Mexico’s Obrador retires as president with one of highest approval ratings in world

As Andrés Manuel López Obrador prepares to leave office on September 30, 2024, the Mexican president retires with one of the highest approval ratings among world leaders.

Known for his populist approach and deep connection with the Mexican public, López Obrador, or AMLO as he is commonly referred to, has secured a remarkable 59 per cent approval rating as of August 2024, according to Statista.

One of the top approval ratings globally

In global terms, López Obrador stands among the most approved leaders. Only Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with an overwhelming 72 per cent approval, and Argentina’s President Javier Milei at 62 per cent, have higher ratings.

López Obrador’s popularity remains strong despite ongoing domestic challenges, including Mexico’s struggle with violence and corruption, which have tarnished his administration’s achievements in some areas.

Why Obrador is so popular

More from World

Nepal's new PM pays homage to people died during the Gen Z protest in her first national address This Week in Explainers: How recovering from Gen-Z protests is a Himalayan task for Nepal

Throughout his tenure, López Obrador made significant efforts to dismantle traditional structures of Mexican governance.

He slashed presidential perks, abolished protective services for himself, and redirected resources into popular social programs, which likely contributed to his high approval.

Approval rating trackers, such as those compiled by Oraculus, show how his numbers remained relatively stable during his six-year term. AMLO maintained approval ratings that fluctuated between the mid-50s and 60s, rarely dipping lower, even as crime and economic struggles persisted.

His governance style, which frequently evoked comparisons to historical figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt, revolved around welfare programs for Mexico’s elderly and working classes, according to AP.

Impact Shorts

More Shorts

‘The cries of this widow will echo’: In first public remarks, Erika Kirk warns Charlie’s killers they’ve ‘unleashed a fire’

Trump urges Nato to back sanctions on Russia, calls for 50–100% tariffs on China

However, analysts note that his administration’s militarisation of sectors like law enforcement and infrastructure management has raised concerns about democratic oversight in the long term.

As López Obrador prepares to hand over power, his legacy, though contentious, will be measured by both his high approval ratings and the enduring impact of his political and economic reforms.

With inputs from agencies