Experienced news anchor Gustavo Macalpin was unexpectedly terminated live on air on October 7, 2024 in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico. His dismissal followed his criticism of a recent political appointment during his show.
Macalpin spent seven years with Channel 66, acting as host of “Ciudadano 2.0,” a show recognized for its incisive political analysis. In the broadcast that led to his firing, Macalpin scrutinized the appointment of Carlos Torres, husband of Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, as special projects coordinator for Tijuana. This prominent position ignited fears of potential conflicts of interest, especially considering Torres’ strong political connections.
Immediately after his critical comments, Macalpin received a text message hinting at his impending dismissal. Shortly thereafter, Channel 66’s owner and general manager, Luis Arnoldo Cabada, made an unusual appearance on set to confirm the news. Embracing Macalpin, Cabada announced, “I came to thank you for your last six years of work,” before adding, “but this is your last day.”
Speculation has since risen about the connection between Channel 66 and the Governor’s office following Macalpin’s sudden termination. Macalpin later took to TikTok to suggest his dismissal likely stemmed from his persistent political criticisms. However, he underscored that he believed the decision to fire him was a long time in the making by the station owner, and not just a consequence of criticizing Torres.
Channel 66 News Director Francisco Javier Garcia revealed that the relationship between Macalpin and Cabada had been strained recently, leading to the decision to let the anchor go. Cabada later called into Garcia’s news program to apologize for the manner in which the termination was conducted. On social media, Cabada noted that although Macalpin was an excellent individual, he never quite meshed with Channel 66’s team.
Many viewers have taken to social media to criticize Cabada and blame Governor Ávila for Macalpin’s dismissal. On her part, the governor posted on social media that she considered Macalpin a friend and wished him well in his future communication endeavors.
Ávila denied any involvement in the firing decision and expressed her shock at the sudden termination. She reiterated her commitment to free speech on Facebook, asserting she respects everyone’s right to express their opinions.
On the following Wednesday, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called for Macalpin’s reinstatement during a press conference. She stated that if his dismissal was due to criticism leveled at the governor or anyone else, it was inappropriate. The Mexicali Network of Journalists has not yet issued a statement.
