Apr 11, 2022 - World

Mexican voters back president to stay in power

Rebecca Falconer

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador gestures during his daily morning briefing conference at National Palace. On April 1, 2022 in Mexico City, Mexico. — Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador during a briefing at the National Palace in Mexico City this month. Photo: Ismael Rosas/ Eyepix Group/Future Publishing via Getty Images

Mexicans who voted in a recall election Sunday overwhelmingly cast their ballots in favor of Andrés Manuel López Obrador remaining in office — but turnout was low, according to preliminary results.

Why it matters: The unprecedented election was designed to bolster support for the leftist leader, known as "AMLO," who was on course to secure roughly 90% of the votes, per Reuters.

López Obrador pledged in his 2018 election push to give voters the chance to remove him from office during the second half of his term, Bloomberg notes.

Yes, but: The referendum result will not be binding with a turnout of less than half the 40% threshold — with 17%-18.2% of eligible voters casting their ballots, Reuters reports.

Critics argue that the nearly $80 million spent on the campaign was money wasted and opposition parties were boycotting the vote, according to AP.

Between the lines: Surging prices and López Obrador's failure to control violence in the country has affected his popularity, NPR notes.

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Mexican voters back president to stay in power

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