Monreal dismisses impact of legislator leaves on Congress work; estimates 20-30 requests

Ricardo Monreal, the coordinator for the Morena party in the Chamber of Deputies, asserted that legislative activities will remain unaffected by an anticipated wave of leaves of absence sought by lawmakers. These legislators are expected to pursue candidacies for the 2027 elections.

Monreal acknowledged that between 20 and 30 congress members might request leaves. He noted that approximately 12 deputies and around 24 senators are anticipated to seek these leaves soon. He explained that this period of absence is necessary for those aspiring to leadership roles within the party to avoid using public resources during their campaigns.

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Well, it won't affect [work], Fernando, because we are in recess. I have received six deputies who were going to request leave today; Raymundo, from Tlaxcala; Graciela, from Sinaloa; I also received [representatives] from Zacatecas... I estimate that about 12 deputies will request leave in the coming days, and about 22, 24 senators will also do so.

Separately, Monreal addressed remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who criticized Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. Trump accused her of being "a scared woman" and claimed her government had "lost control of the country." Monreal strongly refuted these claims, describing them as "very far from reality." He praised Sheinbaum as brave, firm, dignified, and sovereign, stating he could never agree with Trump's assessment. Monreal suggested Trump's comments were politically motivated and aimed at influencing elections.

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I believe President Trump's opinion is very far from reality. I believe President Claudia Sheinbaum is brave, firm, very strong-willed, and with a very sovereign attitude, a very dignified attitude. No, I could never agree with President Trump.