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‘A betrayal:’ California to share data on immigrant drivers nationally

Funcionarios planean compartir datos del DMV, alarmando defensores de inmigrantes indocumentados en toda California. Officials plan to share DMV data, alarming advocates for undocumented immigrants across California. (Photo online.)

Advocates say 1 million unauthorized immigrants with California driver’s licenses are at risk under a state plan to share license information to a national database

by Khari Johnson and Wendy Fry

CalMatters

California is preparing to share with an outside organization detailed information about driver’s license holders, including immigrants who do not have legal authorization to live in the U.S.

That breaks a promise the state made a decade ago when it began issuing licenses to unauthorized immigrants, advocates say, and it means more than 1 million people may face higher risk of deportation.

But if state officials don’t turn over the data, the Department of Homeland Security may refuse to accept California licenses and IDs at airports, the advocates believe, following a briefing with the California Department of Motor Vehicles and the office of Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this month. State authorities confirmed they plan to share the data to comply with the Real ID Act of 2005, which set requirements for accepting state identification in federal facilities like airports.

Representatives from four advocacy groups who participated in the briefing told CalMatters the shared information will show whether a person has a Social Security number, meaning it could be used to identify people in the country without authorization.

The state plans to provide the information to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, a nonprofit organization whose governing board is made up of DMV officials from across the country.

The information given to the association will go into the group’s State-to-State Verification system and its platform, known as SPEXS, which allows DMVs and contractors that work with them to verify if someone has more than one license issued in their name. Sharing that data allows agencies that issue driver’s licenses to verify that a person doesn’t have duplicate licenses in multiple states.

In the future, an ID database like the one the association maintains could be used to support mobile licenses people can use on their iPhones or online age verification for access to mature content or chatbots.

But advocates fear that federal immigration officials will try to gain bulk access to the data and use the fact that a person doesn’t have a Social Security number as a signal that they’re deportable.

The state received assurances from the association that safeguards will be added to prevent bulk searches for unauthorized immigrant license holders in the database and to prevent access by the Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to people who joined the briefing with the DMV and governor’s office. But they remain skeptical.

“Once this data is uploaded to AAMVA, it’s out of California’s control, no matter what California wants, no matter what protests we may make,” said Ed Hasbrouck with San Francisco civil liberties group The Identity Project, who was on the briefing call.

To carry out the plan to share data with the association the California Legislature will need to approve $55 million to cover the DMV’s costs. It may also need to amend existing law, which states that a Social Security number obtained by the DMV cannot be shared for any other purpose than to address unpaid taxes, parking tickets, or child support.

A spokesperson for the governor’s office declined to confirm details of the call or respond to specific concerns from advocates.

“California continues to lead in supporting immigrant families and protecting personal data from federal overreach,” the spokesperson, Diana Crofts-Pelayo, wrote in an email. “The state has taken the same approach to protect Californians’ data during the Real ID implementation, while maintaining Real ID compliance for the benefit of all Californians.”

Ian Grossman, the chief executive of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, told CalMatters that participation in the verification system is voluntary and that only authorized state employees or contractors have access to the system, that bulk searches of the system are not currently allowed, and all searches must contain specific information about an individual like their name and date of birth.

Social security number ‘99999’

For more than a decade, California and 18 other states invited undocumented people to obtain driver’s licenses in order to support public safety and the economy. Economists say that such laws improve economic activity, drive billions of dollars in taxes into state coffers, and benefit public safety because people who lack federal authorization to be in the country can feel more comfortable reporting criminal activity.

More than 1 million people have obtained driver’s licenses in California under Assembly Bill 60, a law passed in 2013. The law prohibits the state from using information obtained in the licensure process to consider an individual’s citizenship.

But the multistate verification system can reveal whether a person is an undocumented immigrant. According to an association manual obtained by CalMatters, the database will include the last five digits of a person’s Social Security number, and if that person has no Social Security number, the association allows states to use the placeholder “99999.”

Advocates fear that federal immigration officials could gain access to information in the database, including on undocumented Californians, by asking local officials to make requests on their behalf.

That sort of end run would not be without precedent.

CalMatters reported on instances last year and this year where local law enforcement agencies broke state law and shared information gathered by automated license plate readers with ICE or Border Patrol agents.

The DMV and the governor’s office say the association will notify California of requests from any entity other than a participating state, including attempts to subpoena the database for information about California license holders, providing them with the opportunity to challenge subpoenas or intervene in other requests. But if a subpoena is accompanied by a gag order the association could not deliver any such notification. An agreement between the association and the California DMV obtained by CalMatters states that the association will inform California “if legally permitted” if it receives a subpoena “to release, disclose, discuss, or obtain access to S2S information.”

Hasbrouck believes the DMV and governor’s office “must have known” the reassurances they got from the association were “hollow given the possibility of gag orders.”

