Claudia Sheinbaum has made history by becoming the first woman to be elected president of Mexico with over 59 percent of the vote. Leaders from countries including the United States, Brazil, and Chile have offered congratulations and expressed optimism about working with her when she takes office in October. Sheinbaum is a member of the left-leaning Morena party and has pledged to continue the progressive policies of her predecessor, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.
Lopez Obrador, who founded the Morena party and is leaving office with high approval ratings, has been praised for his progressive policies such as expanding social programs for the poor. However, he has also faced criticism for controversial initiatives such as increasing the military’s mandate and working with the United States on migration issues. Sheinbaum, who has a close professional relationship with Lopez Obrador, has promised to continue his work during her six-year term as president.
Leaders on the political left in Latin America have expressed optimism about Sheinbaum’s election and hope that it will lead to stronger economic ties and a more inclusive region. The Morena party’s win is seen as a show of strength for the left in a region where conservative candidates have recently won presidential elections in countries such as Ecuador and Argentina. Sheinbaum’s election marks a historic moment for Mexico as its first female president and first president of Jewish heritage.
While Sheinbaum’s election is a milestone for Mexico, activists warn that it may not necessarily lead to significant progress for women’s rights in the country, where women face high levels of violence and discrimination. Sheinbaum’s critics have also expressed concerns about her pledge to support the state-run oil company, Pemex, which has faced scrutiny over its environmental impact. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has praised Sheinbaum’s leadership and highlighted the importance of fighting climate change and promoting gender equality.
Sheinbaum’s election comes at a time when the left in Latin America has faced setbacks in countries like Colombia and Chile, where left-leaning presidents have seen their popularity decline. However, the Morena party’s victory in Mexico’s national election signals a potential for the left to hold and expand its legislative majority. Sheinbaum’s victory has been met with enthusiasm from leaders across the region who see her win as a positive step towards a more just and peaceful Latin America.
