Fiasco Iran Contra: Episode 5 - All Out
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May 5, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Peter Wollison, former White House counsel, delves into the legal strategies behind the Iran-Contra scandal. Joining him is George Shultz, Reagan's Secretary of State, who openly opposed missile sales to Iran. They dissect the administration's struggle to maintain integrity sans a Watergate repeat, the complex arms trade with Iran, and the internal dissent within Reagan's team. The pressures during key press conferences and the political ramifications of their decisions are juxtaposed against modern accountability challenges, making for a riveting listen.
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Reagan's Iran Scandal Shakes Trust
- Reagan's Iran arms scandal shocked the public by contradicting his anti-terrorism policies.
- It triggered a rare loss of trust and media firestorm unlike any during his presidency.
Public Doubts Reagan's Speech
- Reagan's televised speech tried to deny arms for hostages deals but was widely seen as untruthful.
- Public skepticism grew, marking a rare moment when Reagan faced widespread disbelief.
Nixon Advises Against Cover-Up
- Pat Buchanan called Richard Nixon for advice on handling the Iran scandal.
- Nixon counseled against a cover-up, recommending transparency and admitting mistakes.