By Sandra Romandía
In 1940, Winston Churchill assumed the leadership of the United Kingdom in the midst of the darkest of storms: the war against Nazism. His character, forged in adversity and honed by the weight of decisions, became the anchor that kept his nation afloat. Today, in a different scenario - keeping proportions - but challenging as well, Mexico faces its own abyss: the second term of Donald Trump. With his arsenal of tariffs, massive deportations and trade blackmail, the U.S. president threatens to strike at the economic and social foundations of our country. But is Claudia Sheinbaum prepared to assume the role of leader in times of crisis?
The character of a ruler is not measured in calm moments, but in storms. As Aristotle noted, virtue is not a state of repose, but a deliberate activity. Sheinbaum, an academic with a scientific background, now faces the challenge of demonstrating that her leadership is not just rhetorical, but strategic. Will she be able to maneuver between the pressure of an unpredictable neighbor and the expectations of a people who demand concrete solutions?
Donald Trump has made his priorities clear: stem the flow of fentanyl, block Chinese influence and deport thousands of migrants. Against this backdrop, Mexico has limited, but not non-existent, tools. As Gema Kloppe-Santamaria points out, trade interdependence with key states such as Texas and California offers our country negotiating levers. However, these must be used with surgical precision and a long-term vision.
The challenge is not just political, but profoundly human. What impact does the emotional toll of facing an adversary like Trump have on the mental health of our rulers? Studies such as those by Daniel Kahneman have shown how stress can cloud the judgment of even the brightest minds. In this context, it is crucial that Sheinbaum not only projects strength, but also takes care of her internal balance to make decisions that benefit the country.
Tomorrow, indeed, Claudia Sheinbaum's term in office begins. Record fentanyl seizures or strategic approaches to Canada will not be enough. It will take character to negotiate firmly, creativity to find solutions and, above all, courage to confront an adversary that does not play by rules. The character of Mexico and its president will be forged in the coming weeks. Will this be the time for Sheinbaum to show that she is not just a transition president, but a leader capable of facing the storm?

The opinions expressed are the responsibility of the authors and are absolutely independent of the position and editorial line of the company. Opinion 51.

Comments ()