The upcoming presidential election in Mexico has garnered significant attention, particularly among Mexicans living in the U.S. Over 675,000 Mexicans abroad, mainly in the U.S., are registered to vote, and many are eager to elect the country’s first female president. Diana Garcia from Dallas expressed her excitement and pride in this historic moment.
Early voting is underway, with Election Day set for June 2. Although the number of registered voters abroad is small compared to the nearly 98 million in Mexico, their participation remains crucial, according to Mario Campos, a political scientist at Ibero-American University. The growing interest among these voters is a positive sign.
Many have already voted by mail, online, or in person at consulates. This election is described as Mexico’s largest, with all 628 congressional seats and numerous local positions up for grabs.
The engagement of U.S.-based Mexicans reflects a broader effort to strengthen economic and political ties between Mexico and the U.S., where most Mexican expatriates reside. Francisco Moreno, co-founder of the Council of Mexican Federations, emphasized the importance of counting their voices and making voting more accessible.
This election’s stakes are high, as voters will decide whether to maintain or reform Mexico’s government structures. Claudia Sheinbaum, from the ruling party Morena, promises continuity of social programs that have alleviated poverty and crime. In contrast, her main rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, from the opposition coalition Broad Front for Mexico, argues that continuing Morena’s policies poses risks, citing issues like stalled economic development and high crime rates.
Sheinbaum’s campaign has resonated with many, including Clara Mejía Orta in Los Angeles, who is particularly concerned about pensions. Despite some reservations about Sheinbaum’s economic and immigration policies, Mejía Orta plans to vote after consulting her family in Mexico.
Jennifer Chavez Ramirez, a DACA recipient in Los Angeles, plans to vote for Sheinbaum online. She recalls Sheinbaum’s supportive stance towards undocumented young immigrants during her visit to Mexico City in 2022. Chavez Ramirez values the acknowledgment of their challenges and the encouragement provided by Sheinbaum.
Morena’s rise in 2018 as an alternative to traditional parties continues to shape the political landscape. Meanwhile, Jorge Álvarez Máynez of the Citizen Movement is trailing in the polls.
Remittances from Mexicans abroad, particularly from the U.S., are vital to Mexico’s economy, amounting to $63.3 billion in 2023. Gabriela Cuevas of Morena highlighted the importance of supporting the Mexican diaspora to leverage their contributions to various sectors.
As Mexicans in the U.S. cast their votes, the outcome of this historic election will significantly influence Mexico’s future direction.
