🇲🇽 Mexico's First Woman President Takes Office Amidst Criticism and Challenges
🏙️ Tucson's Downtown Revival: A Model for Urban Renewal?
Based on the 10/07/24 Buckmaster Show on KVOI-1030AM.
🙊 Notable quotes from the show
"I'm completely unimpressed by the woman herself and her ability to articulate a message." - Keith Rosenblum on President Claudia Sheinbaum, who has a Ph.D. in Physics.
"There is no aggressive or open opposition to the cartels." - Keith Rosenblum on Mexico's approach to cartel violence
"We've doubled the tax base. And it's important to note that in every other jurisdiction in the state, retail is down. Our retail has doubled." - Fletcher McCusker on Tucson's downtown development
"They have no idea. They have no idea of Sonora. They have no idea what the Rio Sonora is. They have no idea what the Sierra is. They have no idea of anything." - Keith Rosenblum on Mexico's national police force
⏮️ ICYMI: From the Last Show…
🧪 PFAS and TCE: A Tale of Two Toxins Haunting Tucson's Aquifers
Based on the 10/4/24 Buckmaster Show on KVOI-1030AM.
😽 Keepin’ It Simple Summary for Younger Readers
👧🏾✊🏾👦🏾
Mexico 🇲🇽 just got its first woman president 👩💼, but some people worry she might not make big changes. There's also a problem with bad guys 🦹♂️ getting guns 🔫 from the U.S., which is making Mexico less safe in some places. At the same time, the city of Tucson 🏙️ is growing and getting cooler, with new shops and places to live downtown. Mexico is also dealing with big storms 🌀 that are hurting cities like Acapulco. It's a lot of big stuff happening all at once!
🗝️ Takeaways
🇲🇽 Mexico's new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, faces skepticism about her independence from former president López Obrador
🔫 U.S. weapons flowing into Mexico are escalating cartel violence to alarming levels
👮 Mexico's centralization of police forces raises concerns about local autonomy and effective law enforcement
🏙️ Tucson's downtown revitalization efforts are showing significant success, doubling the local tax base
🌊 Natural disasters like hurricanes are compounding Mexico's existing political and security challenges
🏘️ Mixed-use urban development and adaptive reuse of spaces like parking lots represent the future of city planning
Jump to the 🦉 Three Sonorans Commentary based on:
📻 What They Discussed
🎙️ Buckmaster Show Tackles Mexico's Challenges and Tucson's Development
On October 7, 2024, the Buckmaster Show, hosted by veteran journalist Bill Buckmaster, featured an in-depth discussion on Mexican politics, U.S.-Mexico border issues, and local Tucson development. The show's guests were
Keith Rosenblum, a long-time border observer and former journalist for major Arizona newspapers and
Fletcher McCusker, the Rio Nuevo District Downtown Tucson's Revitalization Board chair.
Rosenblum brought his extensive experience on border issues, while McCusker provided insights into Tucson's urban development and economic growth.
🇲🇽 New Leadership, Old Problems: Sheinbaum's Presidency Begins
The discussion began with Keith Rosenblum's analysis of Claudia Sheinbaum's recent inauguration as Mexico's new president. Despite the historic nature of her presidency - she's the first woman and first Jewish person to hold the office - Rosenblum's assessment was decidedly unenthusiastic.
He described Sheinbaum's inaugural address as "drab and unimaginative," suggesting that her presidency will likely continue her predecessor Andrés Manuel López Obrador's policies rather than a fresh start for Mexico.
Rosenblum argued that Sheinbaum's apparent lack of independence is troubling, describing her as "a clone of President López Obrador," who he effectively chose. This perception of Sheinbaum as a puppet of the previous administration raises concerns about Mexico's democratic processes and the potential for meaningful change in the country's governance.
The conversation touched on the concept of political debts and transition periods in Mexican politics, with Rosenblum suggesting that it might take up to two years before Sheinbaum shows any signs of independence or individuality in her governance.
🔫 Fueling the Fire: U.S. Weapons and Mexican Cartel Violence
One of the most alarming topics discussed was the role of U.S. weapons in fueling cartel violence in Mexico. Rosenblum highlighted the recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a case involving lawsuits against gun manufacturers and stores for their alleged role in arming cartels.
The ease with which cartels seem to obtain high-powered weapons from the U.S. is staggering. Buckmaster mentioned specific examples, such as the MT-34 minigun, which can fire 4,000 rounds per minute and is priced at $50,000, and the M249 SAW light machine gun, which can fire 850 rounds and costs around $10,000.
Rosenblum raised important questions about the U.S. government's role in this issue, suggesting that U.S. intelligence agencies likely have detailed knowledge of these weapons transfers but may choose not to act on this information.
👮 Centralizing Control: Mexico's National Police Force
The show delved into Mexico's controversial move to centralize its police forces under the Guardia Nacional. Rosenblum criticized this shift, arguing that it undermines local knowledge and control.
