Press and Politics in Mexico: AMLO’s Problematic Relationship with the New Media

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–Researched and Written by Arielle D. Steimer-Barragán—

The contentious relationship between the press and Mexican president Andrés Manuel López Obrador, also known as AMLO, has proved to be problematic as the president continues to question the legitimacy of the press. The function of the press is also put into question when López Obrador’s posture on freedom of expression in Mexico is examined. AMLO’s remarks on a critical press reveal the issue of what a critical press can print in the self-proclaimed, “Cuarta Transformación” or “Fourth Transformation.” The divisive nature of characterizing the press as “la prensa fifi” or “posh press” has only increased the divide and violence against journalists. The disparaging remarks against journalists and media outlets places some journalists’ lives at stake at a time when Mexico continues to be one of the most dangerous countries to practice journalism.

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