In a surprising turn of events, the Trump Administration has reportedly pulled the U.S. visas of Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, the current Governor of Baja California, Mexico, and her husband, Carlos Torres Torres, a prominent political figure in Tijuana.
This announcement, unveiled late Saturday via Governor Ávila’s official Facebook page, indicated that her husband was the first to have his visa revoked, with hers following promptly thereafter.
Carlos Torres, who plays a vital role in coordinating special projects for the Baja California state government and the city of Tijuana, took to social media to downplay the situation, claiming it was merely an “administrative measure” devoid of any investigations or accusations against him.
“Recently, I was informed by U.S. Consular Authorities regarding the revocation of my non-immigrant visa. This action, which affects many individuals under similar circumstances, is part of the internal workings of the State Department.
I want to clarify that my conscience is clear, and I am optimistic about a favorable resolution to this matter.
These administrative actions have become increasingly common, and I find myself in that same category.
This does not imply any accusation or investigation from authorities in either Mexico or the United States.
I have consulted with an international immigration law expert who is assessing the possibility of reopening or reconsidering the decision or starting the process for a new visa application, strictly following official protocols.
I share this information responsibly to prevent speculation and to curb the attempts of political adversaries who might exploit this situation. These are individuals lacking integrity, ready to twist facts into slander for their own gain.
Throughout my public life, I have adhered to the law and have been dedicated to serving. This situation will be addressed with seriousness and trust in legal processes.
Most importantly, there is no room for deceit or opportunism among those who act with dignity.
I regret that this issue has impacted my wife, Marina del Pilar, who, despite being innocent, has faced it with grace and empathy.”
Ávila Olmeda, a staunch ally of Mexico’s leftist President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, attempted to frame the visa revocation as a mere technicality, perhaps hoping for a wave of sympathy.
As a member of the National Regeneration Movement (MORENA), the same party as former President López Obrador and current President Claudia Sheinbaum, she too offered no official explanation for her visa revocation in her post.
“In the past few days, I have once again seen what love, integrity, and loyalty truly mean.
My husband, Carlos, is navigating a challenging situation, and as partners, it has inevitably affected me as well. Shortly after his visa was revoked, I received similar news.
I have full confidence that this matter will be resolved satisfactorily for both of us. I say this with absolute clarity: Carlos has always acted with integrity, dedication, and a strong commitment to Baja California.
My support for him is not only personal but also moral and political. I recognize his character and his willingness to take responsibility for matters that do not solely belong to him.
I want to inform all citizens of Baja California that we are dealing with a complex binational situation that requires my calmness and prudence.
I have repeatedly expressed that governing my state is a source of pride, and I will continue to do so with my heart and a clear conscience.
My administration will persist in working diligently to tackle the challenges we face for the benefit of the Baja California populace.”
However, if Ávila Olmeda was anticipating public sympathy, she was met with a wave of skepticism instead.
Frustrated by rampant cartel violence, economic decline, and governmental corruption, Mexican citizens took to social media to criticize the governor vehemently.
One user provided a cutting remark: “Governor, Trump’s message is unequivocal: ‘No exceptions for anyone; anyone with links to organized crime will be scrutinized.’ It might be wise to clear this up quickly, wouldn’t you agree?”
Another commentator joked about her travel limitations: “On the bright side, since you can no longer vacation in that neoliberal paradise, maybe you’ll have time to visit dictatorial paradises like Cuba, Venezuela, or Nicaragua. Congratulations.”
This incident is not an isolated case. On April 17, 2025, Matamoros Mayor Alberto Granados Fávila was detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Brownsville Port of Entry.
Following his detention, the U.S. government revoked his visa due to alleged connections to the Gulf Cartel, a notorious drug trafficking organization historically operating in Matamoros.
Granados Fávila is also affiliated with the MORENA Party.
