Aristoteles Sandoval, Jalisco’s youthful new governor, looks to have much going for him as he embarks on a six-year term of office. With the National Action Party (PAN) in total disarray and the nascent Citizens’ Movement trying to develop state-wide base support, the lack of a demanding opposition should make his early months smooth sailing. The backing of the powerful and authoritarian overlords of the University of Guadalajara (UdG) will be a huge plus. Rector-elect Tonatuih Padilla has predicted the relationship will be a profitable one and that he does not foresee any student demonstrations or protests against state government policy. Whether the usually “brain-washed” students are so completely enamored with the 39-year-old Sandoval – an ex UdG alumni – is another matter: they had the courage to boo him during one of his first public appearances at the Guadalajara International Film Festival last weekend. However, he has promised to give them free transportation within his first 100 days in office – an enticing carrot.
Also aiding Sandoval is the appointment of Arturo Zamora as his secretary general (effectively a vice governor). Zamora – a former Zapopan mayor and candidate for governor – has stepped down from the Senate to take on this important role, that includes serving as the state’s chief liaison with the federal government. Interestingly, sources confirm that he was hoisted upon Sandoval by the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) National Executive Committee, who may feel the 39-year-old needs an experienced hand at his side to guide him through the potential minefield of a state as diverse as Jalisco.
While he will be keen to promote investment and new infrastructure, Sandoval can afford to revisit polemic projects, such as the Zapotillo Dam in northern Jalisco and some of the coastal tourism megaprojects, thus endearing himself to provincial core PRI supporters who felt abused by developers and PAN politicians. His more liberal social attitudes do not exactly coincide with the Catholic hierarchy, but since he does not endorse same-sex marriage or even the legalization of abortion, the relationship should prove to be a tranquil one.
So until a credible opposition emerges in the state, Sandoval will have an easy time in office. And unlike his predecessor Emilio Gonzalez, who frequently suffered from “foot in mouth” disease, Sandoval is cautious with his remarks and, like his alter ego President Enrique Peña Nieto, is being meticulously stage managed.