As Mexico concluded its last day of campaigning on Wednesday ahead of the nationwide election, the atmosphere was overshadowed by violent attacks on candidates and the country’s alarmingly high homicide rate. Opposition candidate Xóchitl Gálvez and Claudia Sheinbaum, the candidate of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s Morena party, held their final rallies, each presenting a starkly different vision for the nation’s future.

The Final Campaign Push

Xóchitl Gálvez’s Rally and Key Messages

Xóchitl Gálvez, starting her final campaign day early on the outskirts of Mexico City, fiercely criticized President López Obrador’s “hugs not bullets” approach to drug cartels. Gálvez’s message resonated with many voters frustrated by the current administration’s inability to curb violence and crime.

Gálvez’s Critique of López Obrador’s Policy

“Are we going to continue with hugs, or are we going to apply the law to criminals?” Gálvez asked her supporters, drawing cheers from the crowd. She emphasized that Mexico desires peace and tranquility, which she believes can be achieved by reinstating police funding and enhancing law enforcement capabilities.

Claudia Sheinbaum’s Campaign Strategy

Sheinbaum’s Commitment to Continuity

Former Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum, leading in the polls, has committed to continuing López Obrador’s policies if elected. Her platform aims to build on the current administration’s achievements and maintain its approach to governance and security.

Public Reaction to Sheinbaum’s Platform

Sheinbaum’s promise to uphold López Obrador’s strategies has garnered mixed reactions. While some appreciate the continuity and stability, others are concerned that it may not address the pressing issues of crime and violence effectively.

Violence and Security Concerns in the Election

Attacks on Candidates

The election period has been marred by numerous attacks on candidates, reflecting the dangerous political climate. These incidents have heightened public concern over safety and the effectiveness of current security policies.

High Homicide Rates

Mexico’s persistently high homicide rate remains a critical issue. Many voters are looking for solutions that can provide lasting security and peace, making it a central theme in the campaigns.

López Obrador’s “Hugs Not Bullets” Policy

Policy Overview

President López Obrador’s “hugs not bullets” policy focuses on addressing the root causes of crime through social programs and avoiding direct confrontation with drug cartels. This approach has been controversial and widely debated.

Criticism of the Policy

Critics argue that this policy has failed to reduce violence and has allowed criminal organizations to operate with impunity. The redirection of police funding to the National Guard is also a point of contention, with opponents claiming it weakens local law enforcement.

Gálvez’s Proposed Changes

Reinstating Police Funding

Xóchitl Gálvez has promised to return funding to police forces, emphasizing the need for professional and well-paid officers. She proposes a minimum wage of $1,200 per month for police to ensure their commitment and effectiveness.

Enhancing Law Enforcement

Gálvez aims to enhance law enforcement’s professional and investigative abilities, addressing criticisms of the National Guard’s effectiveness in combating drug gangs.

Sheinbaum’s Vision for Security

Continuing Current Policies

Claudia Sheinbaum plans to continue López Obrador’s policies, focusing on social programs and maintaining the National Guard’s role in security. She believes that addressing social issues will lead to long-term reductions in crime.

Balancing Security and Social Programs

Sheinbaum’s approach seeks to balance security efforts with social development, aiming for a holistic solution to Mexico’s violence.

The Public’s Desire for Change

Calls for Effective Solutions

The electorate is demanding effective solutions to the nation’s security issues. Many are skeptical of the current administration’s policies and are looking for new strategies that promise real change.

Voter Sentiment

Voter sentiment is divided, with some supporting the continuity promised by Sheinbaum and others advocating for the changes proposed by Gálvez. The outcome of the election will hinge on which vision resonates more with the public.

As Mexico heads into Sunday’s nationwide election, the stark differences between the candidates’ approaches to security and governance are clear. Xóchitl Gálvez’s promise to return funding to police and enforce the law contrasts sharply with Claudia Sheinbaum’s commitment to continue López Obrador’s policies. The nation’s high homicide rate and the violence that has plagued the campaign period underscore the urgent need for effective leadership. The results of this election will significantly impact Mexico’s future direction in addressing crime and ensuring public safety.