Mexico gears up for first-ever public election for judges

Mexico will hold its first-ever public election for federal judges, including Supreme Court justices, across the country on June 1 marking a shift in the nation's judicial selection process.

The elections will fill 881 federal judicial positions, including nine Supreme Court justices, Electoral Tribunal magistrates, and district judges.

The initiative stems from constitutional reform enacted in September 2024, which changed the judiciary from an appointment-based system to one determined by popular vote.

Proponents, including President Claudia Sheinbaum and her predecessor, argue that electing judges will enhance accountability and reduce corruption within the judiciary.

However, opponents expressed concerns that it may compromise judicial independence, making judges susceptible to political and criminal influence.

Voters will receive six separate ballots to elect officials across various judicial levels.

However, the complexity of the process means expected voter turnout below 30 percent.