Morena opens case against Puebla deputies for anti‑elderly remarks

Puebla state deputies Nayeli Salvatori and Graciela Palomares, members of the ruling Morena party, were recorded in a podcast making disparaging comments about older men, saying they “smell like a trunk” and “are rotting.” The remarks sparked a wave of criticism on social media and accusations of age‑based discrimination.

Morena’s national president Ariadna Montiel demanded that the party’s internal Commission for Honesty and Justice (CNHJ) open a disciplinary investigation. She called for the possible suspension of the deputies’ party rights and indicated that expulsion could be considered if the conduct is deemed incompatible with Morena’s principles. Both legislators issued public apologies, and the governor of Puebla, Alejandro Armenta, expressed support for the party’s stance while emphasizing respect for older adults.

The internal process is ongoing, with the CNHJ tasked with determining any sanctions. Opposition parties, including Movimiento Ciudadano, have urged voters to consider the controversy when assessing the deputies in the upcoming 2027 elections.