Abraham Mendieta: The 129th senator who makes even those at home uncomfortable
Abraham Mendieta, at a Morena campaign event.
porEditorial Team
Mexico
The presence and privileges of the Spanish advisor generate tensions within Morena, the ruling party.
Abraham Mendieta Rodríguez, Spanish political scientist and advisor to Morena, has caused controversy within the party. His influence in the Senate and the privileges he receives have caused discomfort among some legislators.
Although he is not Mexican and has not been elected, some members of Morena call him the "129th senator". The nickname refers to the 128 official senators of the Upper House.
Mendieta se desempeña como asesor de morena.
Office in the Senate and benefits
Reports indicate that Mendieta has an office on the fifth floor of the Senate. This space was assigned to Senator Andrea Chávez, who now occupies another office as spokesperson for the caucus.
Additionally, he receives a considerable salary and has access to exclusive benefits for Morena legislators.
Mendieta y Andrea Chávez, senadora morenista por Chihuahua.
These advantages have caused discontent among some senators. Many question the presence of a foreigner in Mexico's political affairs.
Allegations of favoritism
The closeness between Mendieta and Andrea Chávez has caused criticism within the Senate. Some legislators consider that there is a conflict of interest and preferential treatment.
This is not the first time Mendieta has faced controversies. In 2019, senators from the National Action Party (PAN) asked the federal Executive to apply Article 33 of the Constitution. Their argument was that Mendieta entered Mexico as a tourist but participated in national politics.
Lilly Téllez, Senadora del PAN, pidió que Mendieta fuera expulsado del pais.
Tensions within Morena
The growing influence of Mendieta and his special treatment have caused divisions in Morena. Some consider his advice valuable. Others believe that his privileges affect national sovereignty and go against the party's principles.