The main problem today's democracies have is a lack of preparation, commitment, and performance from politicians. As you mention it, it is a fight for the win. It does not matter if I completely know or understand the rules of the game, what matters is the media campaign I can manage to run to get the position. Once in office, I can do whatever no matter what, I have the whole term until the next elections come, and no one is gonna kick me out even if I am a jerk or do not deliver my promises while in campaign.