WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, released the following statement following the July 1 Mexican presidential election:

“I want to congratulate Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on his victory in the Mexican presidential election, and to applaud the Mexican people for strongly participating in their democratic system and making their voices heard.

“As he prepares to take office later this year, I’m especially eager to learn more about President-elect Obrador’s plans to implement Mexico’s Constitutionally-mandated anti-corruption system, strengthen cross-border security cooperation that prioritizes dealing with crime and drugs while humanely dealing with asylum seekers and refugees, and better protect the lives of journalists, students, and human rights advocates – people who are unjustly targeted and too often killed in Mexico simply because of what they do.

“The bilateral relationship with Mexico is one of America’s most important in the world and more enduring than any individual leaders of either country. Like any neighbors, we have challenges, but at the core is a friendship and a partnership based in part on shared economic, security, and cultural ties. It is my hope that President Trump will use this opportunity to form a more constructive and respectful relationship with Mexico that serves our national security interests, supports our key ally, and reflects our values.”

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