Claudia Sheinbaum was set to be elected Mexico’s first woman president on Sunday, exit polls showed. This is a milestone in a country plagued by rampant criminal and gender-based violence.
The 61-year-old former Mexico City mayor represented the ruling party. She won around 58 percent of votes, according to an estimate by the Enkoll polling firm.
That put her comfortably ahead of her main opposition rival Xochitl Galvez — an outspoken senator and businesswoman with Indigenous roots — who had 29 percent.
The only man running, long-shot centrist Jorge Alvarez Maynez, had around 11 percent, Enkoll said.
Other media also declared Sheinbaum the winner without specifying the percentage of votes.
An initial official result was expected on Sunday night.
Voters had flocked to polling stations across the Latin American nation, despite sporadic violence in areas terrorized by ultra-violent drug cartels.
Thousands of troops were deployed to protect voters, following a particularly bloody electoral process that has seen more than two dozen aspiring local politicians murdered.
Earlier, Sheinbaum hailed what she called a “historic” election day.
After casting her ballot, the presidential front-runner revealed she had not voted for herself but for a 93-year-old veteran leftist, Ifigenia Martinez, in recognition of her struggle.
Sheinbaum’s potential presidency represents a transformative moment for Mexico. As Sheinbaum first woman president, she would break barriers and inspire future generations.
Moreover, Sheinbaum’s background in science and engineering brings a unique approach to problem-solving.
Transitioning from her success in Mexico City, she aims to address national challenges with strategic initiatives.
Consequently, Sheinbaum first woman president would not only change Mexico’s political dynamics but also inspire global movements for gender equality.
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