He also said that, as a private entity, the association has less protection from court orders or subpoenas than a government agency. Its data sharing is also more easily hidden, since the association is not subject to Freedom of Information Act requests or open meeting laws.

Advocates see ‘a direct betrayal’

Advocates who spoke with CalMatters said sharing the driver’s license information with the association sells out immigrant license holders. The law that created the program prohibits the state from using information the program gathers to determine citizenship.

“It’s unclear how extreme the danger people are being put into by this decision but there ’s no doubt we told people with AB 60 licenses this would never happen, but it’s happening, and that’s a direct betrayal,” said Tracy Rosenberg, head of advocacy at Oakland Privacy, who was on the call.

Linda Nguy, an associate director at the Western Center on Law and Poverty, compared the disclosure to a move last summer by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy to share data about millions of non-citizens with federal immigration agencies. That was a violation of federal law, department officials concluded, according to a memo obtained by  the Associated Press.

Pedro Rios, director of the U.S.-Mexico Border Program at the American Friends Service Committee, was not on the call, but echoed Rosenberg and Nguy, calling the data sharing plan “a betrayal of California’s commitment to protect and defend all its residents, especially those who have an AB 60 driver’s license.”

Becca Cramer, who works with privacy and civil liberties groups, questioned why the governor’s office and DMV are in a rush to comply with the Real ID Act two decades after it passed at a time of increased pressure from the Trump administration.

“It just seems like we’re missing the bigger picture of this moment in time,” she said

The plan to share license information with the database depends on the state budget process because the DMV is requesting $55 million to move the data over to the association’s systems.

At a state Senate budget hearing last month to approve the funding, lawmakers questioned why the state should follow a timeline set by a private organization and share part of Californians’ Social Security numbers. They also asked the DMV to explore the reasoning behind a lawsuit filed by Oklahoma lawmakers in January to block data sharing with the association, in which they argued that sharing personal data collected for driver’s licenses violates state law there.

DMV director Steve Gordon told them that California unsuccessfully tried to convince the motor vehicle association to consider a unique identifier other than a social security number and “anybody who has a social security number that’s sharing information of course would have a concern” but told lawmakers “we need to go. We need to go now.”

DMV spokesperson Jaime Garza said that Californians can submit a request to surrender or cancel a driver’s license but that driving without a license is illegal.

Nick Miller, a spokesperson for Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, told CalMatters lawmakers continue to work on the policy issue.

“Protecting immigrant communities from the Trump administration’s relentless attacks — and ensuring Californians are empowered and defended — continues to be a top priority for the Speaker,” he said in an email.

Rosenberg with Oakland Privacy suggested that the state might be better off opting out of the Real ID system than sharing information about its license holders, noting that more than 60 percent of Californians already have passports.

“I just wonder what would happen if the state asked Californians to get a passport in order to fly for a couple of years in order to protect 1 million Californians with AB 60 licenses. Maybe we should give people that opportunity.”

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Bay Area Events – celebrating Mothers’ Day

Calito Franco

by the El Reportero staff

Mother’s Day Mariachi Brunch at Puerto Alegre (Live Mariachi)

A popular Mission District restaurant hosts a special Mother’s Day brunch with live mariachi performers, offering classic Mexican dishes alongside traditional music in a lively and festive setting ideal for families celebrating together. Sunday, May 10, late morning–early afternoon, Puerto Alegre, 546 Valencia St., San Francisco, CA 94110

Mother’s Day Latin Boat Party (DJs – Latin & Dance Music)

Celebrate Mother’s Day on the water with a festive boat party featuring live DJs spinning Latin hits, reggaeton, cumbia and dance music. The event combines music, dancing and panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, offering a unique experience for families and adults alike. Sunday, May 10, afternoon–evening (check boarding time). Departure from San Francisco waterfront (Pier area). Info/Tickets: Eventbrite (search “Mother’s Day Boat Party San Francisco”) or contact organizer at info@sfboatparties.com.

Community Cultural Event in San Mateo (Local Artists)

A cultural gathering showcasing local Latino artists, musicians, and performers, highlighting community talent and creating a space for cultural expression on the Peninsula. Wednesday, May 13, 5 p.m. Downtown San Mateo, San Mateo, CA

Live Latin Jazz at The Chapel (Bay Area Musicians)

The Chapel presents an evening of Latin jazz featuring local ensembles that fuse Afro-Caribbean rhythms with modern improvisation in an intimate setting. Friday, May 15, 8 p.m., The Chapel, 777 Valencia St., San Francisco.

Tony Vega in live concert (Salsa Legend)

Puerto Rican salsa star Tony Vega performs live, bringing classic hits and dance favorites to Bay Area audiences in a high-energy concert. Saturday, May 16, 9 p.m., Roccapulco, 3140 Mission St., San Francisco.

