Sheinbaum Warns Morena Officials to Resign Over Corruption Allegations Amid U.S. Pressure

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has reportedly urged officials from her ruling Morena party to step down if they are involved in corruption, according to two party insiders. The warning comes as the United States increases pressure on Mexican politicians allegedly linked to powerful drug cartels, intensifying tensions between the neighboring countries.

Sources told Reuters that Sheinbaum delivered the message during a private meeting with Morena governors at the National Palace last Thursday. She reportedly repeated the same warning during a meeting with party lawmakers on May 7. Neither the Mexican presidency nor Morena officials responded publicly to requests for comment.

According to one source, Sheinbaum gave party members a clear ultimatum, telling them that anyone connected to suspicious or illegal activities should resign and face the consequences. While she did not mention specific names, the comments are widely seen as connected to the recent U.S. indictment involving Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha and several current and former Mexican officials accused of ties to the Sinaloa Cartel.

Rocha, a close ally of former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, has denied all allegations but temporarily stepped aside while local investigations continue. The case has reportedly created divisions within Morena, with some members defending Rocha against what they view as U.S. interference, while others support stronger anti-corruption efforts within the party.

The controversy has also fueled concerns that the United States could expand the use of anti-terrorism laws against Mexican political figures or organizations. Although Sheinbaum publicly dismissed fears that Morena could be labeled a foreign terrorist organization, insiders claim she privately warned party leaders that ongoing corruption scandals could threaten Morena’s future.

Meanwhile, relations between Mexico and the U.S. remain strained following disputes over anti-cartel operations and the role of American personnel in Mexico. As security cooperation becomes increasingly sensitive, Sheinbaum is expected to meet with U.S. officials this week to address growing diplomatic and security tensions between the two nations.