Mexico: Samuel Garcia Drops From 2024 Presidential Race

By BERT HOOVER Dec 03 2023, 21:23 PM EST

In a surprising turn of events, Samuel Garcia, a prominent contender in the upcoming Mexico 2024 presidential election, has opted to withdraw from the race, according to Reuters.

Garcia, aged 35, communicated his decision through a statement released by his center-left Citizens' Movement (MC) party, expressing his choice to return to his role as governor of the northern state of Nuevo Leon.

"I have decided to not participate in the electoral race for President of the Republic," Garcia stated, marking a departure from his previous commitment to seek the candidacy of MC.

This decision has notable consequences for both Garcia's political trajectory and the broader landscape of Mexico 2024 presidential election.

Samuel Garcia Leaves Mexico 2024 Presidential Election To Put His State in Order

Governor Samuel Garcia's withdrawal unfolded amid a tumultuous episode in Mexican politics, AP reports.

The border state of Nuevo Leon witnessed a unique situation on Friday when two interim governors were briefly designated to replace Garcia, who had initially requested a six-month leave of absence to focus on his presidential campaign.

Mexican law mandates that any official intending to run for office must resign or take leave at least six months before the election.

With the June 2024 presidential vote approaching, Friday marked the deadline for Garcia to make this decision.

However, faced with a contentious situation, Garcia had to forgo his presidential aspirations to restore order to his state.

In an attempt to ensure a smooth transition, Garcia appointed a Cabinet member to serve as interim governor.

However, the state congress, where Garcia's party holds a minority, exercised its formal right to name the interim governor and selected an assistant prosecutor unaffiliated with Garcia's party.

This decision sparked protests, leading to a standoff that involved protesters breaking into the state legislature building.

Reacting to the unfolding events, Garcia announced his decision to abandon his leave of absence and resume his duties as governor.

This turn of events highlights the complexities and tensions inherent in the intersection of Garcia's political ambitions and the governance of Nuevo Leon.

Consequences of Samuel Garcia's Election Withdrawal

Garcia's withdrawal carries significant implications for the ongoing electoral process, per BNN.

As a candidate trailing in recent polls with around 10% support, Garcia's departure leaves a void that the Movimiento Ciudadano party must swiftly address.

Party leader Dante Delgado indicated that the selection process for a new candidate would be determined in the coming days, with an anticipated announcement on January 20.

The abrupt exit of Garcia has raised questions about the party's ability to find a replacement candidate of stature.

The agreement formalizing Garcia's withdrawal will take effect upon its publication in the state's official newspaper.

With Garcia out of the race, the 2024 presidential competition now narrows down to candidates from the ruling Morena party and the opposition coalition, both of whom are women.

This development virtually ensures that Mexico's next president will be a woman.

Additionally, Garcia's return to his gubernatorial duties safeguards Movimiento Ciudadano's control of the state, adding another layer to the evolving political landscape in Mexico.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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