Salsa Wednesdays at Blondie’s Bar (Calito Franco & Live Bands)

A popular weekly salsa night continues through Mother’s Day week, featuring Calito Franco y Su Tumbao Añejo and rotating bands such as Guajirón and Son Sabroso. The event blends live music with social dancing in the Mission District. Wednesday, May 20 and 27, 8:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m., Blondie’s Bar, 540 Valencia St., San Francisco.

Carnaval San Francisco Grand Parade (Live Music, Dance & Comparsas)

The 48th annual Carnaval San Francisco Grand Parade brings together live music groups, dance troupes and cultural performers, including comparsas such as Karibbean Vibrationz, celebrating Latin American and Caribbean traditions. The parade features vibrant costumes, drumming, dance and community participation, attracting thousands of spectators each year.

Sunday, May 24 – Parade route from 24th & Bryant St. to Mission St., continuing north to 15th St. Grandstand: 2665 Mission St., San Francisco.

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Refinancing readiness and navigating the process in today’s market

Sponsored by JPMorganChase

Depending on where you are in your homeownership journey, refinancing your mortgage can be an effective strategy to help you meet your financial goals. Refinancing may help you save money over time or add money back to your monthly budget if you score a lower interest rate. And depending on the type of refinance you choose, you could also borrow against your home’s equity to pay down debt or make a major purchase.

Understanding when and why a refinance might make sense is the first step toward getting the most from this financial tool. There are also different types of refinances to consider, and one might work better for your goals than another.

What is refinancing?

Refinancing replaces your current mortgage with a new one—usually with a new rate and/or terms. It can often also come with a new set of closing costs. It may also come with a new lender.

So when does it make sense to refinance? You might want to consider a refinance if you want to:

  • Change the loan length or lower your monthly payments
  • Secure a better or lower interest rate to save on monthly payments
  • Switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate one.
  • Change the loan type to remove mortgage insurance costs
  • Access your home equity to fund home improvements, buying another property, or consolidate debt.

How does refinancing work?
Much like your original mortgage, the refinancing process involves a thorough review of your current financial status to determine if you qualify.

Here’s an example of what a lender may review:

  • Credit score and history: Score requirements vary by lender and loan type; 620 is a general minimum for conventional mortgages. Lenders want to see responsible credit use, such as a positive payment history on your debt.
  • Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio: This metric shows how much debt you have in relation to your income. To calculate your DTI, add up your monthly debt payments and divide by your gross monthly income. Then multiply by 100 to get a percentage. A low DTI lets lenders know you’ll likely be able to manage your monthly payments with minimal issues.
  • Property value and equity: Many homeowners have built equity over time, and the real estate market can cause property values to appreciate as well. When refinancing, your current loan balance and market value of the property will help the lender calculate a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. Refinancing qualifications usually prefer lower LTVs.

What are my refinancing options and how do I choose the right one?

Let’s break down a few commonly offered types of refinancing:

  • Rate-and-term refinance: This option allows you to replace your current loan with a new one with a different interest rate, different term or both. The primary aim is to secure terms that better suit your current financial situation, while the principal balance remains the same.
  • Cash-out refinance: A cash-out refinance allows you to replace your existing mortgage with a new loan for more than you currently owe, leveraging equity you’ve built up in your home. This type of mortgage refinance might be more suited for those who need funds for significant expenses, such as home renovations or debt consolidation.
  • No closing cost refinance: A no closing cost refinance allows borrowers to refinance without paying the upfront fees usually required. The lender may charge a slightly higher interest rate or fold the closing costs into the total loan amount.

Understanding your current financial goals and needs can help you decide which option works best.

The bottom line

Refinancing can be a smart financial move for many people. You may be able to save money in the long term, and you also have options to take cash out if that’s what would support your goals. A qualified mortgage professional or home lending advisor can help clarify whether a mortgage refinance makes sense for you and ensure you’re on the right path to achieving your financial goals.

For more information, visit chase.com/afford.

For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described in this article or provided via links may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any business. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates are not responsible for, and do not provide or endorse third party products, services, or other content.

Deposit products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender.

 © 2026 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

 

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6 Powerful spices to boost iron naturally and defy mainstream deficiency narratives

The Truth about iron: Why this essential mineral is a foundation of true health

by Coco Somers

Iron is not just a lab value; it is essential for oxygen transport, energy production and cognitive function. It supports hemoglobin and myoglobin, helping deliver oxygen throughout the body. However, modern approaches often reduce iron to supplements rather than addressing absorption and overall health.

A broader perspective emphasizes whole foods and natural sources that provide iron alongside supportive compounds like vitamin C and anti-inflammatory nutrients. Instead of focusing solely on supplementation, improving digestion, gut health and nutrient balance is key to maintaining healthy iron levels.

Why conventional iron approaches can fall short

Standard iron supplementation may not work effectively for everyone. Some forms are poorly absorbed and can cause digestive discomfort or imbalance with other minerals. Iron metabolism is complex and influenced by nutrients such as copper and magnesium, meaning a one-size-fits-all solution is often insufficient.

