Mexico's Historic Election: Women Compete for Presidency Amidst Gang Violence
Mexicans headed to the polls on Sunday to choose their next president, with expectations pointing towards the potential historic victory of Claudia Sheinbaum from the ruling Movimiento Regeneración Nacional (MORENA). Sheinbaum could become the country's first female president, succeeding outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. The general elections also involve electing governors for nine states, congressional members, and various local officials, marking the largest election in Mexican history, with nearly 99 million registered voters.
The election process, which opened at eight in the morning and closed at six in the evening, saw preliminary results anticipated by 9 p.m. local time. This election is significant not only in terms of its size but also in the political and social context. The elections are largely viewed as a referendum on President Lopez Obrador's populist policies, amidst rising concerns over ongoing gang violence and economic performance.
The competition is primarily between two female candidates: Claudia Sheinbaum, the former mayor of Mexico City, representing the ruling party MORENA, and Xóchitl Gálvez, from the opposition coalition Fuerza y Corazón por México, comprising the PAN, PRI, and PRD parties. Having emerged from humble beginnings selling street snacks, Gálvez has promised to take a tougher stance on crime compared to Lopez Obrador's 'hugs, not bullets' policy.
Violence has marred the campaign season, with 37 candidates assassinated, including a candidate from Puebla just two days before the election. Despite this, voter turnout remains critical, with the participation rate expected to hover around 60%, consistent with previous elections. Additionally, around 675,000 Mexicans living abroad are registered to vote, although turnout among them is traditionally low.
The National Electoral Institute (INE) leveraged tools like the Preliminary Election Results Program (PREP) and quick counts to ensure transparency and timely dissemination of election results. These mechanisms are crucial for maintaining public trust, especially given the contentious claims surrounding the election, with both leading candidates prematurely declaring victory and urging supporters to respect the final outcome. The election stakes are high, with the ruling party aiming to secure a two-thirds majority in Congress for potential constitutional amendments.
- Despite technological advancements like the PREP system and electronic voting for Mexicans abroad, the election day was not without its hitches. Reports indicated delays in opening some polling stations and incidents of violence, which disrupted voting in certain areas, such as Coyomeapan in Puebla.
- U.S. authorities also closely monitored Mexico's election, highlighting the interconnectedness of issues like trade, immigration, and **border cooperation** between the neighboring countries. The Biden administration anticipates continued collaboration with Mexico, crucial for managing migration and border security.
