Question

what long - term effect did the watergate scandal have on the u.s. government? a. it led americans to demand transparency within the executive branch. b. it led congress to pass new laws limiting the powers of the u.s. president. c. it led to dozens of elected government officials being sentenced to prison. d. it made americans less confident and more distrustful in their government.

Explanation:

• Option A: While transparency is a concern, the long - term effect on public trust is more fundamental. The Watergate scandal's main long - term impact on the public's view of government is about trust, not just executive branch transparency demands.
• Option B: Congress did pass some laws, but the most far - reaching long - term effect on the U.S. government as a whole was on public trust.
• Option C: Not dozens of elected officials were sentenced to prison. This is an inaccurate statement.
• Option D: The Watergate scandal, which involved a cover - up and abuse of power by the executive branch, led to a significant decline in public confidence and an increase in distrust towards the U.S. government. This was a long - lasting effect on the relationship between the public and the government.

Answer:

D. It made Americans less confident and more distrustful in their government.