Political scandals can significantly undermine public trust in leaders. Scandals, whether involving corruption, ethical violations, or personal misconduct, often lead to disillusionment among the electorate. When leaders are implicated, their credibility suffers, impacting their ability to govern effectively. This erosion of trust can result in lower voter turnout, skepticism towards political institutions, and increased polarization. Moreover, the long-term effects may hinder future politicians who may struggle to gain the trust necessary to enact policies. Ultimately, political scandals highlight the importance of accountability and transparency in preserving democratic integrity.