Is Claudia Sheinbaum the Best President of Mexico?
Introduction
The claim that "Claudia Sheinbaum is the best president of Mexico" is a subjective assertion that requires careful examination. As the first female president of Mexico, Sheinbaum has garnered significant attention and support since her election in June 2024. However, evaluating her presidency requires a nuanced understanding of her policies, public approval, and the challenges she faces. This article will explore the context of her presidency, analyze her achievements and criticisms, and provide evidence to assess the validity of the claim.
Background
Claudia Sheinbaum, a trained physicist and former mayor of Mexico City, was elected president in June 2024 with a historic margin, capturing the largest share of the vote since 1982. She officially took office on October 1, 2024. Her election marked a significant milestone in Mexican history, as she became the first woman to hold the presidency. Sheinbaum is a member of the National Regeneration Movement (Morena) party, which has been associated with progressive policies aimed at addressing social inequalities and enhancing economic growth.
Since her inauguration, Sheinbaum has maintained a high approval rating, often reported to be around 80-85% [1][3][5]. This widespread support is attributed to her handling of various domestic and international issues, including her interactions with former U.S. President Donald Trump and her administration's approach to crime and economic policies.
Analysis
Public Approval and Popularity
One of the most significant indicators of Sheinbaum's effectiveness as president is her approval rating. Polls indicate that she enjoys an approval rating of approximately 85%, which is notably high for a political leader [3][6]. This level of support suggests that many Mexicans view her leadership positively, particularly in light of her handling of relations with the United States and her domestic policies.
Sheinbaum's popularity has been bolstered by her calm and firm approach to diplomacy, especially in dealing with the Trump administration. Her ability to engage with Trump while asserting Mexican sovereignty has resonated with the public. For instance, she has publicly defended Mexico against U.S. tariffs and has emphasized the importance of dialogue and respect between nations [2][4][7].
Domestic Policies and Achievements
Sheinbaum's administration has focused on several key areas, including economic reform, crime reduction, and social justice. Her government has initiated a six-year industrial plan aimed at stimulating economic growth and attracting foreign investment. Additionally, she has overseen the passage of constitutional reforms that aim to enhance judicial independence and accountability [1][10].
Her administration has also made strides in addressing crime, particularly in combating drug cartels. Sheinbaum's approach has been characterized by a balance between engaging with U.S. demands for action against drug trafficking while maintaining a strong stance on Mexican sovereignty. This dual approach has garnered her praise domestically, as many citizens are concerned about crime and violence in the country [4][8].
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite her popularity, Sheinbaum's presidency is not without challenges. Critics argue that her administration has not adequately addressed issues such as poverty, corruption, and violence. While she has made progress in some areas, the effectiveness of her policies in reducing crime and improving living conditions remains a point of contention [2][9].
Moreover, the political landscape in Mexico is complex, and Sheinbaum's ability to navigate this terrain will be crucial for her long-term success. The opposition parties are actively seeking to capitalize on any perceived shortcomings in her administration, which could impact her approval ratings and legislative agenda [1][4].
Evidence
The evidence supporting the claim that Sheinbaum is the best president of Mexico is mixed. On one hand, her high approval ratings and significant electoral victory indicate strong public support. Her administration's focus on economic reform and crime reduction aligns with the priorities of many Mexican citizens. Furthermore, her historic election as the first female president represents a significant step forward for gender equality in Mexican politics [2][3][5].
On the other hand, the challenges she faces, including ongoing issues with crime and social inequality, suggest that her presidency is still a work in progress. Critics argue that while her approval ratings are high, they do not necessarily equate to effective governance or the resolution of pressing national issues [9][10].
Conclusion
In conclusion, the claim that "Claudia Sheinbaum is the best president of Mexico" is subjective and requires careful consideration of various factors. While her high approval ratings and significant achievements as the first female president are noteworthy, the challenges she faces in addressing crime, poverty, and governance cannot be overlooked. Ultimately, whether Sheinbaum is regarded as the best president will depend on her ability to navigate these challenges and deliver on her promises to the Mexican people.
References
- Approval Tracker: Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum. (2025). AS/COA. Retrieved from AS/COA
- The power of 'La Presidenta'. (2022). Inquirer Opinion. Retrieved from Inquirer Opinion
- Is Mexico's Claudia Sheinbaum the Most Powerful Woman in the World? (2025). Bloomberg. Retrieved from Bloomberg
- ANALYSIS | Mexico's president is praised at home for handling Trump. (2023). CBC News. Retrieved from CBC
- President Sheinbaum's approval rating is higher than ever. (2025). Mexico News Daily. Retrieved from Mexico News Daily
- Claudia Sheinbaum hits record 85% approval rating as she assures Mexico. (2025). Pressenza. Retrieved from Pressenza
- Donald Trump, tariffs: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum's approval. (2025). AFR. Retrieved from AFR
- 100 days in, President Sheinbaum's approval rating is still climbing. (2025). Mexico News Daily. Retrieved from Mexico News Daily
- Mexico's Secret Weapon in Trade War? Claudia Sheinbaum's Popularity. (2025). Bloomberg. Retrieved from Bloomberg
- Image of Power: Claudia Sheinbaum begins her presidency with an approval rating close to 70%. (2025). Directorio Legislativo. Retrieved from Directorio Legislativo
