Luis Carlos Ugalde, the former president of Mexico's Federal Electoral Institute, expressed concerns over President Claudia Sheinbaum's Plan B electoral reform, describing it as superficial and cosmetic. In an interview with El Financiero, Ugalde argued that the reform does not tackle the underlying issues that impede democracy in Mexico. He emphasized that the proposed changes are merely aesthetic and do not fundamentally resolve the systemic problems affecting the electoral process.

Ugalde pointed out that the plan sends two critical messages: first, that it aims for a superficial reform without addressing the root causes of dysfunction in the political system; second, it suggests that Sheinbaum intends to keep the narrative against political party spending alive. He believes that this is a strategic move ahead of the upcoming 2027 elections, as it potentially helps her galvanize voter support by including electoral issues in popular consultation topics.

The implications of Ugalde's critique highlight a growing concern among political analysts regarding the efficacy of reforms that do not genuinely engage with the complexities of electoral integrity and democratic governance in Mexico. By branding the changes as 'cosmetic', Ugalde is calling for more substantive reforms that genuinely enhance democratic practices and ensure fair electoral processes in the country.