Mexico is at a transcendental moment in its history, since next Sunday, June 2, an election will be held that could set a precedent in the country: the possibility of having its first female president in power. The leading candidates are Claudia Sheinbaum and Xóchitl Gálvez, who have been campaigning on opposing platforms focused on addressing Mexico’s pressing issues.
With a record of more than 98 million citizens eligible to vote, these elections are expected to be the most popular in the country’s history. This demonstrates the commitment of Mexicans to their democracy and their interest in participating in the election of their leaders.
What do they propose?
The main candidate in the race is Claudia Sheinbaum, current mayor of Mexico City and member of the leftist Morena party, she has a strong lead in the polls with an average of 55% support. She has promised to continue the progressive policies of the current administration and address issues of poverty and inequality head-on.
Her main competition is Xóchitl Gálvez, senator and businesswoman from the center-right party PAN, she trails Sheinbaum with only 33% support in the polls. She has focused her campaign on addressing escalating violence and drug trafficking in the country, advocating for a tougher stance against cartels.
The elections come at a critical time for Mexico, as the country has been plagued by a deadly spiral of violence. Since 2006, more than 450,000 homicides and 100,000 missing people have been recorded, and women have been especially affected by the high rates of violence against them in the country.
In addition to these pressing issues, the outcome of the election will also have a significant impact on the country’s relationship with the United States, its largest trading partner. With the US elections approaching in November, Mexico’s next president will have to confront potential changes in the relationship between the two nations.
The successful candidate will also have to address important social issues, such as poverty and inequality without increasing the fiscal deficit (5%). Outgoing president López Obrador has been popular for implementing social programs that lifted millions out of poverty.
The clash of visions between Sheinbaum and Gálvez reflects the divided opinions within Mexico on how to address the country’s problems. When voters go to the polls on Sunday, they will have to decide between continuity and change, and the impact of their decision will shape Mexico’s path for the next six years.
As Mexico prepares for this historic election, it remains to be seen what changes and new direction voters will choose for their country. But one thing is certain: this election has significant implications not only for Mexico but also for its relationship with the rest of the world.
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