The role of public opinion in a democracy is fundamental, as it acts as a measure of the public's views on policies, political figures, and societal issues. Elected officials and policymakers often rely on public opinion to gauge support for their decisions and programs, shaping their political actions. A well-informed public can hold leaders accountable, influencing elections and legislation. However, public opinion can be volatile and susceptible to media influence, which complicates its reliability in shaping political outcomes.