How did the Watergate scandal affect public trust in government?

The Watergate scandal profoundly affected public trust in government institutions by exposing significant abuses of power and a lack of accountability within the highest levels of the executive branch. The revelations about illegal activities, including wiretapping and the subsequent cover-up efforts by members of the Nixon administration, led to widespread disillusionment among the American public. As more information came to light, particularly through investigative journalism, citizens began to see the government as untrustworthy and corrupt.

The scandal also prompted intense media scrutiny and led to numerous reforms intended to increase transparency and checks on governmental power. However, the immediate effect was a troubling erosion of confidence in government, particularly the presidency, which had historically been viewed as a symbol of leadership and integrity. This shift in perception has had lasting implications for American politics, contributing to a more cynical view of government institutions and the idea that they often act in their own interest rather than that of the public.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the historical outcomes of the Watergate scandal. There was no increase in trust in the presidency as many viewed Nixon's actions as a betrayal. The notion that the scandal had no effect on public trust is inconsistent with the extensive changes in public opinion surveys conducted during and after the events. While it