed, so will Donald Trump.
Trump’s trade war with China has been a central strategy, and his administration is expected to continue policies aimed at redefining global trade. In this context, Mexico, as a critical part of North America’s supply chain, can establish itself as an essential partner for the U.S. economy.Texas has been a crucial player in this relationship. Under Governor Greg Abbott’s leadership, the state has fostered a business-friendly environment that has attracted influential figures like Elon Musk. Based in Austin, Musk has driven pro-business policies and was recently appointed by Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency. In this role, Musk will advocate for reducing bureaucracy, which, combined with his influence in Texas and his investments in Mexico, can streamline trade and production connections between the two countries.
Beyond Musk, other Texas leaders, such as prominent lawyer John B. Scott, play essential roles. Scott, with a strong background in state politics, has close ties to Governor Abbott and the Trump administration. His experience as Texas Secretary of State and his previous role representing Trump in legal matters following the 2020 election position him as a crucial link between Texas interests and Trump’s federal policies. Scott’s influence supports strategic alignment between Texas leadership and Trump’s initiatives, particularly on legal and commercial issues directly affecting U.S.-Mexico relations. These figures enhance Texas’s business environment and foster a synergy that benefits both countries under the USMCA.
Tesla’s expansion in Nuevo Leon strengthens the production corridor between Texas and Mexico, with the plant expected to supply the U.S. market and contribute to electric mobility projects, particularly Texas’s plans to expand its network of electric vehicle charging stations. Supported by the Texas Department of Transportation, this plant’s proximity and collaboration with Mexican border states enable Tesla to establish an efficient production and supply chain that quickly responds to electric vehicle demand. This development positions Mexico as a
A New Opportunity Tx-Mexico Relationship TRUMP´SVICTORY:
Donald Trump’s recent victory signals a new phase of strategic opportunities that Mexico should proactively embrace. This outcome reflects the American electorate’s desire for a stable economy and a business-friendly environment. This economic boost benefits the United States and opens doors for Mexico, especially within the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) framework.
critical partner in Texas’s electric mobility strategy, facilitating a cross-border logistics network that benefits both countries.
The energy sector represents a vital area of collaboration between Mexico and the U.S. Projects like the Midland-to-Mexico gas pipeline, which involves companies such as Woodside, Sempra Infrastructure, TC Energy, and Mexico Pacific Limited, highlight the significance of shared energy infrastructure. Mexico Pacific, under Sarah Bairstow’s leadership, is also constructing a gas liquefaction plant in Sonora, bolstering Mexico’s natural gas export capabilities and establishing it as a key player in the global energy market. Bairstow’s recent attendance at a business summit held at the National Palace with President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized the Mexican government’s dedication to promoting foreign direct investment.
Public-private partnerships between the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and Texas energy companies are a cornerstone of energy collaboration between Mexico and the U.S., strengthening supply infrastructure and regional energy security. Through its subsidiary CFEnergía, Mexico has esta-
Opportunity For The Relationship TRUMP´SVICTORY:
blished strategic partnerships with TC Energy, New Fortress Energy, and other U.S. firms, facilitating the development of gas pipelines and liquefaction projects that support the flow of natural gas from Texas to various regions of Mexico. These collaborations boost Mexico’s ability to supply its domestic market and establish cross-border infrastructure that maintains energy interdependence between both countries. Under the Trump administration, and with Texas as a strategic ally, these public-private partnerships ensure a stable and efficient energy flow, strengthening trade ties and reinforcing Mexico’s position as a critical link in North America’s energy supply chain.
Wesley Edens, founder and CEO of New Fortress Energy, is a significant figure in U.S.-Mexico energy relations. With a vision centered on expanding access to natural gas, Edens has driven strategic projects in Mexico, such as the floating gas liquefaction plant in Altamira, Tamaulipas, in partnership with CFE. Edens’ leadership at New Fortress Energy has been instrumental in strengthening energy interdependence between both countries, positioning his company as a critical bridge for North America’s
In 2023
Texas became a crucial trading partner for Mexico, with trade reaching nearly $272 billion
energy security and supply. Edens exemplifies the innovative business leader who, through strategic partnerships, promotes essential infrastructure development and strengthens binational energy collaboration.
These binational partnerships ensure the region’s energy supply and underscore the interdependence between the two countries. The Trump administration’s support for these binational energy infrastructure projects promotes shared security and provides a steady flow of energy resources that are essential for North America’s economic and energy stability.
The potential replacement of moderate figures in Trump’s administration with more radical MAGA supporters, such as J.D. Vance, could complicate cooperation with Mexican leaders, especially if significant ideological differences arise.
Texas is not just an economic powerhouse; its leaders considerably influence Trump’s policy direction. Figures such as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller are possible candidates for key positions in Trump’s cabinet, supporting pro-business policies
and facilitating trade with Mexico. Advisors like Kevin Roberts, president of the Heritage Foundation, and Brooke Rollins, former head of Trump’s Office of Innovation, are also poised to shape trade and energy policies, bolstering bilateral cooperation and aligning policies for mutual benefit.
For Mexico, understanding this structure and leveraging the influence of Texas and its key figures in the U.S. government are essential for strengthening its position in the bilateral relationship. Texas is already the economic engine of the USMCA, and Mexico must continue to collaborate with these Texan leaders and businesses to secure a strategy for shared growth.
