Claudia Sheinbaum, an environmental scientist and former mayor of Mexico City, was elected as the country’s first female president.
This milestone comes in a nation often struggling with gender-based violence and deep-rooted misogyny.
With almost 40% of the votes counted, Mexico’s electoral agency predicted that Sheinbaum would win with between 58% and 60%.
In her victory speech, Sheinbaum announced that both her rivals had conceded and congratulated her.
“I will become the first woman president of Mexico,” she proudly declared to her cheering supporters.
The future is female
Outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, widely regarded as Sheinbaum’s political mentor, expressed his congratulations on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Claudia Sheinbaum has been the leading candidate for over a year, representing hope and progress in a country where violence against women is tragically common.
At 61, Sheinbaum is an accomplished climate scientist.
She was part of the U.N. team that shared the Nobel Peace Prize with former U.S. Vice President Al Gore in 2007.
Her grandparents escaped the Holocaust, and now she will hold Mexico’s highest office.
Celebrated Mexican writer Elena Poniatowska, 92, spoke about Sheinbaum’s win, saying,
“I’ve always believed in women. I think it’s not a dream. I think it’s a battle that has been won.”
Sheinbaum’s mentor
Despite the significance of Sheinbaum’s victory, many Mexicans see this election as a referendum on López Obrador’s presidency.
Known as AMLO, he is a divisive figure who has implemented popular social programs but also faced criticism for undermining democratic institutions.
One voter, Ignacio Morales, 77, chose Sheinbaum because of her connection to López Obrador. He praised AMLO’s initiatives, like new train lines and pensions for the elderly, and expressed his unwavering support.
Sheinbaum, who started her political career as AMLO’s environmental minister, has been a loyal supporter of his policies, even those that seem to conflict with her environmental background.
She promised to continue his popular social programs, including cash payments to low-income residents.
For many voters, Sheinbaum represents continuity and stability.
Further, Norma Bautista Herrera, a vegetable seller in Mexico City, supports Sheinbaum because of the financial aid she received during AMLO’s presidency, which helped her provide for her daughter.
Additionally, Sheinbaum’s nearest competitor, Gálvez, an Indigenous tech entrepreneur, could not distance herself from the corruption associated with her party.
Mexico’s reputation
Despite the win, the election was also marked by violence, with over 30 candidates assassinated.
Furthermore, Claudia Sheinbaum faces significant challenges as she prepares to take office on October 1st.
Notwithstanding, she must address the nation’s growing violence, a large budget deficit, powerful cartels, and the complex relationship with the U.S.
Her victory brings hope for change and progress.