A more complete strategy focuses on improving absorption and supporting the body’s natural processes through diet and lifestyle rather than relying only on isolated supplements.

The 6 iron-rich spice powerhouses: Nature’s forgotten medicine

Spices can provide small but meaningful amounts of iron while also supporting digestion, reducing inflammation and improving metabolic function. Quality matters—choosing clean, minimally processed spices helps preserve their nutritional value.

Cumin and turmeric: The anti-inflammatory iron duo

Cumin provides about 3.2 mg of iron per tablespoon and supports digestion, which is essential for nutrient absorption. Turmeric offers about 5.17 mg per tablespoon and contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Using turmeric in whole form with vitamin C-rich foods may help improve iron uptake.

Ginger and fenugreek: Metabolic support and cleansing

Ginger contains about 1.03 mg of iron per tablespoon and supports digestion and nausea relief. Fenugreek provides around 3.72 mg per tablespoon and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Together, they support metabolic balance and help the body better utilize nutrients.

Cinnamon and anise seed: Sweet defense against processed foods

Cinnamon offers about 1.3 mg of iron per two tablespoons and may support cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Anise seed provides about 2.48 mg per tablespoon and can be used as a natural sweetener alternative. Both contribute iron while enhancing flavor and reducing reliance on processed sugars.

Maximizing your iron: A holistic strategy

To improve iron levels effectively, combine spices with iron-rich whole foods such as meats, fish, lentils and beans. Pair plant-based iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods like citrus or peppers to enhance absorption.

Equally important is reducing intake of highly processed foods that may impair nutrient absorption and gut health. Supporting digestion and overall nutrition helps ensure the body can use the iron consumed.

Reclaim your health with nature’s iron arsenal

The kitchen can play a key role in maintaining health. Incorporating spices like cumin, turmeric, ginger, fenugreek, cinnamon and anise seed into a balanced diet supports iron intake while addressing broader factors such as digestion and inflammation. A whole-food, nutrient-focused approach offers a practical path to maintaining healthy iron levels.

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A mission at risk — why San Francisco must honor the spirit of Proposition J

San Francisco voters approved PROP. J in 1994 to protect four historic communities — Asian, Latino, African American and LGBTQ+ — allocating 10% of the city’s official advertising to their community newspapers to ensure their survival. -- Los votantes de San Francisco aprobaron la PROP. J en 1994 para proteger a cuatro comunidades históricas — asiática, latina, afroamericana y LGBTQ+ — asignando el 10% de la publicidad oficial a sus periódicos comunitarios para asegurar su supervivencia.
Marvin Ramírez, editor

by Marvin Ramírez

As El Reportero marks its 36th anniversary, it is impossible not to reflect on a defining moment in its history — and in the history of community journalism in San Francisco.

In 1994, what became known as San Francisco Proposition J was more than legislation. It was a mission. City leaders recognized that ethnic and community newspapers were not simply businesses; they were essential bridges between government and underserved communities. Proposition J mandated that a portion of the City’s official advertising budget be allocated to publications serving African American, Latino, Asian, and LGBTQ communities.

At the time, the Bay Area was home to a vibrant ecosystem of community newspapers. Many were weeklies, like El Reportero, printed locally in San Francisco, supported by multiple commercial printers and a steady pipeline of young journalists, interns, and contributors. Proposition J did not just provide advertising revenue; it provided stability, legitimacy, and growth. It allowed small publications to hire staff, expand coverage, and deepen their role as trusted voices within their communities.

El Reportero itself grew into a newsroom of more than a dozen contributors, many of them volunteers driven by a passion for storytelling and public service. Students, aspiring journalists, and seasoned writers alike found a platform in community media that mainstream outlets often overlooked.

Then came disruption.

The aftermath of the September 11 attacks brought economic shockwaves that devastated small businesses — the very advertisers who sustained local newspapers. Many closed their doors. Advertising declined sharply. Community publications struggled to survive.

Yet El Reportero endured.

Over the decades, it weathered economic downturns, the rise of the internet, and the transformation of the media landscape. Today, it stands as one of the last bilingual weekly newspapers serving the Latino community in the Bay Area — a testament to resilience, commitment, and the enduring need for culturally relevant journalism.

But now, the very mission that once sustained community media is at risk of being undermined — not by economic collapse, but by bureaucracy.

In the latest City contracting cycle, El Reportero was deemed “non-responsive” due to a submission arriving two minutes past the deadline — despite documented efforts to comply and a long-standing history of service. This technicality, while procedurally defensible, raises a fundamental question: is the City honoring the spirit of Proposition J, or merely its most rigid interpretation?

Proposition J was never intended to exclude community newspapers over minor procedural issues. Its purpose was to ensure inclusion — to guarantee that vital public information reaches communities that might otherwise be left out of civic discourse.

To deny participation based on a two-minute delay is to lose sight of that purpose.