He stated, "Of the many areas where Mexico is simply eliminating its democratic ways, one of them is the national police force because police forces are no longer under local control."
According to Rosenblum, this centralization has led to officers being often unfamiliar with the areas they're policing. This policy has significant implications, potentially reducing the effectiveness of law enforcement and making it easier for the federal government to exert control over local areas.
🚗 No-Go Zones: Mexico's Dangerous Territories
Rosenblum asserted that approximately one-fourth of Mexico is now too dangerous for travel. He specifically mentioned several areas, including the highway between Tijuana and Santa Ana, the route between Acapulco and Mexico City, and throughout the state of Michoacan.
This situation has serious implications for tourism and the daily lives of Mexicans living in these areas. It suggests a level of cartel control that challenges the very sovereignty of the Mexican state in certain regions.
🌀 When It Rains, It Pours: Natural Disasters Compound Mexico's Woes
The show touched on the recent natural disasters that have hit Mexico, particularly the hurricanes that have devastated Acapulco.
Rosenblum described Acapulco as "just basically a disaster," highlighting how these natural calamities compound the country's existing problems.
🏙️ Tucson's Renaissance: Downtown Development and Economic Growth
The conversation shifted gears with the introduction of Fletcher McCusker, who provided insights into Tucson's urban development and economic growth. As the Rio Nuevo District chair, McCusker shared positive news about downtown Tucson's revitalization efforts.
McCusker highlighted the success of the Rio Nuevo project, stating, "We've doubled the tax base. And it's important to note that every other jurisdiction in the state, retail is down. Our retail has doubled."
According to McCusker, this growth has been primarily driven by the restaurant and bar business, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The discussion touched on the increasing attractiveness of downtown Tucson. McCusker shared an anecdote about a couple who recently moved from Los Angeles to Tucson, citing the downtown area as a major draw. This suggests that Tucson's development efforts are benefiting locals and attracting new residents from larger cities.
🏨 Hotel Boom and Tourism
McCusker detailed the growth in Tucson's hotel industry, mentioning several new hotels that have recently opened or are under construction.
He noted the shift in preference from large, 750-bed hotels to smaller, boutique establishments with around 25 beds. This trend aligns with changing traveler preferences and contributes to the unique character of Tucson's downtown area.
🚊 The Impact of the Streetcar
The conversation highlighted the streetcar's significant role in downtown Tucson's development. McCusker emphasized how businesses sought to locate along the streetcar line, driving development along its route.
He stated, "When that streetcar launched, the businesses that were coming downtown wanted to be along the line."
🏘️ Residential Development in Downtown Tucson
McCusker provided insights into the booming residential scene in downtown Tucson. He mentioned that there are currently about 2,000 apartment units downtown, which is projected to double in the next five years.
Interestingly, he noted that the demographics of downtown residents are split between retirees and millennials, reflecting a diverse and vibrant urban community.
💼 Economic Development and Future Prospects
The discussion touched on McCusker's involvement with UA Ventures, a venture capital fund designed to commercialize University of Arizona science, technology, services, and products. This initiative represents an important link between academic research and economic development in the region.
McCusker also discussed the potential for future development, particularly in underutilized parking areas around Tucson. He suggested that these spaces could be transformed into mixed-use developments with residential units and restaurants.
🚓 Downtown Safety and Security
Addressing concerns about safety in downtown Tucson, McCusker emphasized the measures taken to ensure security.
He mentioned that Rio Nuevo spends $60,000 monthly on hiring off-duty police officers to patrol the area, contributing to general safety among visitors and residents.
🚗 Regional Transportation Authority
The show briefly touched on efforts to renew the Regional Transportation Authority program. McCusker praised the work of individuals like Ted Maxwell and Mayor Romero in reaching compromises to move this initiative forward.
This wide-ranging discussion provided listeners with a comprehensive overview of the challenges facing Mexico and the U.S.-Mexico border region and the positive developments occurring in Tucson's urban core. The contrast between the two segments of the show highlighted the complex and varied nature of issues affecting the broader region, from international relations and security concerns to local economic development and urban planning.
🦉 Three Sonorans Commentary
Unmasking the Truth Behind Borders, Guns, and Progress
In the sweltering heat of the Sonoran Desert, where ancestral lands span an arbitrary line drawn by colonizers, we once again confront the complexities of US-Mexico relations and the struggles for justice on both sides of la frontera.
The recent Buckmaster Show, featuring "border expert" Keith Rosenblum and Tucson developer Fletcher McCusker, provided a stark reminder of the entrenched biases and neoliberal perspectives that continue to shape the discourse around our communities.
🇲🇽 Claudia Sheinbaum: A New Dawn for Mexico
Let's start with the elephant in the room – or should we say, the jaguar in the Zócalo? Rosenblum's dismissive attitude towards Mexico's new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, reeks of the same old gringo arrogance that has poisoned US-Mexico relations for centuries.
