(NewsNation) — Violent demonstrations erupted across Mexico over the weekend, leaving 100 police officers hurt in the clashes with protesters.
The so-called “Gen Z” protests called for more enforcement to prevent organized crime and alleged government corruption following the assassination of a lawmaker who had spoken out against cartels.
Protesters also targeted Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, criticizing her socialist political background and her handling of cartel violence.
The New York Post reported antisemitic graffiti, including the phrase “Jewish whore,” sprayed on Mexico’s top court building, referring to Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first Jewish president.
Cartel killing sparks outrage in Mexico
The killing of Carlos Manzo, mayor of the city of Uruapan in Michoacan, who spoke openly about cartel violence, sparked anger among young Mexicans.
Manzo was killed during Day of the Dead celebrations on Nov. 1. He had criticized the federal government for not doing more to confront organized crime.
Thousands rallied in Mexico City on Saturday, many wearing cowboy hats in tribute to Manzo, and gathered outside the National Palace, where Sheinbaum lives and works.
The demonstrations turned violent as protesters hurled rocks, fireworks, and sticks at police guarding the palace. Some were seen grabbing riot shields from authorities.
After several hours of escalating clashes, officers deployed tear gas to disperse the crowds.
Mexico City’s security chief said 120 people were injured in total, including 100 police officers, 40 of whom required hospital treatment.
Erik Herrera, an American photojournalist covering the protest, witnessed one police officer being brutally beaten by protesters outside the palace, calling it a moment he feared would turn fatal.
By the end of the day, police had arrested 20 people.
Sheinbaum questions ‘Gen-Z’ protest
Saturday’s demonstrations drew a reaction from lawmakers in Washington.
Rep. Carlos Gimenez, R-Fla, said, “We support peaceful demonstrations against the Sheinbaum government as its citizens are tired of their country being held hostage to narco-terrorists. It appears that the people have finally realized that the Sheinbaum government is part of the problem and not the solution.”
Meanwhile, Sheinbaum has questioned the motivation behind the protests, saying that right-wing political parties backed Saturday’s turnout.
Despite the unrest, Sheinbaum continues to hold a high approval rating with Mexican voters.
Could the US step in?
The protests have raised questions about whether growing violence could push the U.S. to take a more aggressive stance against cartels.
For now, it appears unlikely.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week the U.S. will not take unilateral action or send troops into Mexico, offering support only if requested by Mexico’s government.
However, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott warned Sunday that this rise in political violence could spill over the border and heighten tensions in the region.