Mexico’s July 4th Elections: The Meaning of the PRI Defeats

The following is a press memorandum written by a COHA Research Fellow:

After losing three important states in Sunday’s gubernatorial elections, the luster seemed to be off the comeback trail for Mexico’s PRI. Subsequently, some analysts have pointed to the potential strength of PAN-PRD alliances and the vibrancy of Mexican democracy. Yet these results ultimately show neither a flourishing democratic system nor the emergence of a viable opposition to the PRI.

First, abstention rates on Sunday were not insubstantial, reaching 60-70% in places. This can hardly be qualified as a triumph for democracy as the New York Times suggested on Monday.

For full article click here

This analysis was prepared by COHA Extramural Staff