The influence of Mexican drug cartels threatens both border control and the independence of the judiciary, potentially impacting U.S. strategies against transnational crime. Mexican judges fear for their lives. Things might be getting worse. Judicial Reforms and Concerns Mexico’s Senate passed a judicial reform to allow judges to be elected by popular vote. This decision has sparked controversy and protests, with critics arguing it undermines checks and balances and strengthens the ruling Morena party’s power. This shift could compromise judicial independence and create vulnerabilities to cartel influence. The reform includes provisions for “faceless” judges in organized crime cases, raising concerns about fair trial guarantees. Critics see this as a victory for President López Obrador, who has clashed with the Supreme Court. Mexico faces multiple challenges—from corruption to cartel violence to drug trafficking—that intersect with and amplify each other. But is there anything US policy can do to help Mexico's government address these problems? https://t.co/f9VQ60b3kT — Modern War Institute (@WarInstitute) November 8, 2024 Cartel Influence on Migration Migrants entering Mexico from Guatemala face significant challenges from cartels, who often control their movement more than federal agents. Many experience extortion and kidnapping, impacting their ability to attend CBP One appointments. This poses substantial risks for U.S. border security and immigration policy. This is Tom Homan, President Trump's Border Czar. His message to all the illegals who crossed the border will give you goosebumps, "You better start packing now… cause you're going home." And to the cartels, he said, "Trump will wipe you off the face of the Earth! YOU'RE… pic.twitter.com/ygZICaVVJb — George (@BehizyTweets) November 11, 2024 The cartels’ presence hinders organizations attempting to aid migrants, with reports of violence against aid workers. This scenario intensifies the struggles migrants face and complicates immigration efforts. U.S. Implications and International Responses The Jalisco New Generation drug cartel (CJNG) has significantly been involved in violent crimes, including murders and decapitations in Jalisco. The cartels’ potential influence over judicial elections provides these groups the means to consolidate power further, complicating Mexico’s judiciary’s autonomy, and affecting the U.S.’s battle against drug and human trafficking. The constitutional amendment changing the appointment of judges to elections allows cartels to potentially manipulate the judicial process through financing and intimidation. As the U.S. focuses on combating transnational crime, these developments demand a coordinated international response to address these growing threats. Sources: Migrants and the cartels. Judges in Mexico The post How Mexican Cartels Influence Border Security and Judicial Autonomy appeared first on The Conservative Brief.