Each state has its own constitution, and is administered by a governor elected for 6 years and Chamber of Deputies. Elections are, however, anything but free and fair. The power of local PRI officials in all aspects of economic activity ensures a certain degree of support from voters 'repaying debts'. Fraud is also widespread. International human rights groups such as Amnesty International have documented many cases of intimidation of voters and opposition activists.
Political assassinations are frequent, torture and detention without trial commonplace.
While both oppose the government, they do so from different perspectives, and it is the local activists of the PRD who are more likely to be targeted by the army, police or private para-military groups.