Political scandals can severely impact trust in government by undermining public confidence in elected officials and institutions. When scandals arise, they often expose corruption, mismanagement, or unethical behavior, leading to widespread disillusionment among citizens. This erosion of trust can decrease political participation, as voters become cynical about their representatives' motives and capabilities. Additionally, political scandals can provoke calls for accountability and reform, but they can also lead to increased polarization and division within society, making it difficult to restore faith in governance.