Election fraud undermines democracy by eroding public trust in the electoral process. When citizens believe that elections are not fair, their faith in representative government diminishes. This can lead to lower voter turnout, as people feel their votes do not matter. Additionally, election fraud can facilitate the rise of illegitimate leaders, allowing individuals to manipulate power without true public support. The implications extend beyond immediate elections, potentially fostering an environment of political apathy and encouraging more severe forms of authoritarianism in the long run.