The Trump administration has initiated travel restrictions and sanctions against Mexican politicians suspected of drug corruption, highlighting a new level of pressure on Mexico. The list of targeted individuals includes leaders of President Claudia Sheinbaum’s party, state governors, and figures linked to her predecessor. The governor of Baja California confirmed her visa revocation, emphasizing the lack of wrongdoing. This move poses a political challenge for Sheinbaum, who has balanced asserting Mexico’s sovereignty while addressing U.S. demands to combat drug trafficking.

The administration’s actions stem from concerns about Mexico providing safe havens for drug cartels, leading to a crackdown on drug trafficking organizations. The initiative involves designating major Mexican trafficking groups as terrorist organizations and exploring potential military actions. A White House team, overseen by Stephen Miller, is spearheading the security policy with Mexico, targeting officials with alleged criminal ties to drug trafficking.

The visa sanctions may be accompanied by Treasury Department sanctions, restricting business dealings and freezing assets in the U.S. Some U.S. officials have raised questions about the evidentiary standards for these actions. While the measures signal a tough stance against corruption, they risk straining U.S.-Mexico relations and impacting Sheinbaum’s diplomatic standing. The situation underscores the complex dynamics of combating corruption and criminal ties within Mexican politics, contrasting approaches between current and former administrations.