Between Commitment and Transformation: The Legacy of Arturo Isrrael Ascencio in Poncitlán

Arturo Isrrael Ascencio Gómez is a man of commitment and service. A teacher and graduate of the Escuela Normal Rural Miguel Hidalgo de Atequiza, he has dedicated 22 years of his life to teaching. His vocation for the well-being of the community led him to venture into politics, and he currently serves as the municipal president of Poncitlán, a municipality with unmatched architectural, cultural, and human richness. Reelected for a second term, his administration focuses on improving the quality of life for residents through key projects in health, education, and infrastructure. In this interview, he shares his vision, challenges, and aspirations for the municipality and beyond.

InterAlcaldes: Mayor, who is Arturo Isrrael Ascencio Gómez?

Arturo Isrrael Ascencio Gómez: I am a trained teacher, a graduate of the Escuela Normal Rural Miguel Hidalgo de Atequiza, with 22 years of experience in the field of education. I currently have the honor of being the municipal president of Poncitlán, a place with architectural and cultural wealth, and above all, with hardworking people committed to their community.

InterAlcaldes: This is your second term in office. What do you consider was the key to achieving reelection?

AIAG: That’s right; I was reelected thanks to the trust people placed in the work we have done. Our government has always been close to the citizens, committed to fulfilling projects that improve the quality of life for the residents.

InterAlcaldes: How many votes did you win the reelection with?

AIAG: We received 7,120 votes, with a margin of 960 over the coalition formed by PRI, PAN, and PRD. MORENA came in third place.

InterAlcaldes: What are the three main challenges of your new administration?

AIAG: Our first challenge is to ensure dignified health care for our population by guaranteeing access to quality services that enable a peaceful and healthy life.

The second challenge is to continue supporting education, as we firmly believe that a solid education provides better opportunities for development and access to higher incomes.

The third challenge is to improve public infrastructure, including roads, pathways, and streets in the localities, to foster development and improve citizens’ mobility.

InterAlcaldes: During your campaign, what were your main proposals?

AIAG: We focused on three fundamental pillars: improving public health, strengthening basic services such as potable water, drainage, sewage, and public lighting, and rehabilitating schools and public spaces, such as sports facilities, to promote family integration and steer young people away from vices.

We also highlighted the program for organic food baskets in schools, which include milk, eggs, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and organic yogurt. In addition, we distributed 400 food baskets every eight days to improve child nutrition.

InterAlcaldes: Do you believe these years will be enough to fulfill your campaign promises?

AIAG: There is always more to do. My task is to forge alliances with municipal governments, the private sector, and the State Government to work as a team. Our motto is "Together we make a difference," and we have demonstrated this through improvements in infrastructure and social projects that positively impact Poncitlán.

InterAlcaldes: Speaking of national issues, what is your opinion on the creation of "State 33"?

AIAG: It is an excellent initiative, as it strengthens the bond between Mexicans living abroad and their country. Allowing them to participate in political decisions is fundamental since their remittances significantly contribute to the economy of their families and communities in Mexico.

InterAlcaldes: And what about the role of the migrant deputy?

AIAG: It is a necessary idea, as these representatives will be able to address the needs of migrants and facilitate strategies to support them from their places of origin.

InterAlcaldes: Would you support migrants having a place on the plurinominal lists, as established by the Constitution of Mexico City?

AIAG: It is a valid proposal. All parties must ensure representation for migrants, as their needs and rights must also be taken into account.

InterAlcaldes: And what about the creation of the sixth electoral district to reform the Constitution in Jalisco?

AIAG: I am open to this initiative. Jalisco’s citizens living abroad remain part of our state and should have mechanisms that allow them to participate in political decisions.

InterAlcaldes: Would you support allowing migrants to vote for mayors?

AIAG: I find that fair. Many migrants have relatives in their home municipalities, and their opinions should be taken into account.

InterAlcaldes: Will the municipality of Poncitlán participate in the campaign "The Best Place to Live is Your Homeland"?

AIAG: Of course. We will support small businesses and productive sectors such as the furniture industry and chayote agriculture to generate jobs and prevent migration.

InterAlcaldes: Finally, would you like to be the governor of Jalisco?

AIAG: It would be an honor. If we have achieved improvements in Poncitlán, we could extend those advances to the state level, promoting cultural values and comprehensive development. Being governor would be a challenge that I would take on with passion and commitment.

Written by: Marco Tardelli