Sonora political landscape shifts amid rising opposition

The political landscape in Sonora is undergoing a significant shift, challenging the dominance of the Morena party. Recent trends suggest a decline in national approval for President Claudia Sheinbaum and a decrease in Morena’s voting intentions, which could impact the party's prospects for the 2027 governorship.

Key figures are shaping this new environment. Senator Luis Donaldo Colosio Riojas of Movimiento Ciudadano has emerged as a prominent opposition voice following a verbal confrontation with Sonora Governor Alfonso Durazo Montaño. While Durazo responded sharply to criticisms of the ‘Fourth Transformation’, Senator Manlio Fabio Beltrones Rivera has maintained a more prudent stance toward Colosio Riojas.

Additionally, Antonio ‘Toño’ Astiazarán is expanding his political influence beyond Hermosillo, potentially strengthening an opposition coalition composed of PAN, PRI, PS, and MACISO. This development suggests a possible ‘three-way election’ scenario in the state, forcing Morena to navigate both defending the governorship and attempting to regain control of the capital.