Mexico’s new President, Claudia Sheinbaum, has continued the tradition set by her predecessor, ex-President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, of holding early morning news briefings from the National Palace. Known as “mañaneras” in Mexico, López Obrador’s briefings were notable for their lengthy duration, informal style, and engagements with the press, often including deep dives into historical topics. In contrast, President Sheinbaum has adopted a more concise, less confrontational approach reflecting her background as a scientist and academic.
Despite the differences in style, Sheinbaum has maintained certain elements of López Obrador’s briefings, such as a segment dedicated to addressing what she perceives as media inaccuracies about the government. She has also continued diplomatic tensions with Spain over historical grievances and downplayed violence related to drug cartels in certain regions of Mexico. By upholding these practices, she aims to emulate the success of her mentor and shape the daily news agenda, much like López Obrador did during his presidency.
Following her election victory, Sheinbaum introduced midday news briefings that are more succinct and structured, focusing on announcements and interactions with journalists. In her first press conference, she offered a government apology for a historical massacre and shared personal connections to the event, showcasing a more introspective and empathetic side to her leadership.
As a communicator, Sheinbaum presents a distinct style from López Obrador, with a more straightforward and serious tone that reflects her scientific background. Observers suggest that her challenge will be to connect with the public and maintain popularity in the same way López Obrador did, given his enduring approval ratings at the end of his term. The extent to which Sheinbaum can engage with the media and the public will likely influence her ability to control the narrative and build support during her presidency.
With differing approaches to communication and engagement, the contrast between Sheinbaum and López Obrador highlights the evolving dynamics of political leadership in Mexico. While López Obrador’s charismatic and expansive style resonated with many, Sheinbaum’s more measured approach signals a shift towards a more analytical and focused leadership style. As she navigates the challenges and expectations of her presidency, Sheinbaum’s ability to connect with the public and shape the national discourse will be closely watched and analysed.