Morena begins 2027 candidate selection amid crime allegations

Mexico's ruling party, Morena, has initiated its selection process for state coordinators who will eventually become pre-candidates for governorships in the 2027 elections. The party announced Tuesday that Aguascalientes, Campeche, and Colima will be the first states to undergo this procedure.

Ariadna Montiel Reyes, president of Morena's National Executive Committee, and Citlalli Hernández Mora, president of the National Elections Commission, are expected to participate in the announcements. This strategic move by Morena to kick off the gubernatorial race begins just two weeks before the official 2026-2027 electoral process commences on September 10, as approved by the National Electoral Institute (INE).

The candidate selections unfold against a backdrop of significant controversy. Over the weekend, Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa, briefly returned to his post amidst accusations from the U.S. government of ties to organized crime during his campaign and tenure. Reports indicate that nine other officials in his administration have also been implicated in receiving bribes from the Sinaloa Cartel to facilitate their operations. Morena's leadership has stated that the governor's decision to return was personal and not sanctioned by the party.