The consequences extend beyond a single publication. The decline of community newspapers has already narrowed the channels through which local governments communicate with diverse populations. When these outlets disappear, so too does access — to public notices, health information, legal changes, and civic opportunities.

Contrary to common assumptions, print still matters. Official notices, including legal announcements, are required to be published in newspapers. A physical paper placed in a neighborhood café, grocery store, or community center reaches readers who may not seek out information online. It creates visibility, permanence, and trust.

Digital media has expanded access, but it has not replaced the role of trusted community publications.

If Proposition J is to remain meaningful, it must evolve without abandoning its core mission. The City should examine whether outdated requirements — such as rigid printing rules or overly complex application processes — are unintentionally excluding the very outlets the law was designed to support.

A process that requires dozens of pages of documentation for modest advertising contracts is not only inefficient; it is discouraging participation. Community publishers, often operating with limited resources, should not face barriers that undermine their ability to serve the public.

Flexibility is not a weakness. It is a recognition of reality.

San Francisco has long prided itself on diversity, inclusion, and equity. Upholding those values means ensuring that policies like Proposition J function as intended — not as gatekeeping mechanisms, but as bridges.

As the City’s Budget and Finance Committee prepares to consider this matter — and then forward it to the full Board of Supervisors for final approval — the decision before it is not simply procedural. It is philosophical.

Will San Francisco reaffirm its commitment to community media, or allow a technicality to erode a decades-old promise?

The answer will determine not only the future of one newspaper, but the strength of the connection between City Hall and the communities it serves.

El Reportero has carried that connection for 36 years.

It deserves more than a closed door.

 

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When conservative Lucas Alamán hid Hernán Cortés’ bones

Hernan Cortez

Did you know that conservative politician Lucas Alamán hid the remains of Hernán Cortés so they would not be destroyed by a popular uprising during September 15, 1823?

by México Desconocido

Hernán Cortés, the conqueror of Mexico-Tenochtitlan, is a controversial figure. During his lifetime, as a hidalgo, he provoked the disdain of several of his contemporaries, including his own monarch, Emperor Charles V. One could say that he was never truly able to fully enjoy the recognition he believed he deserved for his military campaigns. After his death, his remains underwent several itinerant burials between Spain and New Spain over the course of many decades. Thus, shortly after the consummation of Mexico’s independence, conservative historian Lucas Alamán hid the remains of Hernán Cortés so they would not be destroyed by popular anger.

A Death in Dishonor

The Extremaduran Hernán Cortés was in Spain around the year 1540. In Iberian lands, he was trying to resolve the legal disputes against him, the famous residency trials, opened in 1526 by order of Emperor Charles V himself. Although all of his military enterprises had been carried out in the name of the Crown and the emperor, the scandals surrounding him were enormous. Therefore, the monarch wanted Cortés’ administration as governor of New Spain to be judicially reviewed.

The Marquis of the Valley of Oaxaca had lost the favor of the imperial court, which always considered him untrustworthy for being a hidalgo, that is, a member of the lower nobility. In 1541, during the disastrous Algiers campaign in which he participated, he was even ignored by Emperor Charles. Without prestige, dishonored and financially ruined, the conqueror of Mexico-Tenochtitlan died on December 2, 1547. His death occurred in the palace of Alonso Rodríguez, a friend of his, in Castilleja de la Cuesta, Seville. Immediately afterward, his body was placed in the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo, in the crypt of the family of the Duke of Medina Sidonia.

A Conqueror in Constant Relocation

However, during his lifetime Hernán Cortés had designated different destinations for his burial. First, he wished to be buried in the church of the Hospital de Jesús Nazareno in Mexico City; afterward, he wanted his remains to rest in the town of Coyoacán. Finally, shortly before his death, he instructed that he be buried wherever he happened to die. It appears that his final wish was to be buried in a convent in Coyoacán, but that never happened. All of this explains why his body traveled from one place to another.

Cortés’ remains were moved to a nearby altar only a few years after his burial, in 1550. However, in 1566, his family had them transferred to New Spain and deposited in what is now the Cathedral of Texcoco. Later, following the death of Pedro Cortés, the conqueror’s last descendant, in 1629 the remains were moved to the church of the Great Convent of San Francisco in Mexico City. There they rested until 1794, when they were transferred to the main altar of the church of the Hospital de Jesús Nazareno, the site that Cortés himself founded in 1524 and where he first met the huey-tlatoani Moctezuma Xocoyotzin in 1519.

Lucas Alamán Hid Hernán Cortés’ Remains

Nevertheless, the remains of the former Marquis of the Valley of Oaxaca would not find rest. In 1810, Mexico’s War of Independence began. By 1821, the struggle had finally concluded and the historical process had been completed, freeing the young nation from Spanish rule. Amid the turbulence of that era, a historian began to stand out: Lucas Alamán. Besides being a great scholar, he was also a prominent conservative politician. Born in Guanajuato in 1792, he witnessed the storming of the Alhóndiga de Granaditas in 1810, a reason why he always opposed the ideas of Miguel Hidalgo.

