Who is Claudia Sheinbaum?

Claudia Sheinbaum is Mexico’s first female president, elected in 2024. She leads the Morena party and is a protégé of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO).

What are Claudia Sheinbaum’s climate policies in 2025?

Sheinbaum, a climate scientist, focuses on sustainable energy, aiming for 50% renewable energy usage by 2030, alongside reforestation and electric transport initiatives.

How did Sheinbaum win the 2024 Mexico elections?

Sheinbaum secured 58-60% of the vote in the 2024 elections, defeating Xóchitl Gálvez, thanks to her association with AMLO and Morena’s strong voter base.

Claudia Sheinbaum: Mexico’s First Female President – A Historic Journey in 2025

Claudia Sheinbaum: Mexico’s First Female President

A Visionary Leader Shaping Mexico’s Future with Science and Social Justice in 2025

Genesis of a Visionary: From Academia to Action.

Within the academic enclave of Mexico City, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, from her birth on June 24, 1962, absorbed the values of inquiry and social responsibility, nurtured by her parents, a chemical engineer and a prominent UNAM biologist. This academic household profoundly influenced Sheinbaum’s worldview, embedding a deep respect for science and its potential to address societal challenges.

Sheinbaum’s heritage is equally significant—her grandparents were Jewish immigrants who fled Lithuania during the Holocaust, seeking refuge in Mexico. This background instilled in her a sense of resilience and a global perspective, which later shaped her inclusive approach to governance. Growing up in the vibrant, yet often unequal, Mexico City of the 1960s and 1970s, she witnessed firsthand the disparities that would later drive her political career.

Her academic journey began at UNAM, where she pursued a degree in physics, graduating in 1989. Her interest in sustainability led her to specialize in energy engineering, earning a master’s degree and later a Ph.D. in the same field by 1995. Her doctoral thesis, which examined energy consumption patterns in Mexican buildings, showcased her early commitment to environmental sustainability—a theme that would define her leadership. During her studies, Sheinbaum spent time as a visiting researcher at the University of California, Berkeley, where she collaborated with global experts on energy efficiency, further broadening her perspective.

Her contributions to IPCC climate mitigation reports earned her a share of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize, a recognition alongside global figures like Al Gore. This recognition highlighted her expertise, which she later brought into politics, advocating for evidence-based policies. Beyond academics, Sheinbaum was an active participant in student movements at UNAM, supporting causes like educational reform and social justice, experiences that ignited her political consciousness.

1962: Born in Mexico City

Claudia Sheinbaum was born into a family of scientists with Jewish heritage, fostering her early interest in science and social responsibility.

1989: Physics Degree from UNAM

Sheinbaum graduated with a physics degree, sparking her interest in energy science and sustainability.

1995: Ph.D. in Energy Engineering

Completed her doctorate at UNAM, focusing on energy efficiency in Mexican buildings.

2000: Joins AMLO’s Team

Became Secretary of the Environment under Andrés Manuel López Obrador in Mexico City, marking her political debut.

Political Career: Rising to National Prominence

A Journey Rooted in Science and Service

Claudia Sheinbaum’s political career began in 2000 when she was appointed Secretary of the Environment for Mexico City under Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), then the city’s mayor. Mexico City, then, choked under a blanket of severe air pollution, a dubious distinction among global capitals. Sheinbaum spearheaded initiatives like the Metrobús system, a bus rapid transit network that reduced emissions by providing an efficient alternative to private vehicles. She also introduced air quality monitoring programs, laying the groundwork for long-term environmental improvements.

In 2014, Sheinbaum joined AMLO in founding the Morena party, a left-wing movement aimed at combating corruption and inequality. Her first major elected role came in 2015 as mayor of Tlalpan, a borough in Mexico City with a population of over 600,000. Her administration focused on community development, launching programs to support single mothers, improve access to education, and enhance public safety. However, her tenure faced a significant challenge in 2017 when an earthquake caused a school in Tlalpan to collapse, killing 19 children. Critics accused her of inadequate oversight, though she responded by implementing stricter building codes and providing aid to affected families.

In 2018, Sheinbaum made history by becoming the first elected female Head of Government of Mexico City, serving until 2023. Her administration prioritized sustainability and social equity, introducing solar-powered streetlights, expanding bike-sharing programs, and increasing funding for public education. Her efforts extended to addressing housing disparities, manifested in the construction of accessible dwellings for low-income communities. However, her term was not without controversy—the 2021 Metro Line 12 collapse, which killed 26 people, drew intense scrutiny. Investigations later revealed structural issues predating her tenure, but the incident damaged her reputation. Sheinbaum responded by allocating funds for infrastructure audits and victim compensation, demonstrating accountability.

Throughout her career, Sheinbaum has remained a steadfast ally of AMLO, embracing his “Fourth Transformation” agenda to eradicate corruption and reduce inequality. Her leadership style—combining data-driven governance with a focus on marginalized communities—positioned her as AMLO’s natural successor, setting the stage for her presidential campaign in 2024.

