Mexico has been electing its federal judges

As a result, Mexicans face the paradox that giving more power to the public may undercut their democracy.

Predictions for Morena’s success on Sunday are driven by the unusual nature of the vote.

Just roughly 20 percent of voters are expected to cast ballots, the electoral authorities say, in part because voters hardly know the candidates. Polling shows Morena is overwhelmingly popular and the opposition is frail. The government controlled the selection process for federal candidates, who are elected by voters nationally, and 19 of 32 states will also elect local candidates.

Candidates are largely barred from traditional campaigning, a policy to try to level the playing field among candidates with different campaign funds. And political operatives have been accused of handing out cheat sheets, most of which recommend candidates with known ties to Morena.

Here is more from the NYT.  Garett Jones, telephone!