Political Scandals

Watergate

1972 scandal with the intent to re-elect President Nixon. A break-in of Democratic headquarters at the Watergate complex in Washington authorized by Nixon, the resulting coverup led to multiple Nixon operatives going to jail and Nixon resigning in disgrace before he could get impeached.

Iran-Contra Affair

During Reagan's second term, government officials sold missiles to Iran hoping it would free hostages in Lebanon. Money from the sale was used to finance anti-Communist rebels in Nicaragua. Illegal on all sides.

Whitewater

One of the scandals that got President Clinton impeached (though not convicted). Whitewater was a real estate deal that Bill and Hillary Clinton were both involved in. Opponents said the Clinton's actions were illegal or unethical or both. An Independent Counsel (Kenneth Starr - former president of Baylor University) investigated the suicide of Vincent Foster, missing files in the White House, and the relationship of Bill Clinton and intern Monica Lewinsky.

Teapot Dome Scandal

President Harding's administration was perhaps the most corrupt in American history. Secretary of the Interior Albert Fall accepted bribes from oil companies for access to government oil reserves at Teapot Dome, Wyoming. Fall became the first cabinet member to be sent to jail. Other cabinet members were also convicted of accepting bribes and using their influence to make millions.