Former first lady Margarita Zavala plans run for Mexico’s presidency in 2018

Former first lady Margarita Zavala said in a video released over the weekend that she planned to seek the nomination of the National Action Party, or PAN, in the 2018 Mexican presidential election.

Zavala is the wife of Felipe Calderon, who served as Mexico’s president from 2006 to 2012.

The former first lady posted the video Sunday on social networks, telling voters that she wanted to bridge the “enormous distance between politicians and citizens” in Mexico.

“Being reconciled with the citizens is the most important task for those of us seeking a better Mexico,” Zavala said.

The former first lady, whose decision means she will not be seeking the PAN’s leadership, said she planned to tour the country to “listen to the people” and “speak about what we want for the future.”

The 47yearold Zavala, who became involved in politics at an early age, served as a Federal District lawmaker from 1994 to 1997 and in Congress from 2003 to 2006.

Zavala set aside her political career when Calderon sought the presidency and served as chairwoman of the National System for Family Development, or SNDIF, a post traditionally held by first ladies.

She decided to return to politics after living in the United States for a while following the end of Calderon’s term in 2012.

Zavala registered as a legislative candidate for the June 7 midterm election, but the PAN’s Permanent Commission did not accept her candidacy.

The former first lady has waged a media campaign in recent months as part of her effort to win the PAN’s nomination and become Mexico’s first female president.