In a groundbreaking moment for Mexican politics, Claudia Sheinbaum has shattered glass ceilings and rewritten the country’s political landscape by clinching victory in a historic landslide win. The 61-year-old former mayor of Mexico City has secured between 58% and 60% of the vote, as declared by Mexico’s official electoral authority following Sunday’s monumental election. In yet another historical milestone, Sheinbaum also becomes the first Jewish individual to helm one of the world’s largest predominantly Catholic nations.
Sheinbaum’s triumph marks a significant milestone, not only as Mexico’s first female president but also for her resounding lead of approximately 30 percentage points over her closest rival, businesswoman Xóchitl Gálvez. This resounding mandate underscores the trust and confidence placed in Sheinbaum by the Mexican electorate, signaling a desire for change and progressive leadership.
Her Journey to politics
Born in Mexico City in 1962, Sheinbaum’s journey to the presidency is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to public service. Trained as a climate scientist, Sheinbaum’s career has been characterized by a deep-rooted passion for sustainability and urban development. Her tenure as mayor of Mexico City, from 2018 to 2024, earned her widespread acclaim for her progressive policies, including initiatives to combat climate change, improve public transportation, and enhance social welfare programs.
Throughout her campaign, Sheinbaum galvanized support from diverse sectors of Mexican society, appealing to voters with her vision of inclusive governance and socio-economic reform. Her platform emphasized the need for equitable access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, resonating strongly with millions of Mexicans eager for positive change.
Sheinbaum’s ascent to the presidency represents a watershed moment for gender equality and women’s empowerment in Mexico. Her victory not only symbolizes progress towards gender parity in politics but also serves as a source of inspiration for women and girls across the nation, reaffirming their potential to lead and excel in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Elections in Mexico
While the presence of two female front-runners was widely celebrated, the campaign was marred by instances of violent attacks. In addition to selecting a new president, voters were tasked with electing all members of Mexico’s Congress, governors in eight states, the head of Mexico City’s government, and numerous local officials. Particularly targeted in the lead-up to the vote were local candidates. The government reported more than 20 fatalities across Mexico, although alternative surveys suggest the toll could be as high as 37.
Election Manifesto
One of the many challenges awaiting Ms. Sheinbaum upon assuming office will be devising strategies to combat Mexico’s violent cartels. She has emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of violence and has pledged to invest in welfare programs aimed at deterring impoverished young Mexicans from joining criminal organizations. Regarding relations with Mexico’s northern neighbor, the United States— which have at times been strained under her predecessor— she has pledged to foster a relationship characterized by friendship, mutual respect, and equality. Additionally, she vowed to advocate for Mexicans residing and working in the US.
Relations between the US and Mexico deteriorated during the tenure of Mr. López Obrador, who, bound by Mexico’s constitution, was ineligible for reelection after serving a single six-year term. He threw his support behind Ms. Sheinbaum instead, a move that significantly bolstered her campaign, given his high approval rating of nearly 60%. Many of those who voted for her expressed support for ruling party Morena’s agenda to alleviate poverty and expressed a desire to see it continued.
With her landslide victory, Claudia Sheinbaum has etched her name into the annals of Mexican history, ushering in a new era of governance characterized by inclusivity, integrity, and progress. As she prepares to assume the mantle of leadership, all eyes are on Sheinbaum to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of the Mexican people and pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