When Rosenblum states, "I'm completely unimpressed by the woman herself and by her ability to articulate a message," we hear echoes of the patriarchal and imperialist attitudes that have long sought to undermine progressive leadership in Latin America.
Compañeros, make no mistake – Claudia Sheinbaum represents a continuation of the progressive policies transforming Mexico under AMLO's leadership.
As the first woman and first Jewish person to hold Mexico's highest office, Sheinbaum embodies the diversity and forward-thinking approach that Mexico needs.
Her background as a scientist with a Ph.D. positions her uniquely to tackle the pressing issues of our time, especially climate change – a stark contrast to the science deniers who hold sway in much of the US political landscape.
🔫 The Real Culprit: US Guns Fueling Cartel Violence
While Rosenblum wrings his hands over Mexico's security situation, he conveniently glosses over the US's central role in fueling the violence. The flow of high-powered weapons from the US to Mexican cartels is not just a "border issue" – it's a damning indictment of America's gun culture and the profit-driven arms industry.
Rosenblum hints at this reality when he says, "It makes me wonder myself just how either, I hate the word complicit, but how much we know and don't help out when it comes to what's happening along our border."
But he stops short of calling out the true culprits: US gun manufacturers and the politicians who protect them.
The fact that cartels can easily obtain weapons like the MT-34 minigun, capable of firing 4,000 rounds per minute, is a testament to the US's prioritization of profits over human lives. Until we address this flood of deadly weapons, any discussion of Mexico's security challenges is nothing more than victim-blaming on a national scale.
👮 Centralizing Police Forces: A Nuanced Debate
Rosenblum's criticism of Mexico's move to centralize its police forces under the Guardia Nacional deserves a more nuanced analysis. While local control can be important, we must also recognize the challenges Mexico has faced with corrupt local police forces often in the pocket of cartels.
When Rosenblum says, "They have no idea. They have no idea of Sonora. They have no idea what the Rio Sonora is. They have no idea what the Sierra is," he's painting with too broad a brush.
Many Guardia Nacional members are drawn from local communities and bring valuable knowledge to their roles. The centralization effort aims to create a more professional, better-trained force less susceptible to local corruption—a goal we should support while remaining vigilant against potential abuses.
🏙️ Urban Development: Progress for Whom?
The conversation with Fletcher McCusker about Tucson's downtown development raises important questions about gentrification and equitable urban growth.
While McCusker boasts, "We've doubled the tax base. And it's important to note that every other jurisdiction in the state, retail is down. Our retail has doubled," we must ask: who benefits from this growth?
Are long-time barrio residents being displaced? Are new developments accessible to working-class families, or are they catering exclusively to wealthy transplants and tourists? True progress must lift up all members of our community, not just those with deep pockets.
🌵 The Path Forward: Solidarity Across Borders
As we confront these challenges, the Three Sonorans calls for solidarity across borders. We must:
Support President Sheinbaum and progressive leadership in Mexico, rejecting the outdated, imperialist attitudes represented by commentators like Rosenblum.
Demand strict controls on the flow of US weapons into Mexico, holding arms manufacturers accountable for their role in fueling violence.
Push for climate action on both sides of the border, recognizing that environmental justice is intrinsically linked to social and economic justice.
Ensure that urban development in cities like Tucson benefits all residents, not just the wealthy elite.
Challenge mainstream media narratives that perpetuate harmful stereotypes about Mexico and Latinx communities.
In the spirit of our ancestors who recognized no borders in this desert we call home, let us move forward together, committed to justice, sustainability, and dignity for all our communities. La lucha sigue – the struggle continues.
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👯 People Mentioned
Claudia Sheinbaum - New president of Mexico, the first woman and Jewish president
Quote: (Described as) "a clone of President López Obrador"
Andrés Manuel López Obrador - Former president of Mexico
Quote: "López Obrador was enormously popular. He appealed to these masses."
Keith Rosenblum - Border observer and analyst
Quote: "I'm completely unimpressed by the woman herself and her ability to articulate a message."
Fletcher McCusker - Chair of Rio Nuevo District Downtown Tucson's Revitalization Board
Quote: "We've doubled the tax base."
Bill Buckmaster - Host of the radio show
Ted Maxwell - Praised for efforts in compromising on the Regional Transportation Authority program
Mayor Romero - Mentioned in the context of compromising on the Regional Transportation Authority program
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<< U.S. weapons flowing into Mexico are escalating cartel violence to alarming levels >>
This is true not only in Mexico but in other countries south of the border. It is very easy for glib commentators like Keith Rosenblum (and others) to criticize Mexico and the capabilities of its police, but perhaps he/they should instead reflect on this harsh reality: that some of the drug gangs are better armed than the police! [They might also address long-standing speculation that it is not only drug czars from this country but purportedly the CIA itself that are involved with some of the trafficking.