Voters are hitting the polls in Mexico for a historic election with more than 20,000 positions up for grabs, including 128 senators, 500 congressional deputies, nine governorships, and numerous local elections. The election is considered one of Mexico's most consequential, with an estimated 99 million citizens participating in the voting process.
This electoral cycle has been marred by a significant wave of violence, with over 35 candidates assassinated since the beginning of the election period. Additionally, there have been reports of 700 election workers, officials, or their relatives being kidnapped, harassed, or injured, highlighting the alarming level of political violence in the country.
The election presents a choice between continuity with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's platform, represented by his protégé Claudia Sheinbaum, or a change advocated by opposition leader Xochitl Galvez. Galvez leads a coalition of three traditional Mexican political parties and aims to bring about significant differences in governance.
One of the most notable aspects of this election is the potential for Mexico to elect its first female president, adding to its historical significance. However, the ongoing violence and security challenges pose a significant hurdle for the incoming administration.
The prevalence of violence in Mexico is attributed to President López Obrador's security strategy, 'Hugs Not Bullets,' which has been criticized for its focus on prevention rather than directly combating organized criminal groups. The country has witnessed a staggering number of homicides, journalist killings, and gender-based violence during López Obrador's tenure, underscoring the urgent need for effective security measures.
The next female president of Mexico will face the critical task of addressing the pervasive insecurity that plagues Mexican society on a daily basis, emphasizing the importance of implementing robust security policies to safeguard the population.