By 1823, Alamán was the administrator of the Mexican assets of Hernán Cortés’ heirs, who lived in Italy. At that time, the atmosphere throughout the country, particularly in Mexico City, was hostile toward the former Spanish authority and its symbols. This was reason enough for Cortés’ heirs to take the conqueror’s monument to Palermo. This sculpture served as the tomb in the church of the Hospital de Jesús.

During several disturbances that took place in the nation’s capital, it was believed that the conqueror’s bones rested in the aforementioned Italian city. However, in reality they remained in Mexico City. In fact, they never left the church of the Hospital de Jesús. Secretly, Lucas Alamán hid the remains of Hernán Cortés with the help of the chapel’s priest. He carried this out on the night of September 15, 1823, just as the Independence celebrations were turning into genuine popular uprisings. The historian hid the funerary urn beneath the platform of the main altar of that religious site.

The Zeal of a Conservative Historian

Thanks to the actions of Lucas Alamán, Hernán Cortés’ remains managed to escape popular fury. They remained hidden for 13 long years. Once tensions began to subside, the conservative historian arranged for them to be placed in a niche in the church in 1836. Because he served as minister in several republican governments, he managed to secretly protect the funerary urn. Likewise, he kept the Spanish embassy informed of the exact location where it was kept.

However, with Alamán’s death in 1853, the trail of Cortés’ remains was lost. It would not be until 1946 that they were located again, thanks to the efforts of a group of Mexican scholars.

 

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Madrid mayor’s pro-Conquest rhetoric sours her visit to Mexico for many

Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the mayor of Madrid, speaks during her 10-day visit to Mexico, where she is scheduled to meet with the four governors from the opposition National Action Party (PAN), but will have limited contact with the government of Sheinbaum. (Graciela López/Cuartoscuro) -- : Isabel Díaz Ayuso, alcaldesa de Madrid, habla durante su visita de 10 días a México, donde tiene previsto reunirse con los cuatro gobernadores del opositor Partido Acción Nacional (PAN), pero tendrá un contacto limitado con el gobierno de Sheinbaum.

by Mexico News Daily

While promoting her city as “a unique platform” for Mexican trade with Spain, visiting Madrid Mayor Isabel Díaz Ayuso has waded into controversy by defending the conquistador Hernán Cortés.

Díaz Ayuso is in Mexico on a 10-day tour that has provoked protests from Indigenous groups and political figures.

More significantly, her visit is being ignored by the Sheinbaum administration.

The ultra-conservative Díaz Ayuso and President Claudia Sheinbaum are fiercely at odds. Díaz Ayuso has referred to Sheinbaum as “a far-left dictator,” while the Mexican president said the leader of the Spanish capital is “clinging to visions of empire.”

According to the Spanish newspaper El País, Díaz Ayuso’s visit aims “to boost the conservative opposition in Mexico … [while also] consolidating the political forces that gravitate around U.S. President Donald Trump.”

The Madrid mayor’s visit occurs at a sensitive time for Sheinbaum, who is dealing with recent U.S. accusations of drug trafficking against 10 members of Sheinbaum’s party, reinforcing Díaz Ayuso’s assertions that Mexico is “a narco-state.”

Even before arriving, Díaz Ayuso had irritated many Mexicans by defending the Conquest as a civilizing process. As a result, Monday’s tribute to Cortés was forced to change venues when the Mexico City Archdiocese said it would not allow the event to take place at the Metropolitan Cathedral. The reason given was that permits were not in order, but the Archdiocese also went to great lengths to distance itself from the tribute to Cortés.

Instead, Díaz Ayuso spoke at the Frontón México (a jai-alai venue and the site where Mexico’s conservative National Action Party (PAN) was founded in 1939), praising the mestizaje that resulted after the Conquest.

“Mestizaje is a message of hope and joy,” she said. “Faced with hate speech that divides us, those of us who see life through these alliances must find ways to speak freely.”

In expressing support for the Conquest, Díaz Ayuso is reopening old wounds by highlighting the issue that caused the diplomatic rift, Spain’s refusal to apologize for the Conquest more than five centuries ago. That rift had recently thawed as the Spanish monarchy and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had recently made concessions in an effort to bolster bilateral relations.

Spain’s foreign minister, José Manuel Albares, was in Mexico at the end of April, while Sheinbaum traveled to Spain earlier in the month in a sign that the relationship was on the mend.

Díaz Ayuso’s agenda includes meetings with executives from international companies such as Cemex and Alsea, and reunions with all four PAN governors.

She will also attend the 2026 Platino Awards gala, which honors Ibero-American cinema, at Xcaret Park in Quintana Roo on May 9.

With reports from Noticias Imer, Expansión, El País and 20 minutos

 

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Judge rules Fresno violated open meetings law in secret budget talks

by the El Reportero staff

A Fresno Superior Court judge has ruled that the City of Fresno violated California’s open meetings law by conducting private budget negotiations behind closed doors, marking a significant victory for government transparency and public oversight.

