Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Another Veracruz mayoral candidate killed in the lead-up to Mexico’s June 1 municipal elections has intensified concerns over political violence in the region.
Yesenia Lara Gutiérrez, a Morena party candidate, was shot and killed on May 11, 2025, during a campaign caravan in Texistepec, a small town in southern Veracruz. The attack was captured in a Facebook livestream, where roughly 20 gunshots rang out, turning a festive rally into chaos.
Four others—among them, her daughter—were also killed. Three more were wounded.
Takeaway: Another campaign ends in bloodshed, reinforcing how dangerous local politics in Veracruz has become.
No Arrests, No Answers
Witnesses say at least two or three attackers opened fire, but no arrests have been made. Authorities haven’t confirmed a motive.
Given the history of organized crime targeting local elections, many suspect criminal involvement—especially as this is now the second Veracruz mayoral candidate killed in under two weeks.
Takeaway: With no suspects in custody, fear and frustration continue to mount.
A Pattern of Violence
On April 29, 2025, another Veracruz mayoral candidate killed was Germán Anuar Valencia, also of the Morena party. He was shot at his campaign headquarters in Coxquihui.
Both killings happened just weeks before elections in all 212 municipalities in the state.
Takeaway: Veracruz is emerging as one of Mexico’s most dangerous places to run for office.
Officials Condemn the Attack
Governor Rocío Nahle called the killing “an attack on democracy,” promising a full investigation. President Claudia Sheinbaum also condemned the violence.
At least 57 local candidates in Veracruz have formally requested protection, but it remains unclear whether Lara Gutiérrez was among them.
Takeaway: Authorities are pledging justice—but confidence in safety is slipping.
Organized Crime and Local Control
Experts say criminal groups often target local races to gain control of municipalities, which oversee law enforcement, public works, and local budgets.
Each Veracruz mayoral candidate killed this cycle underscores how cartels use intimidation and violence to influence politics from the ground up.
Takeaway: The deeper threat is institutional—organized crime sees local power as leverage.
Same Day, More Violence
Just hours after the Texistepec shooting, reports emerged that two federal agents and one other individual were killed in Boca del Rio, also in Veracruz. The government hasn’t confirmed whether the incidents are related.
Takeaway: Veracruz saw two deadly attacks in one day—both tied to public institutions.
Election Day Draws Near
With municipal and judicial elections set for June 1, the situation in Veracruz is tense. The state reported 13 incidents of political violence in the first quarter of 2025 alone.
Citizens and candidates alike are left questioning how safe it will be to show up at the polls—or even run at all.
Takeaway: As the election approaches, voters must weigh not just politics—but personal safety.
Final Takeaway
Each Veracruz mayoral candidate killed is a warning sign. Mexico’s upcoming local elections are unfolding under the shadow of fear, with organized crime threatening not just candidates—but democracy itself.
