Payam Javan: Claudia Sheinbaum is set to become Mexico’s first female president, making history in the country’s 200-year history. Following the National Electoral Institute’s announcement, Sheinbaum, with an irreversible lead, expressed her gratitude and emphasized the collective achievement, highlighting the contributions of women throughout Mexico’s history.

Sheinbaum, a climate scientist and former Mexico City mayor, received between 58.3% and 60.7% of the vote, according to a statistical sample. Opposition candidate Xóchitl Gálvez garnered between 26.6% and 28.6%, while Jorge Álvarez Máynez had between 9.9% and 10.8%. Sheinbaum’s Morena party is also projected to hold majorities in both chambers of Congress.

With her victory, Sheinbaum, who will also be Mexico’s first president from a Jewish background, will start her six-year term on October 1, with no possibility of reelection per the Mexican constitution.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador congratulated Sheinbaum on her significant victory, noting it approached his landslide win in 2018. Despite the decisive win, Sheinbaum may not receive the same level of unwavering support that López Obrador enjoyed.

Opposition candidate Gálvez, in her concession speech, acknowledged Sheinbaum’s victory but emphasized the need for tangible results and solutions to the country’s challenges.

Voter turnout was about 60%, with nearly 100 million registered voters. In addition to the presidential race, voters elected governors in nine states, congressional representatives, mayors, and other local officials, in an election marked by violence.

The elections were seen as a referendum on López Obrador’s administration. Sheinbaum pledged to continue his policies, including a universal pension for the elderly and a youth apprenticeship program. However, persistent cartel violence and economic concerns remain significant issues for voters.