[gatekeepr]

Having given it some thought, I think that leaks that shows disruption of democratic processes can be considered a 'worse nightmare'.

This could be election fraud, corrupt officials or some kind of shadow government.

[pvnick]

Indeed, I think you're right. So far, the only justification we have in support of these programs is to protect from terrorism. If it can be shown that they were used to subvert democracy, there would be zero support left for them.