Very Presidential with Ashley Flowers Warren G. Harding: The Erotic Poet
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Sep 1, 2020 Warren G. Harding's steamy secret life comes to light, featuring scandalous love letters and clandestine meetings. His presidency turns out to be rife with corruption, as the Ohio Gang manipulates politics for financial gain. From outrageous campaign bribes to a mysterious death that leaves scandals unresolved, the tale twists through blackmail, hidden affairs, and even a secret daughter. As Harding's health declines amid increasing pressure, the story culminates in a sudden, tragic end that overshadows his legacy.
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Image Over Integrity
- The campaign prioritized discretion over integrity, buying silence and exile to protect Harding's image.
- Slogans like “Less government in business and more business in government” reflected the administration's corrupt ethos.
Fall Takes Teapot Dome
- After Jake Heyman's death, Albert Fall replaced him and exploited his interior powers to transfer naval oil to the Interior Department.
- Fall acted swiftly to lease Teapot Dome to cronies, initiating the major scandal.
Justice Department As Cash Machine
- Harding's Justice Department became a profit center issuing illicit medicinal alcohol permits to bootleggers.
- Harry Daugherty, Jess Smith, and Gaston Means ran graft through the DOJ while Harding remained disengaged.