Question

Why might leaders or governments want to interfere in elections? Check all that apply.

1.to avoid accountability
2.to maintain power
3.to reduce competition for power
4.to improve relations with other countries
5.to end corruption

Answer 1

Governments or leaders may interfere in elections to avoid accountability, maintain power, and reduce competition for power. Interference is typically driven by the desire to control the outcome in favor of the incumbent or allied interests, rather than genuine efforts to improve government or international relations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Leaders or governments might want to interfere in elections for several reasons. First, to avoid accountability for their actions or policies, they may manipulate elections to remain in power without facing the consequences. Second, to maintain power, they might interfere by disrupting the democratic process to ensure that they, or their allies, stay in positions of authority. Third, to reduce competition for power, by minimizing the chances of opponents gaining influence, which can be achieved through various means such as gerrymandering, electoral fraud, or voter suppression.

Improving relations with other countries is typically not a reason for interfering in one's own election; however, states might interfere in other countries' elections to support candidates that would favor their own national interests. Finally, while ending corruption could be a declared motive for electoral interference, often this claim is used as a pretext for the consolidation of power rather than a genuine effort to improve governance.

Answer 2

to avoid accountability

to maintain power

to reduce competition for power