Ruben Rocha Moya, the governor of Mexico's Sinaloa state, returned to office on Friday. He had been on a leave of absence for more than three months.
The governor's leave followed accusations from U.S. prosecutors and the Trump administration. Rocha is accused of conspiring with a major criminal cartel to traffic drugs, partnering with the organization, and maintaining ties to kingpins of the Sinaloa Cartel.
Having previously stepped down to focus on his legal defense, Rocha Moya has now declared his return. He pledged to finish out his term through next year.
The decision to resume his duties is likely to inflame tensions with Washington and deepen strains between Mexico and the United States.