The decision stems from a lawsuit filed by the First Amendment Coalition and the ACLU of Northern California following investigative reporting by Fresnoland. The reporting revealed that Fresno City Council’s budget committee had been holding closed-door meetings for years to negotiate key portions of the city’s multi-billion-dollar budget without public notice or participation.

Judge Robert Whalen found that these practices violated the Brown Act, a California law requiring that meetings of local government bodies be open and accessible to the public. The law is intended to ensure that residents can observe and participate in decisions involving public funds and policy.

According to court findings, the budget committee met privately from at least 2018 through 2023, often outside the formal budget adoption period. These meetings included discussions about how to allocate tens of millions of dollars, decisions typically expected to occur in public sessions.

During a June 2023 press conference, Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer acknowledged the nature of the process, stating that “a lot of sausage was being made in the back room,” a comment that later drew scrutiny as evidence of the lack of transparency.

City officials argued in court that the budget committee was an informal “ad hoc” group and therefore exempt from the Brown Act’s open meeting requirements. However, the judge rejected that claim, concluding that the committee functioned as an ongoing body with consistent membership and influence over budget decisions, making it subject to the law.

Legal advocates say the ruling reinforces the principle that public business must be conducted openly. David Loy, legal director of the First Amendment Coalition, said the decision affirms residents’ right to understand how taxpayer money is allocated and debated.

Transparency groups also noted that the ruling could have broader implications across California, where similar informal committees are sometimes used to shape policy decisions outside public view.

The court’s decision sends a clear message: even in complex budget negotiations, local governments must comply with open meeting laws and ensure the public has a seat at the table.

 

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Opposition demands Rocha’s impeachment as US lawmakers escalate pressure on Mexico

Jorge Álvarez Máynez of the Citizens Movement Party has requested impeachment proceedings against U.S.-indicted Sinaloa Gov. Rubén Rocha. (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro.com-- Jorge Álvarez Máynez, del Partido Movimiento Ciudadano, ha solicitado un proceso de juicio político contra el gobernador de Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha, acusado por Estados Unidos. (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro.com

by MND staff

The U.S. House of Representatives’ Foreign Affairs Committee warned that the U.S. Justice Department’s formal indictment of Mexican officials, including Sinaloa Governor Rubén Rocha, “is only the beginning.”

In a statement published on X, the Committee said that “if you’re complicit in trafficking drugs into the United States, we will hold you accountable,” adding that “the days of impunity for narcoterrorists are over.”

The Committee referenced a Wall Street Journal article about the indictments issued on Wednesday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of New York, which described the action as “sparking a diplomatic dispute with [Mexico’s] federal government amid rising pressure to fight powerful cartels.”

While President Claudia Sheinbaum has declared that she won’t protect anyone who has committed a crime, she insisted that until U.S. prosecutors present “irrefutable evidence,” the accusation must be viewed as politically motivated.

U.S. authorities are requesting the extradition of Rocha — a member of Sheinbaum’s ruling Morena party — creating a significant diplomatic challenge.

The committee’s stance suggests it views the issue as an international crisis, with potential to strain bilateral relations if the extradition is not handled quickly.

The Mexico-United States relationship is historically complex, and is currently experiencing a period of tension marked by security interests, political pressure and electoral calculations, as well as critical trade talks.

International security expert Abraham Serrano told the newspaper El Universal that, from Washington’s perspective, it’s not enough to simply combat the cartels; the goal is to dismantle the political “protective shield” that enables their operation.

On the other hand, Serrano said, Mexico insists that any action must be based on solid evidence and follow domestic legal procedures, especially when it involves active officials.

The content of the indictments

U.S. prosecutors accuse Rocha and nine other Sinaloa-based politicians and former government officials of ties to organized crime, specifically alleging their participation in narcotics distribution into the U.S., protection of the “Los Chapitos” faction of the Sinaloa Cartel and weapons offenses.

The document alleges that the accused “abused their positions” to support the cartel in its activities in exchange for bribes and, in Rocha’s case, to guarantee his election through direct (and sometimes violent) intervention in the 2021 election process.

Rocha has vehemently denied the accusations and insists he will not seek a leave of absence.

While saying he has not had direct contact with Sheinbaum since the news broke, he acknowledged her public statements, saying that he understands she is seeking “to avoid stigmatizing the nation while defending national sovereignty amid a complex political and media environment.”

The opposition’s reaction

The opposition, however, is calling for Rocha to be removed from office and stripped of his immunity.

The Citizens Movement Party (MC) on Thursday submitted a formal request to Congress asking that it authorize impeachment proceedings.

“The least that Sinaloa officials formally accused by U.S. authorities can do is face this process without immunity,” said Jorge Álvarez Maynez, MC’s national leader.

