Whoever emerges victorious in Mexico’s general election on Sunday could potentially make history by becoming the country’s first female president.
Mexico and the United States have strong economic ties, being each other’s primary trading partners, with trade volumes nearing close to a trillion dollars.
The two nations share a nearly 2,000-mile border, and migration issues play a significant role in the current presidential election campaign.
In addition to potentially electing the first female president, Mexican voters will also decide on numerous seats in the Senate, Chamber of Deputies, as well as various local and state elections.
This election is expected to be the largest in Mexico’s history, with over 100 million voters likely to cast their ballots in 2024.
The incumbent president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO), is ineligible for another term, setting the stage for a new leader to take office.
University of Houston political science professor Jeronimo Cortina highlighted the contrast between the current administration and the upcoming election, emphasizing the shift in economic policies and security strategies.
AMLO’s successor from the Morena Party, Claudia Sheinbaum, is currently leading in polls and has pledged to continue the party’s agenda aimed at reducing poverty and inequality.
Under AMLO’s leadership, the Mexican government has implemented various public projects and security measures, including utilizing the military for infrastructure projects and border security.
Observers have expressed concerns about the concentration of power within the armed forces and the administration’s impact on public institutions.
AMLO’s political approach has been described as leftist economic policies combined with populist rhetoric.
Opposition candidate Xochitl Galvez, supported by a coalition of parties with differing ideologies, aims to challenge the Morena Party’s dominance in the election.
Pundits suggest that the outcome of the election will reflect a choice between supporting liberal democratic principles or endorsing a populist, authoritative style of governance.
The United States has maintained a working relationship with AMLO’s administration, particularly on border security issues, without overtly criticizing his policies.
If Sheinbaum wins, she is expected to continue the current approach to U.S.-Mexico relations, as both countries seek cooperation on border control.
Among the millions of Mexican voters participating in the election, approximately 1.3 million are registered voters living abroad, with the majority residing in the United States.
These expatriate voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots at Mexican consulates across the U.S., showcasing the importance of their input in the democratic process.
Latin America and Caribbean
Mexico’s historic elections will likely put a woman in power
6:05 AM, May 28, 2024
Political experts underscore the significance of the upcoming election in Mexico, which has far-reaching implications for the country’s future trajectory and international relations.
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