What became more like a club rather than a public office in Rome?

In ancient Rome, the Senate increasingly took on the characteristics of a club rather than a public office, as it became dominated by a small elite of powerful families. This shift led to a more exclusive environment where decisions were made among a select group, often prioritizing personal agendas over the public good. The Senate's authority diminished as it struggled to represent the broader population, undermining its role as a governing body. This transformation contributed to the eventual decline of the Roman Republic.