MEXICAN “RIFT”? Polarization and pandemic in the era of López Obrador

Abstract

This article studies the role of Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) in Mexico and his handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated political identities. Through the analysis of the evolution of public opinion, we observe how citizens identify themselves, their own and others, assuming a recalcitrant role in for or against the president. We conclude that, although AMLO is in himself a political actor who polarizes the population between defenders and detractors, such polarization has been managed, during the coronavirus crisis, as a spearhead for non-conformist sectors (politicians, media and public opinion). Although its support is still high, the acrimonious minority increasingly welcomes its eternal enemies and contributes to absorbing those dissatisfied with his handling of the pandemic, thus inaugurating the Mexican rift.