Which government principle is demonstrated by the spoils system of appointing victor's supporters to office?

The spoils system exemplifies political patronage, which is a principle where political leaders appoint their supporters or allies to government positions as a reward for their loyalty and assistance. This practice is rooted in the belief that those who have helped a candidate secure victory in elections deserve to benefit from the power that comes with that success. It reflects a system where personal connections and loyalty often outweigh qualifications or merit in the appointment process.

By utilizing political patronage, officials can build a loyal base that may help them maintain political power, but it also raises concerns about the effectiveness and fairness of government appointments. Unlike meritocracy, where individuals are selected based on their skills and qualifications, or democracy, which focuses on popular vote and representation, political patronage highlights the intertwining of politics and personal loyalty over objective criteria. Transparency deals with openness in government operations, which is often undermined in patronage systems, further illustrating the unique nature of political patronage.