Depends on how you look at each group. You could make the argument that the Mafia is more powerful then the Cartels (family loyalty, hundreds of years of history, etc) while Cartels are basically glorified gangs that have gotten rich on drug money (basics, here, of course). Perhaps the backing of the Mafia, who has some 'connections', would ensure election as Mayor? Of course, if the Mayor was connected to a Cartel, that wouldn't look so good (hello FBI?) so maybe the Cartel has to give up some 'districts' to the Mafia (who trades in more then just Drugs) while upholding a cease-fire type of agreement? Helping each other out, in the end. "I keep your secret, you keep mine, and everybody stays happy."