Mexico’s incoming president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has unveiled her new cabinet, signaling a continuation of existing policies and retaining several familiar faces from the previous administration. Sheinbaum’s appointments have sparked a mix of reactions, as she brings together a blend of old allies and new appointees.
Key Appointments and Responsibilities
Rosa Icela Rodríguez has been appointed as the next interior secretary, the highest domestic political position. Rodríguez previously headed outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s security strategy, which did not significantly reduce the country’s high levels of violence. Her new role involves handling negotiations with protesters and managing relations with Mexico’s 32 state governors.
Omar García Harfuch, who served as Mexico City police chief under Sheinbaum’s tenure as mayor, will lead the Public Safety Department. Harfuch is known for his efforts in reducing homicides in the capital, although his reported statistics have faced scrutiny. He gained national respect after surviving a violent 2020 drug cartel ambush that left him wounded and resulted in three deaths.
Sheinbaum has committed to transferring control of the National Guard, Mexico’s main law enforcement agency, from the Public Safety Department to the Army. This shift means Harfuch will mainly oversee the country’s prison system when he assumes his new role.
Continuity with López Obrador’s Administration
Despite expectations for a fresh approach, many of Sheinbaum’s cabinet selections reflect a continuation of López Obrador’s policies. Sheinbaum, a member of López Obrador’s Morena party, has pledged to maintain his strategies, including the “hugs not bullets” approach to drug cartels and the militarization of law enforcement.
Rogelio Ramírez de la O will remain in his position as Treasury Secretary, responsible for controlling the nation’s spending and budget. His retention ensures continuity in Mexico’s financial policy, aligning with López Obrador’s economic strategies.
Juan Ramón de la Fuente, a former academic and Mexico’s ambassador to the United Nations, has been appointed as Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Known for his calm and diplomatic demeanor, de la Fuente brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for effective international negotiation to the role.
Strategic Selections and Anticipated Decisions
In a notable appointment, Luz Elena González has been chosen as the next Secretary of Energy. An expert in sustainable development, González’s expertise is expected to drive forward Mexico’s energy policies, though the role is considered less influential compared to the head of the state-owned oil company, Petroleos Mexicanos.
One of the most influential roles in the Mexican government, the defense secretary, remains unfilled. Traditionally, this position is chosen from a list submitted by top army generals, ensuring the military’s continued sway over the appointment. The forthcoming decision is eagerly awaited, as it will shed light on Sheinbaum’s stance on military leadership and defense strategy.
Sheinbaum’s cabinet announcement has been met with mixed reactions. While some appreciate the experience and continuity offered by retaining key figures from López Obrador’s administration, others had hoped for a more innovative and expert-driven team. Sheinbaum, known for her data-driven policy approach, was expected to break away from the pattern of loyalty-based appointments that characterized López Obrador’s tenure.
The appointment of Rodríguez, who has no experience in electoral campaigns or as an elected official, stands out as a significant departure from the norm. Traditionally, the interior secretary role has been filled by seasoned politicians, often former state governors, who possess strong negotiating skills crucial for the position.
Balancing Continuity and New Strategie
As Sheinbaum prepares to take office on October 1, her cabinet selections underscore a commitment to continuity with López Obrador’s administration while introducing a few new faces. The blend of experienced officials and fresh appointments sets the stage for her presidency, which promises to balance the existing policies with the potential for new strategies in areas such as public safety and energy. The forthcoming announcement of the defense secretary will further define her administration’s direction and approach to governance in Mexico.
