Mexico's Historic Election: A Closer Look at the Final Campaign Days
The latest rallies in Mexico mark the end of a three-month campaign that has left a snapshot of two contrasting candidates vying for the presidency. Claudia Sheinbaum, waving the flag of Mexico near the National Palace, promises to govern inclusively and uphold the legacy of President López Obrador. Meanwhile, Xóchitl Gálvez, who opted for a final rally in Monterrey, criticized the ruling party and emphasized the need for change and citizen security.
With three days to go until the elections, both campaigns have presented a stark contrast: Sheinbaum's rally in Mexico City was a grand display with a crowd of over half a million, promising humility and deep responsibility, while Gálvez's event in Monterrey was comparatively subdued, ending on a domestic note in her hometown, Tepatepec, Hidalgo.
The campaign trails have been exhaustive, covering Mexico's 1.9 million square kilometers, with each candidate focusing on distinct messages. Sheinbaum aims to consolidate the gains of the López Obrador administration, highlighting economic growth, foreign investment, and social aid programs. In contrast, Gálvez's campaign targets the institutional deterioration and increasing violence, proposing tougher measures against crime.
Violence has been a major concern throughout the campaign, with more than 30 candidates murdered and numerous attacks. The Independent National Electoral Institute (INE) had to close 96 voting booths for security reasons, affecting 57,000 voters. Organized crime's impact on Mexican politics has been particularly evident in state and local elections.
Despite the dire backdrop, the campaign also shows signs of change. For the first time, two women, Sheinbaum and Gálvez, have real aspirations to the presidency. Gálvez has been vocal about her intentions to bring criminals to justice and ensure citizen security, while Sheinbaum remains steadfast in her continuity-driven campaign.
Adding complexity to the political landscape is Jorge Álvarez Máynez of the Citizen Movement, who has appealed to young voters and those disillusioned with traditional parties. His campaign has faced significant challenges, including a tragic stage collapse that resulted in nine deaths.
As Mexico approaches election day, concerns extend beyond violence to critical issues like drought. Sixty percent of the country is suffering from water shortages, and both Sheinbaum and Gálvez have promised infrastructure improvements to address this crisis.
- Mexico's general elections are pivotal, promising to bring a woman to the presidency for the first time. 98 million voters are expected to participate.
- The campaigns have been grueling, with candidates traversing every corner of the country. Issues of security, economic stability, and social aid have dominated the discourse.
- The electoral race has not only seen political rivalry but has also been marked by electoral violence, with numerous attacks and murders impacting candidates and altering public perceptions.
- The closure of the campaign has highlighted both unity within parties and the individual prominence of candidates, reflecting broader political dynamics and electoral strategies.
- With violence rampant, the resilience of candidates and their focus on governance and promises of reform underscore the high stakes of this election.
