First female president elected in Mexico amid widespread violence | International

In Mexico, over 98 million voters are heading to the polls to decide the country’s future on Sunday. The frontrunner is Claudia Sheinbaum, who could become Mexico’s first female president. She represents the ruling MORENA party and aims to continue the current policies. While Xóchitl Gálvez leads the opposition coalition, public opinion polls indicate she has little chance of winning.

For those seeking an alternative, the Citizens’ Movement offers a third option. Despite advocating for issues like marijuana legalization and abortion, the party faces an uphill battle. Poverty and violence are key issues in the campaign, with poverty affecting 36% of the population and crime rates remaining high.

The ruling party’s economic achievements, such as raising minimum wage and attracting foreign investment, are crucial factors shaping the election. The opposition focuses on insecurity while assuring the continuity of social support programs. With concerns about PRI’s declining popularity and the conservatives gaining ground in Mexico City, the outcome of the election remains uncertain.

As Mexicans head to the polls, the future direction of the country hangs in the balance, with significant implications for economic policies, social programs, and political dynamics.

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