President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed Thursday that she accepted the resignation of Tatiana Clouthier from the Instituto de Mexicanos en el Exterior [1].

The departure marks a strategic shift for one of the administration's high-profile figures as she transitions from federal service to a state-level political campaign. This move signals the beginning of the competitive cycle for one of Mexico's most economically significant states.

Sheinbaum said Clouthier will seek a candidacy in Nuevo León [1]. The resignation follows the internal guidelines of the Morena party, which require office-holders to step down if they intend to run for elected positions [2].

According to reports, Clouthier is targeting the 2027 gubernatorial race [3]. Sheinbaum said Clouthier is heading to Nuevo León and must follow the established criteria of the party [2].

Sheinbaum praised the departing official, describing Clouthier's tenure as "extraordinario trabajo" [4]. The move allows Clouthier to establish her presence in the region well ahead of the official campaign window.

While some reports identify her previous role as the head of the IME [1], others mention her past tenure as the Secretary of Economy. Regardless of the specific portfolio, her exit from the cabinet creates a vacancy in the administration's outreach to Mexicans living abroad.

The timing of the resignation on May 7, 2026 [1], aligns with the party's need to organize candidates for the upcoming 2027 cycle [3].

“"va a Nuevo León y tiene que seguir el criterio de Morena"”

Clouthier's transition from a federal appointment to a gubernatorial bid in Nuevo León reflects Morena's strategy to place experienced national figures in key state contests. By resigning in 2026 for a 2027 race, she adheres to party discipline while gaining a temporal advantage to build a local coalition in a state often characterized by strong opposition to the federal government.