Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed doubt over US charges against Sinaloa Governor Rubén Rocha, saying the accusations lack credibility without clear and irrefutable evidence. US prosecutors unsealed an indictment in New York charging Rocha and nine current or former officials with alleged ties to the Sinaloa Cartel (one of Mexico's most powerful drug trafficking organisations), including claims that cartel members helped rig his 2021 election by stealing ballots and intimidating rivals in exchange for political protection. Sheinbaum said Mexico would not shield anyone proven guilty but warned that, absent solid proof, the charges appeared politically motivated — a stance analysts say could deepen tensions with Washington if Mexico declines to act on the indictment.