Over the past three years, nearly every civil court judge in the Bronx has hired a political consulting firm directly tied to the leader of the Bronx Democratic Party.

The pattern raises concerns about a pay-to-play element within Bronx judicial elections — low-profile contests where the county political machine’s muscle can prove decisive.

Despite New York state’s immigrant-friendly reputation, the jury’s out on which role it will play. The direction it goes depends heavily on whether state lawmakers and Governor Kathy Hochul take quick action.

The lack of voter interest was especially pronounced in New York City, where turnout looks set to fall below even 2016 levels.