Mexico is set to hold a presidential election on June 2nd, 2024. The leading candidates are Claudia Sheinbaum from the Morena party, Xochitl Galvez from the National Action Party, and Jorge Máynez from the Citizens' Movement. Sheinbaum is currently favored to win due to her endorsement by outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. However, her background and policies have raised questions among some voters.
Sheinbaum was the leading presidential candidate for her party last summer but faced controversy during a hotel meeting when rival supporters accused the contest of being rigged. She has been a prominent figure in Mexican politics since serving as Mexico City's mayor from 2018 to 2021.
Approximately 2.5 million Mexicans, mostly women, work as domestic workers within the country. Many have never voted due to feeling ignored by the government and societal stigmas surrounding their profession. Concepción Alejo, a domestic worker for over two decades, shares this sentiment.
Mexico's next president will inherit a complex political landscape following López Obrador's tenure. His controversial policies, such as reversing pro-competition energy-market reforms and attacking independent institutions like the electoral body and Supreme Court, have left a significant impact on Mexico's economy, security, and governance.
The United States will also be closely watching the election results due to Mexico's role in addressing issues like drugs trafficking, security, migration, trade relations with the US market, poverty reduction through minimum-wage increases and infrastructure projects. The next Mexican president will have a significant impact on both countries' relationships and global standing.
Sheinbaum or Galvez will face challenges in managing Mexico's political landscape without López Obrador's advantages, including less money to spend due to his lavish spending on infrastructure projects, patronage programs, and bailing out Pemex. Regardless of the outcome, it is crucial for both countries to maintain open communication and collaboration.