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Lawmakers object to Mexico's status as drug fighting ally
March 3, 1997
Web posted at: 6:50 p.m. EST
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Two key Democrats planned to introduce a measure to yank Mexico's renewed certification as a U.S. ally in the war against drugs.
House Minority Leader Richard Gephardt planned to introduce legislation this week to overturn President Clinton's decision to renew Mexico's certification. Sen. Diane Feinstein of California said she would match it with a similar bill.
Both the legislation's sponsors and White House officials said it was unclear whether there was enough support in Congress to overturn the Mexico certification.
"It's unclear if it will succeed," conceded a Gephardt aide.
But Senate Minority Leader Thomas Daschle predicted that upholding the administration's position would be "an uphill battle" in Congress.
The Clinton administration planned to lobby hard to persuade lawmakers to let its decision stand, according to a White House official. Most members of Congress have not expressed views on the subject, the official said.
Hispanic lawmakers could object to the legislation, which would give the appearance of undermining support for Mexican President Ernesto Zedillo.
And even if the House and Senate were to pass the measure, Clinton could veto it.
Related stories:
- U.S. grants full drug certification to Mexico - February 28, 1997
- Grisly murder points to drugs, powerful figures in Mexico - December 6, 1996
- Border war: Summit focuses on surge in drug smuggling - July 10, 1996
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