Impact from lack of voter interest on Demo. Process?

Question

What impact might a lack of voter interest and participation have on the democratic process???

Answer 1

The smaller the voting numbers the greater the power of populist politicos who pander to the gullible.

Promises of "free" health care, hand-outs, taking from the "rich" to give to the "poor" ...  those can get a sufficient number inspired to action to overcome cooler heads and deeper thought.

Answer 2

It grinds to a halt.  Voting is the lifeblood of the "democratic process" - it cannot continue if voting ceases.