In an unprecedented moment for Mexico, two female candidates took center stage in the first of three debates ahead of the June 2 presidential election.
Claudia Sheinbaum, Xóchitl Gálvez, and Jorge Álvarez tackled key issues including health, education, corruption, and violence against women.
This historic debate highlighted the changing face of Mexican politics.
The National Electoral Institute facilitated this crucial discourse, where the candidates answered questions from a vast collection submitted by citizens.
The discussion brought to light a collective agreement on the need for greater transparency and an intensified fight against corruption, an issue that has seen a significant rise over the past decade.
Sheinbaum, leading in the polls and supported by Morena, PT, and PVEM, proposed a Federal Anti-Corruption Agency to combat corrupt officials and contractors.
Gálvez, from the “Broad Front for Mexico” coalition, pledged to build a maximum-security facility for major criminals.
Álvarez Máynez of Movimiento Ciudadano focused on drug regulation and a peace plan.
The debate also touched on immigration, with Sheinbaum advocating for addressing root causes like poverty in Central America through humanitarian efforts and cooperation with the U.S.
Historic Presidential Debate Marks Mexico’s Election Run-Up
Gálvez saw migration as a potential boon for Mexico, promising policies for a safe and respectful passage for migrants.
Álvarez Máynez suggested a shift towards a human rights-oriented approach to migration management.
The candidates each made their final appeals to the electorate, with post-debate claims of victory in the media.
Analysts, like Jorge Zepeda Patterson, praised the debate for offering a close look at the candidates’ platforms.
The upcoming election spans beyond selecting a president, encompassing Congress renewal, nine gubernatorial elections, and local votes for mayors and deputies, highlighting Mexico’s democratic diversity.