Final answer:
The scandals during Harding's presidency decreased citizens' trust in the government, as the administration was riddled with corruption and Harding was aware yet inactive in preventing it.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scandals during Harding's presidency had a significant impact on the citizens' perspective of the government, particularly in eroding their trust.
While Harding was a popular figure and was not directly implicated, his administration was plagued with corruption and inefficiencies, and it was later revealed that he was aware of the scandals but failed to prevent them.
This included the infamous 'Ohio Gang,' who were known for their corrupt activities.
The journalistic exposure of these scandals and the resultant public debate further decreased citizens' trust in the government.