Internal divisions will hinder Mexico’s PAN

Subject

PAN challenges.

Significance

Puebla’s new Governor Martha Erika Alonso of the National Action Party (PAN) was killed in a helicopter crash on December 24, along with her husband, former Puebla Governor and leading PAN Senator Rafael Moreno Valle. The tragedy deals a blow on two fronts to a party already struggling with internal divisions and substantially reduced influence. It follows the controversial election of Marko Cortes to the party presidency on November 11 -- a move that prompted PAN stalwart and former Mexican President Felipe Calderon (2006-12) to leave the party.

Impacts

• Local and gubernatorial elections in 2019 will present major challenges for the PAN’s new leadership.
• The PAN’s lack of younger members -- only 2.9% are under 26 -- will hinder its long-term prospects.
• Should Calderon succeed in creating a new party, it could offset Morena’s dominance, but this will take time.