The indictment also names Senator Enrique Inzunza and the mayor of Culiacán, the Sinaloa state capital, Juan de Dios Gámez. Both are members of Morena and both are mentioned in the MC impeachment request.

Mexico’s Congress is in recess and will not resume sessions until Sept. 1. Instead, the Permanent Congressional Commission will have to determine the admissibility of the impeachment request.

Morena holds a comfortable majority in the Permanent Commission and party members have voiced support for Rocha.

However, unlike in 2024 (after drug lord Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada publicly accused Rocha of nefarious dealings) when Morena lawmakers and governors took out full-page newspaper ads to proclaim their solidarity with the beleaguered governor, no such actions have been taken this week.

The stern warning issued by the U.S. Foreign Affairs Committee no doubt stirred concerns for other Morena politicians, at least 50 of whom have seen their U.S. visas revoked.

Rocha is also expected to skip the Morena national convention this weekend so as to avoid potential political costs for the ruling party and the government.

With reports from La Jornada, El Universal and El Financiero

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Marijuana reclassification: Who really benefits?

by the El Reportero staff

The Trump administration’s recent decision to partially reclassify marijuana under federal law is being celebrated by cannabis investors, medical marijuana operators and Wall Street analysts as a historic victory. But beyond the excitement in the stock market and the lobbying efforts of the cannabis industry, many Americans are asking a more fundamental question: Who truly benefits from this policy shift?

According to the Justice Department, the move changes state-licensed medical marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III substance, a category reserved for drugs considered to have accepted medical uses. Supporters argue the change will expand medical research, reduce taxes on cannabis companies and create greater consistency between federal and state laws.

Yet critics warn that the reclassification may primarily benefit large corporations and investors already positioned to dominate the rapidly growing marijuana industry.

Financial analysts immediately pointed to major economic advantages for cannabis businesses. Under Schedule III status, qualifying companies could receive significant federal tax relief and improved access to banking and investment opportunities. Cannabis-related stocks rose sharply after the announcement, reflecting expectations of higher profits and broader commercialization.

What is often missing from the public discussion, however, is the cultural and social impact of normalizing a mind-altering drug.

For decades, marijuana remained illegal under federal law. While many people still used it, society at least maintained a clear message that the substance carried risks. The illegality itself acted as a moral and psychological barrier for some individuals, particularly young people considering experimentation.

Today, that barrier continues to weaken.

Supporters of legalization frequently present marijuana as harmless recreation or even as a wellness product. But critics argue that regular cannabis use can alter perception, motivation and emotional development, especially among adolescents and young adults whose brains are still developing. Mental health researchers have also raised concerns about possible links between heavy marijuana use and anxiety, depression, psychosis and reduced cognitive performance in vulnerable individuals.

The deeper philosophical question may be even more important: Why has modern society become increasingly dependent on external stimulants for happiness, relaxation or escape?

Children naturally experience joy without drugs or chemical enhancement. Historically, people found meaning through family, faith, work, creativity and community. Yet modern culture increasingly promotes the idea that emotional discomfort, boredom or stress should immediately be medicated, intoxicated or chemically softened.

Many marijuana advocates insist cannabis is safer than alcohol or opioids. Others point to legitimate medical applications for chronic pain or chemotherapy-related nausea. Even President Trump’s executive order emphasized expanding medical research and patient access to cannabis-derived treatments.

But recognizing limited medical uses is not the same as socially encouraging widespread recreational consumption.

There is also concern that commercial marijuana may follow the same trajectory as the tobacco and alcohol industries: aggressive marketing, political lobbying and normalization aimed particularly at younger generations. Once billion-dollar corporations become financially dependent on expanding cannabis consumption, the pressure to weaken regulations and broaden access will only intensify.

Government leaders and public institutions should not limit themselves to regulating or commercializing substances that alter the mind. They should also promote a cultural message that true well-being and happiness are built through healthy human relationships, physical activity, creativity, spirituality, discipline and purpose in life — not through artificial stimulants.

While marijuana may be less harmful than some other drugs, that does not necessarily make it the ideal path toward a healthy and balanced society. A nation should encourage its citizens, especially young people, to develop emotional strength and joy naturally, without dependence on chemicals to escape reality or create temporary pleasure.

This debate is not simply about marijuana itself. It reflects a larger national conflict over culture, public health and personal responsibility.

Should society continue moving toward greater chemical dependence as a form of entertainment and emotional management? Or should public policy encourage people to seek healthier forms of fulfillment rooted in real human connection and self-discipline?

The Trump administration’s move may be limited for now to medical marijuana, while recreational cannabis remains federally illegal. Additional DEA hearings scheduled for June could determine whether broader rescheduling follows.

But regardless of future legal changes, the public should not allow the debate to be driven only by corporate profits, political pressure or stock market enthusiasm. A serious national conversation must also consider the long-term effects on mental health, youth culture and society itself.

— With reports from government agencies and media sources.

 

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