After 11 consecutive months of declining or stable approval ratings, President Sheinbaum experienced a modest increase in her approval rating in February, likely influenced by recent government actions in combating crime. The uptick in approval occurred during her 17th month in office and followed a significant operation in Jalisco aimed at capturing the notorious criminal leader El Mencho. Monthly approval ratings rose from 69% to 72%, while public support for her security initiatives saw even greater boosts, jumping 8 percentage points due to the operation.

Surveys conducted before and after the Jalisco operation indicated a favorable public response, with 82% of respondents rating the operation positively. Additionally, 81% considered it an advancement in the government's security policy, highlighting a shift in public perception amidst ongoing concerns about crime and safety. The government's proactive measures appear to have resonated with the public, suggesting that decisive actions against organized crime may yield political dividends for Sheinbaum, though it remains to be seen if this increase in support is sustainable.

This rise in approval is significant not just for its immediate political implications but also for the broader context of governance in Mexico, where public security remains a pressing issue. The operation's success can be pivotal in shaping the narrative surrounding Sheinbaum's administration and its future approach to addressing crime, potentially influencing upcoming electoral strategies and policy decisions.