Master Plan The Other Watergate
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Aug 27, 2024 Dive into the fascinating untold story behind Watergate, where corporate bagmen and illegal cash flows ruled the scene. Discover how Nixon's efforts to cover corruption contradicted his own campaign finance laws. Learn about G. Gordon Liddy’s clever manipulation of campaign finances and how it shaped party practices. Uncover the role of Common Cause in fighting for transparency amidst secrecy and the significant document, 'Rosemary's Baby', revealing staggering undisclosed donations. Reflect on the aftermath that sparked a call for reform in political accountability.
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Nixon's Secret Cash
- In 1972, CREEP, Nixon's re-election campaign, received millions in secret cash donations before new disclosure laws took effect.
- This scheme, masterminded by G. Gordon Liddy, exploited a loophole in the Federal Election Campaign Act.
Common Cause vs. Nixon
- Common Cause, led by John Gardner, sued Nixon's campaign to reveal secret donors.
- Nixon, retaliating, called Gardner an "ass" and Ehrlichman publicly smeared Common Cause.
Pre-Internet Sleuthing
- Common Cause volunteers painstakingly compiled donor information using pre-internet methods.
- Their efforts exposed significant campaign finance violations by both Democrats and Republicans.