Mexico’s President Sheinbaum Groped During Public Appearance
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum was groped by a man while interacting with citizens in Mexico City yesterday, sparking debate about presidential security protocols and the prevalence of sexual harassment in the country.
A video of the incident, which occurred on Tuesday, shows a visibly intoxicated man attempting to kiss President Sheinbaum on the neck and embrace her from behind. Sheinbaum removed his hands and turned to face him before a government official intervened. Sheinbaum responded with a stiff smile, saying, “Don’t worry,” as the man was led away by state police who confirmed his arrest. This incident underscores the challenges faced by women in public life and the ongoing struggle for gender equality in Mexico.
The incident has drawn strong reactions, with commentators highlighting the pervasive nature of sexual harassment. “Even if you’re the president, any guy believes he has the right to touch you,” said Catalina Ruiz-Navarro, a journalist for the feminist outlet Volcánicas. “When they ask what the patriarchy is – this is it.” The event also raises concerns about the security measures surrounding the President, as her security detail was not immediately apparent in the footage. This comes amid a recent increase in violence targeting Mexican officials; just days prior, Mayor Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez was fatally shot in Uruapan, Michoacán, after previously appealing to Sheinbaum for assistance with regional criminal groups – a situation detailed in reporting on recent political violence in Mexico.
Since taking office on October 1, Sheinbaum has continued the practice of her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, of engaging directly with the public with a relatively minimal security presence. Alejandra Escobar, editorial director of Etcétera, wrote on X that the incident should prompt a review of security protocols and a firm response: “Hopefully [the presidency will press charges], and the president will send a clear message: no man has the right to kiss or touch a woman without her consent.”
Authorities have stated they will be reviewing security procedures, and the President’s office is considering its response to the incident.
