Scandal and American Politics in the 21st Century

Description

This book examines how scandal allegations have been managed in the contemporary era in the United States and how understandings of the impact of scandal on political credibility have changed over time. It incorporates prominent scandals, at both federal and state level, in which sudden and unexpected revelations created an uncertain political environment. The primary focus is on sex scandals and how damage limitation strategies have been utilized in order to try to limit and accommodate a demise in political standing. The book considers how damage limitation strategies were utilized, the core components of each, and their impact on the political standing of the individuals involved. Rather than marking the end of a political journey, scandal increasingly appears to be an issue that can be perceived as a temporary impediment in a political career. Acknowledgments Contents About the Author 1 Introduction References 2 Scandal: The Causes, the Problems and the Outcomes Concepts of Political Scandal Media Coverage and Scandal Politics The Impact on Public Opinion The Unfolding of Scandal Conclusion References 3 Twentieth Century Issues: The Lessons of the Past Watergate Iran-Contra Sex Scandals Gary Hart The Clinton Episodes Conclusion References 4 Spitzer: The Downfall of a Governor The Backdrop The Scandal Public Address—Public Apology Resignation Legal Issues Damage Control, Image Restoration and Political Recovery Conclusion References 5 John Edwards: The Chaos of the Cover-Up John Edwards: High Standing and High Expectation The National Enquirer Fallout Conclusion References 6 Mark Sanford: Hiking in Appalachia Press Conference Political Resurrection A Bid Too Far: The Presidency 2020 Conclusion References 7 Anthony Weiner: The Perils of Social Media Anthony Weiner: Democrat Rising Star The Initial Scandal Act Two Conclusion References 8 Donald Trump: The Teflon Don Trump: At the Center of the Storm Trump and Access Hollywood Trump Defense Elite Support and Public Opinion Clinton Response Bannon and Damage Limitation Political and Social Fallout Trump and Daniels Poll Evidence Conclusion References 9 Conclusion References Index