Marco Lopez

Marco Antonio López Jr. (born April 7, 1978) is an American politician. He has served in both elected and non-elected public offices, including as mayor of Nogales, Arizona, executive director of the Arizona-Mexico Commission, policy advisor to Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano for Mexico and Latin America, and director of the Arizona Department of Commerce. He is best known as a previous chief of staff of United States Customs and Border Protection who served from 2009 to 2011 under CBP Commissioner Alan Bersin, and as senior advisor to the U.S.-based foundation of billionaire Carlos Slim focused on broadband connectivity for all and free online education.

Early life and education Born in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, and raised in Nogales, Arizona, United States, Lopez became a United States citizen through naturalization. Lopez earned a bachelor's degree in liberal studies and political science from the University of Arizona.

Career

In 1994, Lopez began his career as a congressional page for Congressman Ed Pastor. Lopez joined the Al Gore 2000 presidential campaign in 1999. He served as Mayor of Nogales until 2004, earning the distinction of "America's youngest mayor." Lopez was appointed to serve as the chief of staff for United States Customs and Border Protection. He served in the position until 2011.

Business

Intermestic Partners In 2011, Lopez founded Intermestic Partners, one of the top international business development and political advisory firms in North America. Through Intermestic Partners, Lopez represents numerous Fortune 100 companies doing business between the United States and Latin America. Aside from advising top businesses and executives, he has worked with numerous political leaders in the United States and Latin America.

International Business Solutions Lopez is the president and CEO of International Business Solutions, Inc., a business advisory firm that provides consultancy services to domestic and international organizations. Lopez is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

2022 Arizona gubernatorial campaign

On March 16, 2021, López became the first candidate to announce his campaign for the 2022 Arizona gubernatorial election. López lost the primary election to Katie Hobbs.

Personal life

Lopez is a licensed private pilot.