Welcome to the Machine

Abstract

Chapter 1 introduces the reader to the dominant-party machines of San Luis, Argentina, and the state of Mexico (Edomex), Mexico. Through this look at the political systems of two subnational units in two distinct countries separated by thousands of miles, this chapter also introduces the reader to the principal motivation guiding the subsequent analyses: How do such dominant-party enclaves affect the political attitudes and behaviors of citizens living within them? In Argentina and Mexico, like in much of the world, there are democracies that are being dragged down by subnational dominant-party enclaves. This reality has consequences for their citizens and for broader efforts to deepen democratic rule.