A political cover-up occurs when government officials or organizations attempt to conceal information or actions that could be damaging to their reputation or interests. This often involves hiding evidence, misleading the public, or obstructing investigations. Cover-ups can arise from scandals, corruption, or illegal activities, and they can undermine public trust in political institutions. These actions can lead to significant consequences, including legal repercussions for those involved and a loss of credibility for the government. Historical examples of political cover-ups include the Watergate scandal in the 1970s and the Iran-Contra affair in the 1980s, both of which revealed attempts to hide controversial actions from the public.