MEXICO MOVES TO ANNUL ELECTIONS OVER FOREIGN INTERFERENCE

Mexico's lower house approved a constitutional amendment Thursday that would allow elections to be annulled if foreign interference is proven. Reuters reported that the measure passed with 307 votes in favour, 128 against, and one abstention, but still requires Senate approval before becoming law.

The amendment defines foreign interference broadly, including illicit financing, propaganda, systematic disinformation, digital manipulation, and pressure from foreign governments through political, economic, diplomatic, or media channels. Supporters, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, argue the reform would protect Mexico's sovereignty and give courts clearer tools to respond when outside actors attempt to shape domestic elections.

Critics warn the measure could weaken electoral certainty if its definitions are applied too broadly. Opposition lawmakers raised concerns that the reform could become a tool for challenging valid election results, especially if secondary legislation does not clearly define what counts as interference, what evidence is required, and how courts should separate foreign pressure from ordinary international coverage or political commentary.

The proposal lands during a period of heightened concern over organized crime, foreign influence, and institutional trust in Mexico. Congress also passed a separate bill barring candidates with ties to organized crime, following recent U.S. indictments involving Mexican officials. The Senate process will determine whether the foreign-interference amendment becomes a narrow election-security safeguard or a new source of post-election conflict.