What is the author's perspective on the accountability of leaders in a representative democracy?

The author's perspective on the accountability of leaders in a representative democracy emphasizes the importance of leaders being responsive to their constituents and the mechanisms in place for their replacement. This view aligns with the core principles of representative democracy, where the electorate has the power to choose leaders through elections. The accountability of leaders hinges on their ability to listen to and prioritize the needs and preferences of those they represent.

In this system, if leaders fail to perform effectively or do not align with the values and interests of their constituents, the public retains the right to vote them out of office during elections. This dynamic stresses the importance of regular engagement between leaders and citizens, fostering a political environment where leaders are motivated to remain attuned to the public's demands. Thus, the idea that leaders must be responsive and can be replaced reflects the fundamental democratic principle that authority emanates from the consent of the governed.