Peter K... I know similar things to what bobad linked to.. (thanks, bobad)

From that link:"The endless debate about whether Mr. Chávez was a dictator or democrat — he was in fact a hybrid, an elected autocrat.."
Perhaps I should have chosen 'autocrat' rather than suggesting 'dictator'.

Carter's decision that the elections were open & fair does not preclude them being manipulated to look that way. Carefully spreading money among the poor can get you elected, with no strife or complaints.