Political Machines During the Gilded Age

During the Gilded Age, a period characterized by rapid economic growth and political corruption in the United States, several federal policies and practices were controversial. One significant aspect of this era was the emergence of powerful political machines that often operated through bribery and intimidation. One of the most notorious figures of this time was William M. Tweed, who led the Tammany Hall political machine in New York City. Which of the following statements most accurately reflects the political environment during this period?