Claudia Sheinbaum’s recent electoral victory as Mexico’s first female president marks a turning point in a country grappling with widespread gender-based violence and misogyny. With an electoral agency estimating her win at nearly 59% of the vote, she surpasses her closest competitor, Xóchitl Gálvez, and other opposition candidates.
Election Results:
- Claudia Sheinbaum: ~59%
- Xóchitl Gálvez: ~28%
- Jorge Álvarez Máynez: ~10%
Sheinbaum’s historic victory is seen by many as a referendum on outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, her political mentor. López Obrador, who has been a polarizing figure, extended his congratulations to Sheinbaum on social media.
Throughout her campaign, Sheinbaum has expressed unwavering loyalty to López Obrador’s policies, including his pro-oil energy agenda. She retains a reputation for being analytical and disciplined, which has been crucial to her political success.
Sheinbaum’s extensive background in environmental science includes being part of the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change team that won a Nobel Peace Prize in 2007. This academic and professional foundation complements her political journey from being López Obrador’s environmental minister when he was mayor of Mexico City, to now holding the highest office in the country.
Key Support Factors:
- Endorsement from López Obrador.
- Promises to continue social programs like universal pension benefits and cash payments to low-income residents.
Despite her victory representing progress for women in politics, many view it through the lens of López Obrador’s influence and policies rather than as a stand-alone achievement. The relationship between Sheinbaum and López Obrador is instrumental in the eyes of voters who value his initiatives aimed at combating poverty and supporting the elderly.
Supporter Sentiment:
- Ignacio Morales, Age 77: Praises López Obrador’s projects and social programs.
- Norma Bautista Herrera, Market Vendor: Relies on monthly payments initiated under López Obrador’s administration.
Xóchitl Gálvez, an Indigenous tech entrepreneur, positioned herself against López Obrador’s policies but failed to gain enough traction. Her campaign was perceived as being tainted by the corruption associated with her party affiliations, despite her compelling personal story.
Violence During Elections:
The elections were also marred by violence, with over 30 candidates being assassinated. One notable incident involved the murder of Jorge Luis Huerta Cabrera, a Green party candidate, just days before the vote.
Challenges Ahead:
- Tackling increasing violence.
- Addressing the largest budget deficit since the 1980s.
- Managing cartel influence.
- Navigating the intricate relationship with the U.S.
Sheinbaum’s Morena party and its allies now hold a majority in Congress, giving her a robust mandate to govern. She has committed to maintaining peace and working towards a fairer and more prosperous Mexico, assuring even those who disagree with her policies of her inclusive governance approach.