On Tuesday, May 14, 2025, Ronald D. Johnson was officially sworn in as the 81st United States ambassador to Mexico during a ceremony held at the Department of State in Washington, D.C. Johnson succeeds Ken Salazar, who represented U.S. interests in Mexico from September 2021 until the close of the previous administration in January 2025.
During the oath-taking, Ambassador Johnson was joined by Vice President J.D. Vance and Mexico’s ambassador to the United States, Esteban Moctezuma Barragán. The solemn transfer of credentials followed Johnson’s narrow confirmation by the U.S. Senate on April 9, 2025, in a 49–46 vote largely along party lines.
A Veteran Diplomat with Intelligence and Military Roots
Johnson brings to Mexico City a blend of military, intelligence, and diplomatic experience. A former U.S. Army Green Beret and Central Intelligence Agency Science and Technology Liaison, he served as ambassador to El Salvador from 2019 to 2021 under President Trump’s first term. His nomination to Mexico was announced by President Trump on December 10, 2024, and formally transmitted to the Senate on February 12, 2025.
Appointment Amid Strained Bilateral Relations
Johnson steps into his post at a time of heightened tensions between the two neighbors. His confirmation process unfolded against the backdrop of recent tariff disputes and policy proposals that raised Mexican concerns over potential unilateral U.S. military action against drug cartels on Mexican soil. President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly opposed any form of U.S. military intervention, urging constitutional protections for Mexican sovereignty.
Mexican Government Welcomes New Envoy
Following the swearing-in, Ambassador Moctezuma Barragán took to X (formerly Twitter) to express optimism about the incoming envoy’s priorities. “I attended the swearing-in of the ambassador-designate to Mexico, who reiterated his openness and willingness to strengthen our bilateral relationship. Congratulations!” he wrote.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Johnson will be tasked with advancing cooperation on trade, migration management, security collaboration, and climate resilience. He is expected to arrive in Mexico City shortly to present his credentials to President Sheinbaum, formally inaugurating his tenure at the U.S. Embassy.
