Mexico Poised to Elect First Female President in Landmark Vote

Historic election pits two women candidates against backdrop of violence and political continuity debates.

Claudia Sheinbaum and Xóchitl Gálvez are the leading candidates in Mexico's presidential race.
Sheinbaum is favored to win, aligning closely with outgoing President López Obrador's policies.
The election occurs amidst unprecedented violence against political candidates and officials.
Mexico's gender parity laws have accelerated women's political representation, unlike in the U.S.
Key issues for the new president include cartel violence, economic challenges, and U.S. relations.