Mexico's Senate has voted to eliminate seven independent regulatory and oversight agencies. Critics say it is a massive move to cement the ruling party's power and avoid outside scrutiny.

A vote in the country’s Senate has cleared the way to abolish seven independent organizations that provided oversight on issues such as public information and price fixing.

The proposal passed both houses of Mexico’s Congress, leading critics to fear weakened government transparency.

President-elect Donald Trump said Wednesday that he had a “productive conversation” with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, their first talks since Trump announced tariffs against the US’ southern neighbor.