From Watergate to Whitewater, US politics have had their fair share of high-profile debacles. The misdeeds of politicians often assume more importance than their achievements, they can damage or destroy careers and bring down political parties. Watergate forced the only presidential resignation in American History, the Iran-Contra affair exposed the limitations of President Reagan, and the Whitewater scandal periodically paralysed the White House and embarrassed President Clinton. This book focuses on presidential and congressional scandals of the last 25 years and offers the first sustained explanation of the reasons for them and their often dramatic consequences. Readers of this exciting and accessible book will come to understand how the American political system really works.