PRI mobilizes new Defenders network across State of Mexico

The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) formalized a statewide network of "Defensores del Estado de México" during a mass ceremony in Toluca. Hundreds of party militants and sympathizers took an oath to patrol all 125 municipalities, aiming to strengthen PRI's territorial presence, counter the governing Morena party, and address local security and economic concerns such as extortion and drug shortages.

The event was led by state committee president Cristina Ruiz Sandoval and attended by national party secretary Jorge Meade Ocaranza, ex‑governors Arturo Montiel Rojas and César Camacho Quiroz, and federal deputy Ivonne Ruiz, who also pledged to serve as a defender for Coacalco. The PRI opened registration for the defender role from 30 June to 9 July, inviting party militants, sympathizers and unaffiliated citizens. Selected defenders will receive training, sign a legal commitment, and undertake activities including community assemblies, legal assistance, and support for victims of extortion.

The initiative is presented as a grassroots response to perceived crises in security, employment, and public services in the State of Mexico, positioning the PRI as a viable alternative ahead of upcoming electoral contests.