Claudia Sheinbaum has been sworn in as Mexico’s first female president, taking over from the outgoing president and close ally, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. She will be serving a six-year term until 2030 and delivered her inauguration speech in front of parliamentarians, with supporters chanting “President! President!” and “Long live Mexico!” She emphasized the time of transformation and highlighted the importance of women in leadership. She also reassured investors that investments will be safe in Mexico, as her party holds a supermajority control in the legislature’s lower house.
Sheinbaum will have to contend with some last-minute moves by Lopez Obrador, such as a controversial judicial overhaul that will see federal judges elected by popular vote. This has raised concerns among advocates of judicial independence and investors. Additionally, she will be navigating through the US elections on November 5, which could have an impact on relations with Mexico’s top trading partner. She is also expected to deliver her government’s first budget in November, which will shed light on her ability to reduce the country’s fiscal deficit while maintaining welfare spending and fighting crime.
Sheinbaum’s inauguration represents a historic moment in Mexican politics, as she is the first woman to lead Mexico City and now the country’s first female president. She comes from a background of academic activism and has adopted a data-driven approach to leadership, known for reducing the city’s murder rate during her time as mayor. She has pledged to roll out similar security policies nationwide to address the high crime rates and influence of drug cartels. However, critics are skeptical about the feasibility of these promises.
With a background in energy engineering and climate work, Sheinbaum aims to strike a balance between protecting Mexico’s state-owned oil and power companies and promoting renewable energy projects. She has received a Nobel Peace Prize for her climate initiatives and has experience working with Lopez Obrador on environmental matters when he was the mayor of Mexico City. She has also been involved in his political campaigns in the past, showcasing a long-standing partnership.
Mexico remains a conservative country, with Sheinbaum’s presidency marking a shift in leadership and a potential for progressive policies. She has pledged to continue social spending programs introduced by Lopez Obrador, including pensions and scholarships. However, her success will depend on her ability to navigate through economic challenges, including modest growth forecasts for Mexico’s economy. With her focus on environmental sustainability and crime prevention, it remains to be seen how she will address these pressing issues while maintaining popular support.
