In this episode, we delve into the alarming intersection of politics and violence in Mexico. From September to May, a shocking 34 candidates or aspiring candidates have been assassinated across the country. Security analysts point to drug cartels as the primary culprits, using intimidation and murder to sway local elections.Cartel election violence in Mexico significantly impacts the electoral process in various detrimental ways:Intimidation and Coercion: Cartels use violence to intimidate candidates, voters, and political parties. This can force candidates to withdraw from races or alter their platforms to align with cartel interests. Voters may also be scared away from participating in elections due to threats or actual violence at polling stations.Candidate Selection and Manipulation: Cartels often support or oppose specific candidates, manipulating elections to ensure their preferred candidates win. These candidates are usually those who will turn a blind eye to cartel activities or actively support their operations once in office.Undermining Democracy: Violence and manipulation by cartels undermine the democratic process by eroding public trust in the electoral system. This can lead to lower voter turnout and a sense of disenfranchisement among the populace, weakening the overall legitimacy of the government.Political Corruption: Cartel influence fosters corruption within political institutions. Politicians supported by cartels may engage in corrupt practices to maintain cartel favor, further entrenching criminal elements within the political system.Policy Influence: Elected officials backed by cartels may prioritize policies that benefit criminal organizations, such as weakening law enforcement efforts against organized crime or facilitating drug trafficking operations, rather than addressing public needs and concerns.Increased Violence and Instability: The presence of cartel violence during elections can escalate overall violence in the country, contributing to broader social instability and insecurity. This environment can make it difficult for genuine political reform and effective governance to take place.(commercial at 7:07)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Nine deaths, two assassination attempts, and candidate's HQ ambushed by barrage of 50 bullets: Political violence reaches boiling point in Mexico ahead of elections | Daily Mail OnlineBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.