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2024 Election Vote Share (%)

2024 Election Victory: A Historic Mandate

Sheinbaum vs Xóchitl Gálvez: A Defining Contest

The 2024 Mexican presidential election was a landmark moment, featuring two female candidates for the first time in the nation’s history. Claudia Sheinbaum, representing Morena, faced Xóchitl Gálvez, a senator backed by a coalition of opposition parties (PAN, PRI, PRD). The race symbolized a significant step toward gender equality in Mexican politics, but it also underscored deep ideological divides. Sheinbaum campaigned on continuity, promising to expand AMLO’s social programs while addressing environmental challenges with her scientific expertise. Gálvez, a tech entrepreneur known for her outspoken style, advocated for free-market policies and criticized Morena’s governance as increasingly authoritarian.

Sheinbaum’s campaign focused on key issues like poverty reduction, climate action, and women’s rights. She pledged to continue AMLO’s cash transfer programs for the elderly and expand access to reproductive healthcare, resonating with female voters. Gálvez, meanwhile, highlighted the need for economic liberalization and stronger anti-corruption measures, appealing to urban middle-class voters. The debates were heated, with Gálvez accusing Sheinbaum of being AMLO’s “puppet,” while Sheinbaum countered by emphasizing her independent achievements in Mexico City.

A historic mandate was delivered on June 2, 2024, as Sheinbaum claimed a decisive victory, capturing an unprecedented 58-60% of the electoral vote. Gálvez garnered 28-29%, a significant gap that underscored Morena’s dominance. The Zócalo, Mexico City's central square, resonated with the jubilant cries of "¡Presidenta!" as Sheinbaum's victory was proclaimed. Her victory speech emphasized unity, sustainability, and social justice, promising to govern for all Mexicans, including those who opposed her. International observers, including the Organization of American States, praised the election’s transparency, though opposition groups alleged voter irregularities, claims that were largely unsubstantiated.

Sheinbaum’s success can be attributed to several factors: AMLO’s enduring popularity (his approval rating exceeded 60% at the end of his term), Morena’s grassroots mobilization, and her own track record in Mexico City. Her focus on gender equality and environmental issues also galvanized young and female voters, who turned out in record numbers. Her victory marked a historic milestone, not just for Mexico but for Latin America, where female heads of state remain rare.

Sheinbaum’s Vote Share in 2024

Policies & Controversies: Leading with Purpose in 2025

Climate Policies

Energy Reforms

Controversies

Sheinbaum’s Climate Policies: A Scientist’s Vision for 2025

Claudia Sheinbaum’s background as a climate scientist has profoundly shaped her presidency, particularly her environmental policies. In 2025, her administration launched the “Green Mexico 2030” initiative, a bold plan to achieve 50% renewable energy usage by the end of the decade. This includes significant investments in solar and wind farms, particularly in regions like Oaxaca, which boasts some of the world’s best wind resources. Sheinbaum has also prioritized reforestation, with over 5 million trees planted in her first year to combat deforestation and carbon emissions.

Drawing from her experience as Head of Government of Mexico City, Sheinbaum has expanded electric bus fleets in major cities like Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Puebla, reducing urban emissions by an estimated 15%. She has also introduced tax incentives for businesses adopting green technologies, encouraging private sector participation in her sustainability agenda. However, her reliance on PEMEX, Mexico’s state-owned oil company, remains a point of contention. Critics argue that her policies fail to fully transition away from fossil fuels, a necessity for meeting global climate targets. She advocates for a phased transition, prioritizing the preservation of employment within the oil industry.

Internationally, Sheinbaum has positioned Mexico as a leader in climate discussions, preparing for a prominent role at COP30. Her administration has collaborated with Latin American neighbors like Brazil and Chile to develop regional climate strategies, focusing on shared challenges like deforestation and water scarcity. Her scientific approach to governance has earned her praise, but the challenge lies in balancing economic realities with environmental goals.

Energy Reforms: Balancing State Control and Innovation

Sheinbaum has continued AMLO’s push to strengthen state control over Mexico’s energy sector, reversing parts of the 2013 energy reform that opened the market to private investment. In 2025, her administration passed legislation prioritizing the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) in energy distribution, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign companies. This move aligns with Morena’s vision of energy sovereignty, ensuring that Mexico’s resources benefit its citizens first. At the same time, Sheinbaum has promoted renewable energy projects, such as the Isthmus of Tehuantepec wind corridor, which could power millions of homes.

The dual approach has sparked significant debate. Proponents argue that state control protects national interests, particularly in a region historically exploited by foreign corporations. However, critics, including international investors, contend that her policies stifle competition and innovation, potentially slowing Mexico’s energy transition. The U.S. and Canada have raised concerns under the USMCA trade agreement, citing potential violations due to restrictions on private energy firms. Sheinbaum has responded by emphasizing dialogue, seeking to renegotiate terms that align with her vision of energy independence.

