How did the Watergate scandal affect the perception Americans had on government power at?

The Watergate scandal significantly eroded Americans' trust in government power, highlighting the potential for abuse and corruption at the highest levels. It exposed the vulnerabilities of democratic institutions and led to widespread skepticism about the integrity and accountability of elected officials. As a result, many citizens became more critical of government actions and demanded greater transparency and reforms to prevent similar abuses in the future. This shift fostered a culture of distrust that influenced American political discourse for decades.