Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, Tijuana’s mayor on leave and a contender to become Baja California’s next governor, is calling for continued investment in the border state, arguing that its economic importance makes its well-being relevant to Mexico as a whole.
Baja California’s proximity to the United States gives the state a role that extends beyond its own communities, Burgueño said. For him, policies that improve conditions along the border can have repercussions throughout the country.
“What happens at our border also drives Mexico forward,” he added.
Among the federal measures he highlighted are the higher minimum wage along the border and projects related to water, housing, education and energy, along with the other programs promoted by the federal government under President Claudia Sheinbaum.
From Federal Policy to Everyday Life
Burgueño argued that the value of these initiatives ultimately depends on whether residents see their effects in their daily lives.
That means, he said, maintaining policies that address the needs of families across Baja California while ensuring that different levels of government work together.
His comments come as he continues traveling across the state as he seeks support in his bid to become Baja California’s next governor. During those visits, Burgueño has emphasized speaking directly with residents to understand the priorities of different communities.
Why the Border Matters Beyond Baja California
The argument behind Burgueño’s message is that Baja California’s economic relationship with the United States makes the state particularly important to Mexico’s broader development.
He said strengthening families and local communities does not conflict with that larger economic role; instead, he sees better living conditions as part of maintaining the state’s ability to contribute to the country.
For Burgueño, the goal is therefore to keep public projects and programs producing tangible results for Baja California residents while preserving the state’s contribution to Mexico’s economy.
