In a historic landslide win on Sunday, Claudia Sheinbaum has become the first woman president of Mexico. Her victory marks a significant step for the country, especially in a society struggling with criminal and gender-based violence. Sheinbaum, who will start her six-year term on October 1, brings a new dynamic to the presidency, different from her mentor and current President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
Who Is Claudia Sheinbaum?
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo was born in Mexico City in 1962. She comes from a family of scientists. Her father, Carlos Sheinbaum, is a chemical engineer, and her mother, Annie Pardo, is a cell biologist. Sheinbaum’s brother, Julio, is also a physicist. This scientific background deeply influenced her career path.
Sheinbaum studied physics at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). She earned her undergraduate degree, followed by a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in energy engineering. In 1995, she became the first woman to earn a Ph.D. from UNAM’s Faculty of Engineering. Her thesis focused on energy trends in Mexico, showcasing her expertise in the field.
What Are Her Academic Achievements?
Sheinbaum’s academic accomplishments are impressive. In 1995, the same year she received her Ph.D., she was awarded the prize for best young researcher in engineering and technological innovation at UNAM. Her career as a climate scientist includes participation in the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which won a Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for their report.
She has authored over 100 articles and two books on the environment, energy, and sustainable development. In a 2023 interview, Sheinbaum stated, “I believe in science,” reflecting her lifelong commitment to scientific research and environmental issues.
How Long Has She Been in Politics?
Claudia Sheinbaum’s political career began in 2000 when she served as Secretary of the Environment under Andrés Manuel López Obrador, then the Head of Government. From 2015 to 2017, she was the Delegational Chief of Tlalpan, Mexico City’s largest borough. In 2018, she was elected as the Head of Government of Mexico City, becoming the first woman to hold this position.
During her time as mayor, Sheinbaum focused on reducing crime and enforcing zoning laws. She made crucial decisions during the Covid-19 pandemic, including expanding testing and implementing business restrictions, despite López Obrador’s more relaxed approach. Her leadership during the pandemic demonstrated her willingness to prioritize public health over economic concerns.
What Makes Her Election Historic?
Claudia Sheinbaum’s election is historic for several reasons. She is the first woman to be elected president of Mexico, breaking the political glass ceiling. She is also the first person from a Jewish background to lead the predominantly Catholic country. Sheinbaum’s victory represents a significant shift towards inclusivity and diversity in Mexican politics.
Sheinbaum is a member of the ruling MORENA Party and won around 58-60 percent of the votes, according to preliminary results from the National Electoral Institute. Her election is seen as a major step forward for gender equality in Mexico.
Is Claudia Sheinbaum Married and Does She Have Children?
Claudia Sheinbaum is married to Jesús María Tarriba Unger, a financial risk analyst for the Bank of Mexico. They began dating in 2016 and were married in November 2023. She announced their marriage on social media, expressing their happiness after a private ceremony with family.
Sheinbaum was previously married to Carlos Ímaz, a prominent figure in the Party of the Democratic Revolution. They were married in 1987 and separated in 2016. They have a daughter, Mariana, born in 1988. Sheinbaum also raised Ímaz’s son, Rodrigo, from his previous marriage. She is a proud grandmother to Pablo and often shares moments with him on social media.
Conclusion
Claudia Sheinbaum’s election as Mexico’s first female president is a historic milestone. Her extensive background in science and politics, coupled with her commitment to public service, positions her uniquely to lead the country. As she prepares to start her term, Mexico looks forward to the changes and progress she will bring.
