Guadalajara leaders clash over city management in debate

During the State of the City debate in Guadalajara, Mayor Ana Guarinos and Socialist candidate Alberto Rojo presented opposing views on the city's current management and progress.

Mayor Guarinos defended her administration, stating that Guadalajara is a more open and dynamic city than in 2023. She reported that the City Council has fulfilled or is executing 96% of its initial commitments. Key achievements highlighted included housing developments, with 599 public housing units in progress and approximately 1,600 housing licenses granted over three years. She emphasized that 36.2% of new constructions are protected housing.

In contrast, Alberto Rojo criticized the administration, describing the city as being in a state of discontent. He accused the Mayor of managing an “imaginary Guadalajara” while real residents face high taxes and declining service quality. Rojo cited several issues causing public dissatisfaction, including property tax (IBI) increases, urban planning concerns, and municipal worker disputes, arguing that citizens are not living better than they were three years ago.