In the final presidential debate before the June 2 election in Mexico, the candidates Claudia Sheinbaum, Xóchitl Gálvez, and Jorge Álvarez Máynez presented their platforms and traded attacks as they sought to win over the almost 100 million registered voters in the country. Each candidate made promises and offered various social and economic proposals, but did not elaborate on how they would implement them. Personal attacks were also a prominent feature of the debate, with accusations and criticisms flying between the candidates. The debate was divided into segments covering social policy, security, organized crime, migration, and democracy, but lacked a face-to-face portion that was originally planned.
In terms of security, a major concern for Mexican voters, the candidates used statistics to support their own claims. Sheinbaum highlighted a decrease in the perception of insecurity in Mexico City during her time as mayor, while Gálvez countered by pointing out an increase in homicides. Sheinbaum emphasized the achievements of President López Obrador’s administration, but independent organizations have reported high levels of impunity in the country’s justice system. Gálvez criticized Sheinbaum for her association with López Obrador and accused the government of being soft on organized crime. Álvarez Máynez proposed the elimination of drug prohibitions and decriminalizing abortion as part of his security policy.
The candidates had little to say about migration, agreeing on the need for Mexico to be firm with the U.S. on migration issues. Sheinbaum praised López Obrador’s approach to addressing the causes of migration and offering support to Central America. Gálvez criticized López Obrador for agreeing to stricter immigration policies in exchange for U.S. concessions without demanding more for Mexican immigrants. Álvarez Máynez called for Mexico to be firm in its dealings with the U.S., especially in the face of a possible return to power by former President Trump. The candidates did not address the impact of Mexico’s own restrictive migration policies on migrants passing through the country.
After presenting their platforms and engaging in the final presidential debate, the candidates will now await the decision of Mexican voters on election day. Sheinbaum, Gálvez, and Álvarez Máynez made their pitches to voters on various issues, from social programs to security and migration. With personal attacks, promises, and statistics shaping the debate, it will be up to the electorate to determine which candidate they believe has the winning hand. The candidates’ responses on key issues like security, migration, and social policy will be crucial factors for voters as they consider their choices in the upcoming election.
