This book explores how public appointments are shaped by political and administrative factors, and their impact on governance, state capacity, and democratic legitimacy across Latin America. Through comparative analyses and case studies from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru, it investigates the complex interplay between political interests and meritocratic principles. The book examines how politicized appointments impact institutional performance, corruption, and societal inequality, shedding light on strategic calculations behind cabinet formation, bureaucratic recruitment, and professionalization efforts. By dissecting the tensions between politics and bureaucratic expertise, it also highlights the challenges of politicization and the possibilities of professionalization and merit-based reforms. Rich with nuanced insights, the book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to understand and enhance public sector governance, institutional reform, and democratic stability in Latin America and beyond.   Fernando Nieto-Morales is Professor of Public Administration at the Center for International Studies, El Colegio de México, Mexico. David Gómez-Álvarez is Research Professor at the Institute for Research on Accountability and Corruption Control, University of Guadalajara, Mexico. Calep Pimienta is Researcher at the Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, University of Erfurt, Germany.