Economic inequality can significantly affect political participation by creating barriers for marginalized groups. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds often face challenges such as limited access to education, resources, and political networks, resulting in lower engagement in civic activities. Conversely, wealthier citizens may have more opportunities to influence policy and participate in political discourse, exacerbating the divide. This disparity can lead to underrepresentation of lower-income individuals in decision-making processes, ultimately affecting the legitimacy of the political system and the responsiveness of governance to the needs of all citizens.