Mexico’s Senate on Wednesday approved Ernestina Godoy, a longtime ally of President Claudia Sheinbaum, as the country’s new attorney general. The decision, backed by the ruling Morena party and its coalition partners, marks a crucial political victory for the president as she consolidates control of key institutions early in her term.
Godoy, 71, will serve a nine-year term following the resignation of Alejandro Gertz, who unexpectedly stepped down last week. She previously served as Mexico City’s chief prosecutor under Sheinbaum and later became her chief legal advisor after the president’s 2024 election win. The Senate vote came just hours after Sheinbaum submitted her shortlist of candidates for the role.
In her remarks before lawmakers, Godoy recognized the weight of her new responsibilities. “Mexico faces historic challenges and new ones emerging from the evolution of crime,” she said, adding that “the quality of justice is still not up to the standard our country needs.” She also pledged to maintain judicial integrity: “We will not frame the innocent, there will be no political persecution, nor will there be impunity.”
A decisive appointment for Sheinbaum’s administration
Godoy’s confirmation is widely viewed as a move to ensure political alignment between the attorney general’s office and the presidency, particularly as Sheinbaum pushes ahead with her national security and judicial reform agenda. Her background in civil organizations and legislative work has made her one of the most influential legal figures within Morena’s inner circle.
Supporters argue that her appointment will bring continuity and professionalism to a justice system long criticized for inefficiency and corruption. Critics, however, fear that placing a presidential ally in such a powerful post could compromise prosecutorial independence.
The swearing-in ceremony, expected in the coming days, will formalize her role as Mexico’s top law enforcement official. Godoy’s tenure will likely shape the country’s approach to organized crime, corruption cases, and judicial reform for nearly a decade — and serve as an early test of Sheinbaum’s ability to balance loyalty with accountability.