Mexico.
Claudia Sheinbaum became the first female president of Mexico, marking a historic milestone in the country’s political history. Her victory in the 2024 presidential election is significant not only because she is the first woman to hold the office, but also because she is the first person of Jewish heritage to do so in a predominantly Catholic nation. Born in Mexico City in 1962, Sheinbaum is a scientist by training, holding a Ph.D. in energy engineering, and she has had a long-standing involvement in politics, particularly with Mexico’s leftist political movements.
Before becoming president, Sheinbaum served as the Head of Government of Mexico City from 2018 to 2023, a role equivalent to a mayor of one of the largest and most complex urban areas in the world. Her leadership during that time, especially her handling of environmental issues, public transportation, and her response to the COVID-19 pandemic, helped raise her national profile.
Sheinbaum ran as the candidate of the Morena party, which was founded by her political mentor and predecessor, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO). Her campaign focused on continuing AMLO’s progressive social programs, combating corruption, and improving infrastructure and security in the country.
Her election is seen as a breakthrough moment for women in Mexican politics, symbolizing a broader shift toward gender equality in leadership roles. Despite challenges, Sheinbaum’s presidency is expected to influence the future of governance in Mexico and inspire a new generation of women leaders in Latin America and beyond.
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