Political scandals can have a significant impact on public trust in government. When officials engage in unethical or illegal behavior, scandals can lead to widespread disillusionment among the electorate, decreasing confidence in political institutions. Scandals often overshadow legitimate policy discussions, shifting public focus toward the misdeeds of leaders. This erosion of trust can result in heightened polarization, disengagement from political processes, and increased skepticism towards government actions. Long-term consequences may include reduced voter turnout and diminished civic engagement, ultimately affecting the legitimacy of democratic governance.