It is possible that whoever wins Mexico’s general election on Sunday will make history by becoming the country’s first female president. Mexico and the U.S. have strong economic ties, being each other’s top trading partners with close to a trillion dollars in trade. The issue of migration plays a significant role in the presidential politics of both countries due to their shared border.
In addition to potentially electing the first female president, Mexico will also be choosing representatives for numerous seats in their Senate, Chamber of Deputies, and in their state elections. This election is expected to be the largest in the country’s history, with over 100 million Mexican voters participating.
The current president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, known as AMLO, will be leaving office after serving one six-year term. The upcoming election is seen as a choice between continuing AMLO’s policies through Claudia Sheinbaum or opting for a different direction with Xochitl Galvez.
Under AMLO’s leadership, Mexico has seen significant public works projects and border security measures, with some expressing concern about the heavy involvement of the armed forces in government affairs. There is also skepticism surrounding AMLO’s influence on public institutions like the judiciary and the electoral agency.
Claudia Sheinbaum, AMLO’s successor and a former mayor of Mexico City, leads in the opinion polls. She emphasizes reducing poverty and inequality while promoting a fair and prosperous life for all Mexicans. If elected, she is likely to maintain AMLO’s approach to U.S. relations.
Political analysts suggest that AMLO’s politics represent a mix of left-leaning economic policies and populism. Sheinbaum’s main opponent, Xochitl Galvez, represents a coalition of parties united against AMLO and the Morena Party, advocating for a liberal democratic system in Mexico.
As the election approaches, the focus is on the impact of the candidates on U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly regarding border control and migration. The outcome of the election could shape the future of both countries’ economic and political landscape.
Latin America and Caribbean
Mexico’s historic elections will likely put a woman in power
6:05 AM, May 28, 2024
As Mexico prepares to make a historic decision, the world watches to see the outcome of this pivotal election.
