Sheinbaum Takes on Trump and Fentanyl! The 5 Political Bombshells from the January 7 Morning Press Conference

During the morning press conference on January 7, 2025, President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed topics of national and international importance, outlining her administration’s priorities in security, public health, and foreign relations. Here are the five most significant points discussed during the session: 

1. Launch of the Campaign "Stay Away from Drugs, Fentanyl Kills You”

The president unveiled a national campaign focused on preventing fentanyl use, a highly dangerous synthetic drug. The strategy is built on two pillars: prevention, led by the Ministry of Public Education (SEP) with support from the Ministry of Culture, and care, managed by the health sector. The initiative aims to warn young people about the dangers of fentanyl use through scientific information and educational activities.

2. SEP’s Role in the Anti-Drug Strategy

Education Secretary Mario Delgado detailed SEP’s involvement in the anti-drug campaign, emphasizing the promotion of healthy lifestyles among students. The initiative includes guidance on healthy eating, physical exercise, and addiction prevention, aiming to provide holistic education for young people and steer them away from risky behaviors.

3. Expansion of the "Línea de la Vida" Crisis Hotline

José Antonio Peña Merino, head of the Digital Transformation Agency, announced that following the launch of the anti-drug campaign, the "Línea de la Vida" (Life Line) is expected to receive between 6,000 and 10,000 calls daily. This service provides emotional support, information, and crisis intervention related to substance abuse. To meet the demand, 150 specialists will be available 24/7, reinforcing the government’s commitment to mental health and public well-being.

4. T-MEC Situation After Justin Trudeau’s Resignation

Following the recent resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the potential rise of conservative leader Pierre Poilievre—who has suggested excluding Mexico from the USMCA (T-MEC)—President Sheinbaum dismissed concerns that the trade agreement is at risk. She affirmed that trilateral relations remain strong and that her administration will continue working to strengthen economic and political ties with both neighboring countries.

5. Invitation to Donald Trump’s Inauguration

Regarding Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration as U.S. president on January 20, Sheinbaum reported that while she has not received a personal invitation to attend the ceremony, Mexico’s embassy in the United States has been invited. However, it has not yet been decided whether a representative from the Mexican government will attend. The president reiterated her willingness to maintain a constructive diplomatic relationship with the new U.S. administration for the benefit of both countries.

These topics highlight Sheinbaum’s focus on public health, education, and international relations—critical areas for Mexico’s development and its interaction with the United States.

For those interested in further details from the press conference, the full broadcast is available here:

Written by: Editorial