Mexico's INE Cracks Down on Vote-Buying Schemes in Judicial Elections

Mexico's INE Bans Ballot Guides Amid Judicial Election Vote-Buying Concerns Mexico City – In a significant move to ensure fair elections, Mexico's National Electoral Institute (INE) has unanimously banned the distribution of "acordeones," or pre-filled ballot guides, during the upcoming judicial elections. The decision, announced on May 30th, 2025, follows reports of widespread distribution of these guides, allegedly aimed at influencing voters. INE councilors have described this practice as akin to vote buying and coercion, stating that it undermines the integrity of the electoral process. "This is a clear violation of electoral law," said one INE councilor in an interview featured in the video. "We will not tolerate any attempts to manipulate the outcome of this crucial election." The INE has launched an investigation into the distribution of the "acordeones" and will impose sanctions on those found responsible. The video shows examples of the confiscated guides, which clearly indicate preferred candidates. While the INE's actions have been largely praised, the ruling party, Morena, has downplayed the significance of the ban, with Ricardo Monreal, Morena's coordinator in the Chamber of Deputies, claiming that the "acordeones" do not affect the legitimacy of the election. However, this stance contrasts sharply with the INE's serious concerns about electoral integrity. The INE's swift and decisive response sends a strong message that vote manipulation will not be tolerated in Mexico's democratic processes.