Claudia Sheinbaum has made history by becoming Mexico's first woman president in a landslide victory. Preliminary results from Mexico's official electoral authority indicate that the 61-year-old former mayor of Mexico City secured between 58% and 60% of the vote in Sunday's election. This remarkable lead of almost 30 percentage points over her main rival, businesswoman Xóchitl Gálvez, signals a significant shift in the political landscape of Mexico.
Ms. Sheinbaum is set to replace her mentor, outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, on October 1st. She has pledged to continue the progressive policies of Mr. López Obrador, stating in her victory speech, "I won't fail you." Supporters celebrated at the Zócalo, Mexico City's main square, waving banners that read "Claudia Sheinbaum, president."
A Trailblazing Career
Before her presidential run, Claudia Sheinbaum served as the mayor of Mexico City, one of the country's most influential political positions. Her tenure as mayor was seen as a precursor to her presidential aspirations. Ms. Sheinbaum's journey to the presidency is rooted in her academic and scientific background. She holds a doctorate in energy engineering and has an extensive career in climate change research.
Her maternal grandparents, who were Jewish, immigrated to Mexico from Bulgaria to escape the Nazis, while her paternal grandparents hailed from Lithuania. Both of her parents were scientists, which influenced her academic pursuits. She studied physics and later became an expert on Mexican energy consumption patterns and climate change.
Political Ascension
Ms. Sheinbaum's political career took off when she was appointed as the secretary of the environment for Mexico City during Andrés Manuel López Obrador's mayoral tenure. In 2018, she made history as the first female mayor of Mexico City, a role she held until 2023 when she stepped down to run for president.
Her election against Xóchitl Gálvez is seen as a significant moment for women in Mexico. Edelmira Montiel, 87, expressed her gratitude for witnessing a woman ascend to the highest office, highlighting the progress made since women were granted the right to vote in 1953.
Challenges and Triumphs
The campaign was not without its challenges. Violent attacks marred the election, with more than 20 local candidates killed across Mexico. Ms. Gálvez criticized the government and her rival for the ongoing violence, pledging to confront crime if elected. However, her failure to provide detailed plans to tackle criminal cartels may have contributed to her defeat.
President López Obrador, barred from seeking a second term, threw his support behind Ms. Sheinbaum, significantly boosting her campaign. His approval rating of close to 60% and the success of Morena's poverty alleviation programs played a crucial role in her victory. Millions of Mexicans have been lifted out of poverty in the past six years, a key factor in voter support for Ms. Sheinbaum's continuation of these policies.
Looking Forward
As Claudia Sheinbaum prepares to take office, she faces the challenge of maintaining and expanding the progress made under her predecessor. Her victory is a milestone for gender equality in Mexico and a testament to her dedication to social and environmental issues. The world will be watching as she steps into her new role, hoping she will continue to inspire and lead Mexico towards a brighter future.
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Source: BBC
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