Mexico’s presidential contenders wrapped up their campaigns Wednesday, with polls showing ruling party hopeful Claudia Sheinbaum likely to become the country’s first woman president.
The former Mexico City mayor closed her campaign in the capital, alongside mayoral hopeful Clara Brugada.
Sheinbaum plans to adjust policies on energy, security, and corruption, but avoids highlighting differences with current President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.
“We will have an honest government without corruption or impunity. We will maintain the necessary division between economic and political power. We will not submit to any economic or foreign power, no matter how powerful it may be.”
“Let it be clear that this is not about an iron fist, wars or authoritarianism, but about justice, attention to the causes, strengthening the National Guard. Intelligence, investigation and coordination will be the cornerstones of the security strategy.”
Meanwhile, opposition candidate Xochitl Galvez closed her campaign in Monterrey after leading a massive rally.
The 61-year-old former senator and businesswoman pledged to enhance social programs, combat corruption, and address the widespread violence caused by organized crime.
“Is security today better than ever? Of course not. One hundred eighty-six thousand people were murdered, and 50,000 people disappeared.”
Galvez lags Sheinbaum by 17 points according to a local polling firm.
Now Mexico’s biggest election yet will see over 20,000 positions contested and nearly 100 million eligible voters.
In the previous vote in 2018, 63% of eligible voters participated in the presidential contest, but pollsters say turnout this time looks hard to predict.
Besides the presidency, voters will choose lawmakers for Congress, a new mayor of Mexico City, eight state governors, and many local officials.
Whoever wins will confront challenges including high crime rates, a sluggish economy, and uncertainty over energy policy.
San Miguel Times
Newsroom
