The Gist

Iran-Contra wrote the Playbook for Presidential Lawlessness

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Apr 25, 2025
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ANECDOTE

Eugene Hassenfuss Plane Incident

  • Eugene Hassenfuss's downed plane exposed covert operations in Central America and arms dealings with Iran.
  • His parachute saved his life, but the incident eventually sparked widespread scandal.
INSIGHT

Dual Start of Iran-Contra Scheme

  • The Iran-Contra affair began simultaneously with two secret schemes: aiding Contras and selling arms to Iran.
  • Reagan prioritized objectives over legality, pushing covert operations despite Congressional bans.
INSIGHT

Disdain for Congressional Oversight

  • Key Iran-Contra figures disregarded Congressional oversight, believing they shouldn't report covert operations.
  • Leaks frustrated them, deepening mistrust toward Congress and complicating secrecy.
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