Claudia Sheinbaum is set to become Mexico’s first female leader in over 200 years of independence, having won the presidency by promising continuity.

The 61-year-old former mayor of Mexico City and lifelong leftist ran a disciplined campaign, leveraging the popularity of her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, to secure her victory in Sunday’s election, according to an official quick count.

Despite her political alignment with López Obrador, Sheinbaum, who holds a Ph.D. in energy engineering, is seen as less combative and more data-driven, with a strong belief in science.

As Sheinbaum prepares to take office on October 1, Mexicans are eager to see how she will distinguish herself from her mentor.

One of her immediate challenges will be addressing Mexico’s high levels of violence, the Associated Press reported.

On the campaign trail, she committed to expanding the National Guard and continuing efforts to tackle the social issues that contribute to cartel recruitment.

Written by B.C. Begley