Sheinbaum's defense of migrants reflects broader diplomatic tensions between Mexico and the U.S.
Mexico's President Takes a Stand Against U.S. Anti-Migrant Ads
Mexico's President Takes a Stand Against U.S. Anti-Migrant Ads
Claudia Sheinbaum responds forcefully to Kristi Noem's controversial television campaigns targeting migrants.
April 22, 2025, 5:53 p.m. ET – In a bold move against U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico has launched an all-out rebuke against Noem's inflammatory advertisements airing across Mexican television networks. The ads, which focus on blaming migrants for ill effects like violence and drug trafficking in the U.S., have ignited considerable backlash and prompted action from Sheinbaum's administration.
Noem's campaign, which ominously warned viewers that “We will hunt you down,” aired during key time slots such as prime-time soccer matches, ensuring maximum visibility. Facing ballooning tariffs and increasing political pressure from U.S. President Trump, Sheinbaum has found herself in a precarious position as she works to shield Mexico’s economy from adverse effects stemming from U.S. policies.
In a direct response to Noem's messages, Sheinbaum characterized the ads as "discriminatory" during a recent press conference. She requested Mexican broadcasting companies to pull the ads immediately. Following this, Sheinbaum announced ambitions to collaborate with the Mexican Congress on legislation that would prohibit foreign governments from disseminating ideological propaganda within Mexico's borders.
Her actions signify a significant turning point in Mexico's diplomatic dealings with the Trump administration. Sheinbaum's pushback illustrates the limits her government is prepared to impose as they reassess their relationship with their northern neighbor—particularly in light of looming tariffs that challenge Mexico's export-driven economy and the potential for unilateral military actions against drug cartels.
Noem's campaign, which ominously warned viewers that “We will hunt you down,” aired during key time slots such as prime-time soccer matches, ensuring maximum visibility. Facing ballooning tariffs and increasing political pressure from U.S. President Trump, Sheinbaum has found herself in a precarious position as she works to shield Mexico’s economy from adverse effects stemming from U.S. policies.
In a direct response to Noem's messages, Sheinbaum characterized the ads as "discriminatory" during a recent press conference. She requested Mexican broadcasting companies to pull the ads immediately. Following this, Sheinbaum announced ambitions to collaborate with the Mexican Congress on legislation that would prohibit foreign governments from disseminating ideological propaganda within Mexico's borders.
Her actions signify a significant turning point in Mexico's diplomatic dealings with the Trump administration. Sheinbaum's pushback illustrates the limits her government is prepared to impose as they reassess their relationship with their northern neighbor—particularly in light of looming tariffs that challenge Mexico's export-driven economy and the potential for unilateral military actions against drug cartels.
