Mexicans are gearing up to vote in an election that is set to make history with the first female president of the country likely to be elected. However, the campaign leading up to the election has been marred by violent attacks that have claimed the lives of more than 20 local candidates across Mexico. With the backing of the popular outgoing president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, frontrunner Claudia Sheinbaum seems to have an edge over her main rival Xóchitl Gálvez.
The election will not only decide the next president but also all members of Mexico’s Congress, governors in eight states, and the head of Mexico City’s government. Both candidates have put forth their visions for the country, with Sheinbaum promising to build on López Obrador’s achievements in reducing poverty and assisting the elderly, while Gálvez has criticized the current administration’s approach to combating crime and violence in the country.
Gálvez’s promises to strengthen institutions and provide better pay to the police have resonated with voters critical of López Obrador’s leadership style. However, she has faced criticism for lacking a detailed plan on how to tackle the powerful criminal organizations that are behind much of the violence in Mexico.
The outcome of the election will not only shape the future of the country but also have implications on democracy and governance in Mexico. It will be interesting to see if the election results in a shift in policy direction or a continuation of the current administration’s agenda. Regardless of who wins, the challenges of violence, poverty, and corruption will continue to be pressing issues that the new government will have to address.
