Claudia Sheinbaum Will Serve as Mexico’s First Female and Jewish President

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Courtesy of EneasMx

Historic Victory for Claudia Sheinbaum

In a landmark moment for Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum has been elected as the country's first female president. According to a statistical sample from the National Electoral Institute, Sheinbaum secured between 58.3% and 60.7% of the vote. Her victory signifies a pivotal point in Mexican history, representing progress in gender equality and political leadership.

“I will become the first woman president of Mexico,” Sheinbaum announced in a triumphant speech at a downtown hotel, expressing gratitude to the heroines who have shaped the nation’s history. Her two main competitors conceded, recognizing her decisive win.

A Continuation of López Obrador’s Legacy

Sheinbaum’s campaign focused on continuing the political and social reforms initiated by her mentor, outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. At 61 years old, Sheinbaum, a climate scientist and academic, pledged to uphold López Obrador’s vision, including a universal pension for the elderly and a program that pays youths to become apprentices. She emphasized that her administration will follow the outgoing president’s policies but with more data to support her decisions.

Overcoming Challenges and Competition

Despite a spirited challenge from opposition candidate Xóchitl Gálvez, Sheinbaum maintained a strong lead throughout the campaign. This election was historic not only because of Sheinbaum’s victory but also because it was the first time Mexico's two main presidential opponents were women. However, the election was marred by violence, including the murder of town council candidate Israel Delgado on election day, underscoring the persistent security issues in the country.

Sheinbaum’s Background and Achievements

Claudia Sheinbaum's journey to the presidency is underpinned by her extensive academic and political career. Born in Mexico City to a family of scientists, Sheinbaum has a Ph.D. in energy engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). She has served in various political roles, including Secretary of the Environment of Mexico City, Mayor of Tlalpan, and Head of Government of Mexico City. During her tenure as Head of Government, she implemented significant environmental and educational reforms, such as the introduction of a gender-neutral uniform policy and the expansion of public transportation.

Crime and Policing

During the first 52 months of her term as Mexico City's head of government., Sheinbaum presided over 5,078 homicides, a figure higher than those recorded under the administrations of Andrés Manuel López Obrador, Marcelo Ebrard, and Miguel Ángel Mancera. Despite this, Sheinbaum successfully reduced the homicide rate from 17.9 per 100,000 people in 2018 to 8.6 in 2022.

Education

As part of her administration's education policy, the "Mi Beca para Empezar" scholarship program was created for 1.2 million students from preschool to secondary education, later elevated to constitutional law in Mexico City. The Rosario Castellanos Institute of Higher Studies and the University of Health were created. Additionally, community centers called Pilares ("Pillars") were established in marginalized neighborhoods and towns to promote arts, sports, education, and cultural activities.

Environment

In June 2019, Sheinbaum announced a new six-year environmental plan. It includes reducing air pollution by 30%, planting 15 million trees, banning single-use plastics, and promoting recycling. The plan also involves building a new waste separation plant, providing water service to every home, constructing 100 kilometers of corridors for the exclusive use of trolleybus lines and the Mexico City Metrobús system, and installing solar water heaters and solar panels.

Public Transport

In September 2019, Sheinbaum announced a 40 billion peso (US$2 billion) investment to modernize the Mexico City Metro over the next five years. The investment includes modernization, re-strengthening, new trains, improving stations, stairways, train control and automation, user information, and payment systems. Other initiatives include constructing 200 kilometers of bicycle paths, six bicycle stations, 2,500 new bicycles for the Ecobici system, subsidies for public transportation, and introducing the Cablebús cable car system in the Iztapalapa borough to alleviate traffic congestion and improve transit.

Addressing Mexico’s Core Issues

Sheinbaum’s presidency comes at a critical time for Mexico, with ongoing concerns about cartel violence and economic stability. Her administration pledges to tackle these issues with a data-driven approach, building on López Obrador’s policies while introducing new measures to address the root causes of crime and economic disparity. As a climate activist, Sheinbaum is also expected to prioritize environmental sustainability and innovative energy solutions.

Sheinbaum’s Plan To Address Cartel Violence

The Mexican drug war, which began in 2006, involves the government fighting various powerful drug cartels like the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Despite efforts, the violence has persisted, with the official death toll exceeding 120,000 by 2013 and many more missing. Sheinbaum plans to address the root causes of cartel violence by focusing on reducing economic disparities and corruption. Her strategy includes enhancing law enforcement capabilities, fostering international cooperation, and implementing social programs aimed at preventing young people from joining criminal organizations.

A New Era for Mexico

Claudia Sheinbaum's election as Mexico’s first female president is a historic achievement that signals a new era for the nation. Her leadership promises continuity with a fresh perspective, aiming to address Mexico’s pressing issues through informed policy decisions. As Sheinbaum prepares to take office, the world watches with anticipation for the changes her presidency will bring. Sheinbaum Stated the following, “I don't make it alone. We've all made it, with our heroines who gave us our homeland, with our mothers, our daughters and our granddaughters.” Lets hope she sticks by her words and brings Mexico the peace it deserves!

For further updates on Claudia Sheinbaum’s presidency and its impact on Mexico, stay informed with InfoDecon. Our comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis keep you updated on global political developments, ensuring you never miss a crucial moment.

References

Claudia Sheinbaum Early political career & Head of Government of Mexico City (2018–2023)

Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as its first woman president

Mexican war on drugs; Guerra contra el narcotráfico en México