Sheinbaum dismisses Cabeza de Vaca's presidential ambitions, citing his exile

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo has cast doubt on the presidential aspirations of former Tamaulipas Governor Francisco García Cabeza de Vaca for the 2030 election. Sheinbaum pointedly remarked that it is "very difficult to be a candidate and launch your candidacy from another country," referencing Cabeza de Vaca's current residence in Texas, USA.

During a press conference, Sheinbaum also questioned whether the former governor could legitimately seek office given the ongoing arrest warrants for money laundering and organized crime. She noted that he is still considered a fugitive from justice. She recalled a past instance where a political opponent faced similar legal challenges that prevented their candidacy.

Cabeza de Vaca had recently announced his intentions to run for president, asserting that the Mexican Constitution permits him to do so. In a video shared on social media, he stated, "And yes, Madam President, I had already thought about it, the Constitution does allow me to be president of my country and now with more desire, in order to get you out once and for all." He also claimed that he and his family are victims of political persecution, with fabricated charges related to property transactions.

Sheinbaum, however, reviewed the constitutional requirements for the presidency, specifically Article 82 of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States. While she acknowledged that having arrest warrants is not explicitly listed as a disqualifier in the constitution, she continued to express skepticism regarding Cabeza de Vaca's political future given his legal situation and his location outside of Mexico.