What is a consequence of corruption in a democracy?

Corruption in a democracy often leads to the undermining of the legitimacy of elected officials. When corruption is prevalent, it creates an environment where the actions and decisions of those in power are called into question. Citizens may feel that their leaders are not acting in the public’s interest, but rather serving their own interests or those of specific groups. This perception can erode public confidence, as the fundamental principles of democracy rely on the belief that elected officials are accountable and operate transparently. As a result, once the integrity of these officials is compromised, the overall trust in the democratic process diminishes, leading to apathy or disengagement among the electorate, and ultimately weakening the democratic system itself.