Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Local deputy Renán Sánchez Tajonar has spent more than 1.6 million pesos ($80,000) on digital advertising over recent years, according to online ad transparency records, prompting residents to question the source and purpose of the funds.
Between February 9 and May 9, the deputy invested at least 235,687 pesos on 132 paid ads, data from digital platform ad libraries show. The total accumulated spending, estimated at 1,632,326 pesos, is largely tied to strategies aimed at positioning himself for the Cozumel mayoral race, along with posts related to his state-level party activities.
The disclosure comes amid broader scrutiny of the Quintana Roo state legislature, which operates on an annual budget exceeding 500 million pesos for its 25 deputies — an average of about 21 million pesos per legislator, as recently highlighted by President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Residents expressed mixed reactions. José Uc, a resident of the San Gervasio neighborhood, said the money could have been better used for local needs. “That’s a lot of money for advertising while the island has needs. It could go toward support or improving services,” he said.
Laura Paredes, a downtown shopkeeper, called for transparency on the funding source. “We’re not against them reporting their work, but we are against spending so much without knowing exactly where the money comes from,” she said.
Carlos Interián, another resident, argued the debate should extend beyond the amount spent. “The problem isn’t just how much is spent, but what it’s spent on and with what resources. Official advertising should serve informational purposes, not personal promotion,” he said.
Sánchez Tajonar took office as a local deputy in September 2022 for the XVII legislature and was reelected for a second consecutive term starting in 2024 and ending in 2027. He also serves as the state party leader, increasing his visibility across Quintana Roo.
As of now, no detailed information has been released on whether the advertising funds came from public, private, or party sources, intensifying the debate over accountability and the use of political promotion resources.
