By Natalia Rueda 
Mexico City – After a historic election, 61-year-old Claudia Sheinbaum has become Mexico’s first female president. This is a revolutionary moment for the nation, as for centuries Mexico has been a male-dominated society with deeply entrenched sexist underpinnings. Sheinbaum’s victory, marks a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
Throughout the campaign, Sheinbaum maintained a wide lead over her opposition candidates. She obtained between 58.3% and 60.7% of the popular vote, while her closest rival, Gálvez, obtained between 26.6% and 28.4%. Álvarez Maynez lagged behind with only between 9.9% and 10.8% of the vote. In her victory speech, Sheinbaum expressed her gratitude to the people of Mexico for entrusting her with the responsibility of driving the “fourth transformation” of the country’s public life. With tears in her eyes, she acknowledged the historic significance of becoming the first woman president in the 200-year history of the Republic.
Although her popular mentor Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) played a role in her victory, Sheinbaum’s own leadership trajectory also played a key factor. Her tenure as mayor of Mexico City and co-founder of the leftist Morena party demonstrated her ability to lead and effect positive change in the country.
Challenges Facing Sheinbaum
Sheinbaum has a lot of work ahead of her. One of the biggest problems she faces is the country’s alarming rate of violence. During López Obrador’s six-year term, Mexico recorded more than 170,000 homicides, making it the most violent presidential term in the country’s modern history. Sheinbaum will have to find more effective ways to combat drug trafficking and reduce violence to bring peace and stability to the country.
The country’s economic situation is also a cause for concern. Despite López Obrador’s austerity measures, the country faces a 6% fiscal deficit. The economy only grew at an average rate of 0.8% during the previous administration, and Sheinbaum will have to find a way to boost economic growth and create more opportunities for the people of Mexico while addressing the budget deficit.
Another pressing problem Sheinbaum will have to address is migration. Poverty and violence are the main drivers of Mexican migration to the United States. In the last six years, more than 2.5 million Mexicans have crossed the border. Sheinbaum will need to focus on creating economic opportunities and reducing violence to reduce the need for Mexicans to migrate in search of a better life.
Additionally, on the international front, Sheinbaum will have to navigate the complex relationship with the United States, Mexico’s largest trading partner. With the upcoming U.S. elections and the renegotiation of the TMEC, strong communication and diplomatic efforts will be necessary to protect Mexico’s interests.
Overall, Sheinbaum’s victory as Mexico’s first female president is a historic moment for the country. However, she faces significant challenges that require effective action to bring about positive change in the country. Mexico and the world will be watching to see how Sheinbaum assumes this historic role, and we can only hope for a successful and transformative presidency.
With information from AP