Claudia Sheinbaum has been elected as Mexico’s first female president in a heated election where she is projected to win more than 58 percent of the national vote. A protege of the outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Sheinbaum’s win solidifies the governing Morena party’s hold on power. Her victory speech vowed to not let the people down and expressed her commitment to the country.
The principal opposition candidate, Xochitl Galvez, conceded defeat, acknowledging Mexico’s challenges of pain and violence, hoping that Sheinbaum can resolve these issues. Despite concerns over her close ties to Lopez Obrador, both have insisted that he will have no influence over her government. Sheinbaum’s political trajectory has closely aligned with AMLO’s policies, raising questions about her ability to lead independently.
Sheinbaum’s early life reveals a history of activism and involvement in social issues from a young age. With a PhD in energy engineering and experience serving on Lopez Obrador’s environmental team, she has developed a strong academic and political career. Analysts anticipate a more disciplined and planned approach to governance under Sheinbaum, contrasting with Lopez Obrador’s more local vision.
As Sheinbaum takes office, Mexico faces security challenges with high levels of violence and insecurity. Despite a decline in the homicide rate during her tenure as Mexico City mayor, Sheinbaum plans to continue the strategy of avoiding confrontation with crime groups and relying on the National Guard for security operations. Experts emphasize the state’s capacity, suggesting that Mexico lacks the resources to address security issues without military support.
The election campaign was marred by violence, with dozens of candidates killed and a high level of public concern over insecurity in Mexico. Sheinbaum’s background in activism and experience as mayor positions her to address these challenges, building on successful security measures implemented during her time in office. As she assumes the presidency, expectations are high for her to implement a more disciplined and planned approach to governance, addressing the country’s pressing security issues and other policy concerns.