In 2023, Texas became a crucial trading partner for Mexico, with trade reaching nearly $272 billion. This amount highlights Texas’s significant position among U.S. states in this economic partnership. Major exports include transportation equipment, machinery, and electronics, which strengthen cross-border supply chains and foster collaboration in key industries like automotive and advanced manufacturing. The state’s proximity to Mexico facilitates nearshoring, allowing U.S. companies to relocate production from Asia to Mexico, ultimately lowering costs and shipping times, thereby enhancing competitiveness and strengthening regional economic ties.
Trump has voiced his frustration with trade deficits, calling tariffs “the most beautiful word.” Given that the U.S. goods trade deficit with Mexico increased by $22 billion, reaching $152 billion in 2023, there is concern about the potential imposition of new tariffs that could adversely affect Mexican exports.
At this crucial moment, Mexico needs to act proactively to strengthen its position as the United States’ strategic partner. It must maintain a vision of shared prosperity that promotes economic stability on both sides of the border and allows North America to lead in sectors such as energy and technology.
As the primary beneficiary of trade under the USMCA, Texas will also advocate for this relationship to generate the remarkable growth seen since 2020. If it’s good for business, it’s good for Texas; if it’s good for Texas, it’s undoubtedly good for Mexico.
Thanks to years of hard work, Mexican Jorge Capetillo has opened doors in contact sports, becoming a leading figure.
was the year Jorge
saved Tyson Fury from a loss due to a cut that required 47 stitches.
Mexican trainer Jorge Capetillo proves that hard work, determination, and perseverance pay off. From his gym in Nevada, he is fulfilling the dream of representing the Mexican flag at the highest level.
What began as a wild idea has led him to become one of the most renowned trainers in the United States. His roster includes boxers and mixed martial artists who draw the spotlight. He continues to work to gain ground and elevate his fighters to the next level.
Capetillo takes pride in representing the Mexican style within the Latino community and is dedicated to nurturing the stars of tomorrow while upholding high standards.
“I’m fortunate to live in the boxing mecca, Las Vegas. After New York’s golden years, Las Vegas took its place, and I think it’s a great land for the development of boxing and contact sports. That’s why we stayed here… and boxing continues to grow, thanks to names that now lead the sport, like (Saul) Canelo Alvarez,” said Capetillo, who hails from Guadalajara.
Jorge’s journey crossed paths with boxing when he was very young. His uncle, Javier Capetillo—a high-level trainer for over 50 years—introduced him to the boxer’s life and taught him enough to fall in love with the work in the gym and the adrenaline that fills every moment in the corner of the ring.
“He was a father figure, not only to me but also to his fighters, and that’s how he planted that seed in me. Little by little, I started learning from him, eventually making my way. He was a great inspiration to me, and now we’re carrying on his legacy,” he recalled.
However, he acknowledged that none of what exists today would have been possible without the sacrifices made by him and his family. They left their country of origin and settled in a young Las Vegas, where he worked as a construction helper, mover, and more while they gathered the funds to build their dream from the ground up.
“We started paving our way, like any other endeavor, with perseverance, effort, and never giving up. We endured highs and lows, but with the certainty that everything in life comes in time. That’s how it was for us. The sacrifice must be significant to achieve the goal, and now seeing a gym like this brings great satisfaction,” he added.
Today, Jorge leads Capetillo Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, shaping the boxing scene. Among the fighters who have trained there are former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, the first Mexican heavyweight champion, Andy Ruiz Jr., Venezuelan Jorge
UFC, was a special event where Brandon Moreno defeated Deiveson Figueiredo, the “God of War.”
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We made several initial efforts to start paving the way in this highly competitive sport. The journey has been good because it teaches you to value what you have. We are witnesses that every sacrifice pays off.”
Linares, Cuban Yordenis Ugas, and martial artists like Brandon Moreno, a Mexican UFC pioneer, along with Americans Anthony Pettis and Jorge Masvidal. He also trains new Mexican talents like Lazy Boy (Ronaldo Rodríguez) and Daniel Zellhueber.
Initially, he was focused on boxing, but MMA fighters joined his team over time.
He prohibits his fighters from using profanity in the gym. He promotes respect and teamwork. His wife, Griselda, has been a great pillar for the entire project.
“I’m happy to see how it has grown and how everyone who comes here continues to inspire new generations. I feel honored and blessed because we’ve poured our hearts, love, souls, and passion into this project. We’re a big family,” he explained.
While professional boxing and mixed martial arts provide a great showcase, Capetillo made his project more comprehensive. He opened his doors to children and young people looking for inspiration and motivation in sports, not necessarily aiming for a world championship.
“We’ve seen that the community has come together, and we have several kids. Being able to teach and help them find discipline and goals, even if not everyone is born to be a fighter and not all fighters are born to be champions, is important to understand. With perseverance and discipline, dreams come true,” he concluded.
Gym members are expected to follow clear rules. The gym implements an anti-bullying initiative, along with an inclusion program that promotes respect and honor—core principles of contact sports.
One of his long-term projects includes his son, Dylan, who began practicing the sport years ago. He has participated in over 60 amateur bouts and promises to carry on the Capetillo family legacy.
Four years ago, during the pandemic, his gym was attacked, but with the support of his fighters, he managed to pull through. His focus is not only on building a robust elite group of fighters but also on fostering community and supporting younger athletes.
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jorge Capetillo
Javier Capetillo, Jorge’s inspiration, passed away in 2023, leaving a legacy of over
