Mexico is on the brink of a historic election, set to elect its first female president this weekend. Leading candidates Claudia Sheinbaum and Xochitl Galvez are competing to break the highest political glass ceiling in a country with a significant history of gender violence and inequality.
The candidates: Sheinbaum and Galvez
Claudia Sheinbaum, the ruling party candidate and a former mayor of Mexico City, has strong support from her ally, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, whose approval rating exceeds 60 percent. Sheinbaum, a scientist by training, leads with 55 percent voter support, according to Oraculus.
Opposition candidate Xochitl Galvez, an outspoken senator and businesswoman with Indigenous roots, represents a coalition of opposition parties and holds 33 percent support. The only male candidate, Jorge Alvarez Maynez, trails significantly with just 12 percent.
“A woman president will be an inspiration for women in every sector,” said Guadalupe Correa-Cabrera, a professor at George Mason University. This election marks a significant shift in Mexican politics, potentially inspiring women across the nation.
Challenges ahead
The next president will face substantial challenges, including managing migration, relations with the United States, and rampant criminal violence. Over 450,000 people have died, and tens of thousands remain missing due to crime since 2006.
Cartel violence remains a critical issue. “The spread of organized crime and flourishing cartels is the most daunting problem Sheinbaum will need to confront if elected,” said Michael Shifter, a researcher at the Inter-American Dialogue think tank.
Sheinbaum has pledged to continue Lopez Obrador’s controversial “hugs, not bullets” crime strategy. In contrast, Galvez, who often speaks of her humble beginnings, advocates for a tougher stance on crime, declaring “Hugs for criminals are over.”
Relations with the United States
Managing the complex relationship with the U.S. will be crucial, particularly if Donald Trump is reelected. Trump’s anticipated hardline stance on immigration, trade, and drugs could strain bilateral relations.
Gender violence and poverty
Despite political advancements, gender violence remains a major issue, with around 10 women murdered daily. Economic inequality persists, with over a third of Mexicans living below the poverty line, despite Latin America’s second-largest economy.
Public sentiment
Voters like Fatima Gonzalez, a 20-year-old vendor, admire Galvez’s authenticity, while others, like Ricardo Escobar, 20, hope Sheinbaum’s presidency will improve education and scholarships.
In addition to the presidency, Mexicans will vote for Congress members, state governors, and local officials, with over 20,000 positions contested. Nearly 100 million people are registered to vote, underscoring the election’s significance for Mexico’s future.