Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, leader of the National Regeneration Movement (MORENA) party, waves after giving a speech to supporters in Tlapanoloya, Mexico, January 25, 2017. REUTERS/Henry Romero/File Photo
Roger Noriega, CapX: Frustrated Mexicans are set to elect their own populist strongman
* Like the US, Mexico is about to elect a populist firebrand with no time for established institutions
* Mexicans should beware of 'AMLO' bringing in Chavez-style constitutional changes
* Lopez Obrador's antiquated policies risk worsening Mexico's crime and corruption
Today, the “problem on the United States’ southwest border” refers to an influx of illegal immigrants. Next week, that problem may be an unstable Mexico—a nation of 130 million people that on Sunday will likely elect a populist firebrand to confront rampant insecurity and corruption.
Opinion polls reflect a commanding lead by Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (“AMLO,” as the candidate is universally known). Although AMLO has been in public life for 40 years and enjoyed national prominence for nearly two decades, Mexicans are not sure whether
the maverick has matured or if he will govern as a caudillo (or “strong man”).
Critics paint AMLO as an adherent to the “21st Century Socialism” model espoused by Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez and inspired by Fidel Castro. In fact, AMLO’s core economic philosophy resembles that of president Luis Echeverria (1970-76), which places him squarely within the tradition of Mexican populism, nationalism, and caudillismo.
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WNU Editor: Andres Manuel Lopez Obrado is no Donald Trump .... and when it comes to policies, the exact opposite from what President Trump is pushing. But Mexicans are clearly upset, and they are going to elect Lopez Obrador not because they support what he wants to do, but because they despise the established political parties for what they have done to Mexico.