Looking ahead, Sheinbaum aims to modernize the CFE with cleaner technologies while maintaining its dominance. Her administration has also launched training programs for workers transitioning from fossil fuel jobs to renewable sectors, addressing economic concerns. Whether this balanced approach will succeed remains to be seen, but it reflects her commitment to both sustainability and social equity.

Controversies: Navigating Challenges in 2025

Sheinbaum’s presidency has not been without controversy. One of the most contentious issues is Morena’s 2024 judicial reform, which allows judges to be elected by popular vote. Critics, including the UN Human Rights Office, warn that this undermines judicial independence, potentially allowing political influence over the courts. Sheinbaum defends the reform as a necessary step to combat corruption within the judiciary, arguing that it empowers citizens to hold judges accountable. However, the move has strained relations with opposition parties and sparked protests in Mexico City, with many fearing democratic backsliding.

Violence remains a pressing challenge. Mexico recorded over 30,000 homicides in 2024, and 2025 has seen little improvement, with cartel-related violence continuing to plague states like Michoacán and Guerrero. Sheinbaum has increased funding for the National Guard, but her strategy of “hugs, not bullets”—focusing on social programs to address the root causes of crime—has been criticized as ineffective against powerful cartels. The issue of femicides is particularly urgent, with over 3,000 women murdered in 2024. Feminist groups have demanded stronger action, including better funding for shelters and stricter enforcement of gender-based violence laws.

Economically, Sheinbaum faces challenges as well. Mexico’s GDP growth slowed to 1.5% in 2024, amid global inflation and supply chain disruptions. Her administration’s heavy investment in social programs has raised concerns about fiscal sustainability, with some economists warning of potential debt increases. Sheinbaum has promised to balance spending with economic growth, but her ability to navigate these challenges will be critical to her legacy.

Global Reactions: A World Watches Mexico in 2025

International Acclaim and Concern

Claudia Sheinbaum’s election and early presidency in 2025 have garnered significant international attention. The BBC described her as a “trailblazer for women in politics,” noting her potential to inspire female leaders across Latin America and beyond. Reuters highlighted her climate credentials, suggesting she could elevate Mexico’s role in global sustainability efforts, particularly at upcoming COP30 talks. Her scientific background has been praised as a refreshing approach to governance, especially in a region often plagued by populist rhetoric.

However, concerns persist about Morena’s growing dominance. El País warned that the judicial reform could threaten democratic institutions, drawing parallels to similar moves in countries like Venezuela. Locally, Mexico News Daily reported mixed public sentiment—many admire Sheinbaum’s progressive policies, such as her focus on renewable energy and social welfare, but others fear continued violence and economic uncertainty. Feminist movements worldwide have celebrated her win as a symbol of progress, with organizations like UN Women citing her as an example of the impact of women in leadership.

World leaders have also weighed in. U.S. President Joe Biden congratulated Sheinbaum, emphasizing the importance of collaboration on issues like migration, trade, and climate change under the USMCA framework. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for a unified North American approach to sustainability. In Latin America, leaders like Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity, seeing Sheinbaum’s presidency as a chance to strengthen regional cooperation on shared challenges like deforestation and inequality.

Future Predictions: Sheinbaum’s Vision for Mexico’s Future

Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in 2025 and Beyond

Political analyst Ana María Salazar predicts, “Sheinbaum’s presidency will be defined by her ability to address violence while advancing her climate agenda.” Her scientific background positions Mexico as a potential leader in sustainable development, especially if she leverages international partnerships at global forums like COP30. However, economic challenges loom—Mexico’s GDP growth slowed to 1.5% in 2024, and Sheinbaum must balance social spending with fiscal responsibility to avoid a debt crisis.

Sheinbaum’s focus on social programs aims to reduce inequality, a persistent issue in Mexico where 44% of the population lives in poverty. In 2025, she has expanded healthcare access through the IMSS-Bienestar program, providing free medical care to millions of uninsured citizens. Education reform is another priority—she has pledged to increase funding for STEM programs, drawing from her own background to inspire the next generation of scientists. Her administration has also launched digital literacy initiatives to bridge the urban-rural divide, ensuring that technology benefits all Mexicans.

Violence remains her biggest challenge. Experts suggest a multi-pronged approach, combining law enforcement with social investment in at-risk communities, could yield results. Sheinbaum has begun pilot programs in high-crime areas, offering job training and education to youth as alternatives to cartel recruitment. However, the scale of the problem—cartels control entire regions—requires sustained effort and international cooperation, particularly with the U.S. on issues like arms trafficking.

Sheinbaum’s foreign policy is also evolving. In 2025, she has sought to strengthen ties with Latin American neighbors, advocating for regional integration on climate and trade. Her relationship with the U.S. will be tested by issues like migration and energy disputes, but her diplomatic approach—rooted in dialogue—may foster cooperation. She has also expressed interest in deepening ties with the EU, particularly on renewable energy technology transfers. As she navigates these challenges, Sheinbaum’s legacy will depend on her ability to balance AMLO’s transformative vision with her own innovative policies, cementing her place in history as a pioneering leader.

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