70% of Mexicans Support Military Operation Against Cartel

Seven out of 10 Mexicans support the military operation that resulted in the death of one of the country's most powerful cartel leaders, according to a new national survey.

The operation targeted Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). De las Heras Demotecnia, a Mexican political research firm, found that 88% of citizens were aware of his death, reflecting the massive media attention surrounding the federal deployment.

When asked to rate the military operation, 69% of respondents gave it a score of eight or higher out of 10. The average rating landed at 8.3, showing strong public backing for direct action against organized crime.

The operation boosted President Claudia Sheinbaum's approval ratings significantly. Nearly half of survey participants said their opinion of the president improved following the action, while another 7% said their already positive view remained unchanged.

Even violent retaliation from alleged CJNG members, including arson attacks and road blockades, did not dampen public support. Over 55% of Mexicans maintained or improved their favorable view of Sheinbaum despite the chaos that followed.

The Bright Side

The public response reveals something important about Mexico's appetite for change. After years of cartel violence affecting communities across the country, citizens are rallying behind leadership willing to take decisive action.

The high awareness rate of 88% shows Mexicans are paying attention to security issues that directly impact their daily lives. This level of civic engagement suggests a population ready to support sustained efforts to restore safety and territorial control.

While El Mencho's death does not mean the CJNG will disappear, the operation demonstrates that even the most powerful criminal organizations are not untouchable. The cartel operates transnationally across multiple continents, and succession battles may create short-term instability.

However, the institutional capacity to respond and the clear public mandate for action provide a foundation for continued progress. The survey results show that Mexicans are willing to stand behind leaders who prioritize their safety, even when the path forward includes challenges.

This moment of broad public support creates an opportunity for sustained change in how Mexico confronts organized crime.