'This brilliant book offers a novel and needed theory of criminal violence that emphasizes the crucial role of politics. The authors explain why transitions from authoritarianism to democracy often lead to high levels of criminal violence, and identify the conditions for the onset and escalation of criminal wars as well as for the victimization of local authorities and politicians. The empirical chapters, which combine statistical analyses and case studies, offer compelling evidence of the effects of political change on criminal violence. At the same time, the book is a profound analysis of the devastating criminal wars that Mexico has endured over the previous decades.' Ana Arjona, Northwestern University

'Trejo and Ley have crafted a sophisticated theory that stands out for its clarity, careful construction of arguments, vast data collected, and variety of research methods employed. By focusing on the role of violent specialists and on the gray zone of criminality, Votes, Drugs, and Violence not only provides a comprehensive narrative about the tragic escalation of violence in Mexico since 2006, but also expands our understanding of how criminals and states interact.' Angélica Durán-Martínez, University of Massachusetts, Lowell

'Trejo and Ley's Votes, Drugs, and Violence provides critical new insights into the phenomenon of criminal governance. The authors offer a rich and compelling account of how interactions between criminal groups and the state promote varied patterns of violence in Mexico. The book is an essential addition to the literature on criminal violence and conflict in Latin America.' Desmond Arias, Baruch College, CUNY