Fiasco: Iran-Contra – Episode 8: Pardon Me

In the season finale of Pushkin Industries' "Fiasco" series, titled "Pardon Me," host Leon Neyfakh delves into the intricate aftermath of the Iran-Contra scandal, focusing particularly on the actions of Vice President George H.W. Bush and the controversial pardons issued by President Bush following his election loss in 1992. This episode meticulously unpacks the political maneuvers, legal battles, and moral quandaries that defined one of the most tumultuous periods in recent American political history.

1. The Unraveling of George H.W. Bush’s Involvement

George H.W. Bush’s Diary: The episode begins by illuminating a crucial piece of evidence in the Iran-Contra saga: the contemporaneous diary kept by then-Vice President George H.W. Bush. Starting on November 4, 1986, Bush vowed to maintain an accurate record of his observations, intending to devote five to fifteen minutes daily to this task ([02:27]).

Contradictory Statements: Initially, Bush maintained that he was oblivious to the full details of the Iran-Contra operations, specifically the arms-for-hostages deal and the diversion of funds to the Contras. In his second diary entry, Bush acknowledged selective knowledge, stating, “…one of the few people that know fully the details” ([02:32]). However, this stance began to falter as evidence emerged suggesting his deeper involvement.

2. Media Scrutiny and the CBS Evening News Interview

CBS’s Critical Report: As Bush prepared for the 1988 Republican primary, CBS Evening News, led by Dan Rather, aired a segment that questioned Bush's prior statements about his knowledge of Iran-Contra, revealing that he had attended over fifteen meetings where arms sales were discussed ([04:12]). This report included memos that contradicted Bush's public declarations, suggesting his awareness of the Contra resupply operation ([04:42]).

Bush’s Heated Response: The episode details a pivotal moment when Bush sat for a live interview post-report. Confronted by allegations of deceit, Bush vehemently denied intentional misinformation, exclaiming, “I don't want to be argumentative. Mr. Vice President. A whole career. It's not fair to judge my whole career by a rehash on Iran” ([05:11]). This confrontation left public opinion divided, with nearly a third of Republicans beginning to suspect Bush was concealing truths about his involvement ([05:45]).

3. The Independent Counsel’s Investigation and Caspar Weinberger’s Indictment

Walsh’s Probe: Lawrence Walsh, the Independent Counsel, spearheaded an extensive investigation into Iran-Contra, focusing on high-ranking officials who may have obstructed justice. A significant breakthrough occurred when Weinberger's meticulous notes, stored in the Library of Congress, were discovered. These notes revealed internal debates and contradicted Weinberger's earlier claims of minimal involvement ([17:04]).

Indictment and Political Fallout: In June 1992, Weinberger was indicted on charges of withholding crucial notes and making false statements, signaling the Independent Counsel’s intent to hold top Reagan administration officials accountable ([22:10]). The indictment intensified political tensions, especially as the 1992 presidential election loomed. Republicans, including Senate Minority Leader Bob Dole, accused Walsh of pursuing a politically motivated "witch hunt" meant to damage Reagan and Bush's legacies ([23:14]).

4. The 1992 Presidential Campaign and the “VP Favored” Memo

Memo Revelations: The investigation took a dramatic turn when a memo documenting a 1987 phone call between Weinberger and Secretary of State George Shultz surfaced. The memo suggested that Bush had actively supported the Iran arms-for-hostages deal, directly contradicting his previous denials ([24:30]). This revelation was swiftly weaponized in the presidential campaign, with Democratic contender Bill Clinton and his running mate Al Gore leveraging the memo to question Bush’s credibility.

Bush’s Public Defense: Confronted on national platforms, including an intense appearance on Larry King Live, Bush initially attempted to deflect the allegations, asserting that the memoir was politically motivated. However, mounting evidence forced him to partially concede his prior claims, admitting, “I knew about the arms going and I supported the President” ([26:51]). Despite this, Bush struggled to regain public trust, culminating in his loss to Clinton in the November 1992 elections ([32:06]).

5. Pardons and the Final Curtain on Iran-Contra

Christmas Eve Pardons: In a controversial move shortly after his electoral defeat, President George H.W. Bush issued six pardons related to the Iran-Contra affair on Christmas Eve, including that of Caspar Weinberger. These pardons were seen by many as an attempt to "close the loop" on the scandal and protect his administration's legacy ([40:32]). Bush described the pardons as “an act of healing,” framing them as necessary to move the nation forward.

Lawrence Walsh’s Response: Walsh vehemently criticized the pardons, arguing they undermined the principle that no one is above the law. He highlighted the inconsiderate nature of the pardons, emphasizing that they prevented full disclosure and accountability. Walsh noted, “He is pardoning a person who committed the same type of misconduct that he did” ([41:38]).

Implications for Legal Accountability: The episode underscores the precarious balance between executive clemency and judicial accountability. By pardoning Weinberger and others, Bush effectively halted further legal proceedings, leaving many questions about the extent of his knowledge and involvement unanswered. This action raised significant concerns about the misuse of pardon powers to shield oneself and close investigations prematurely.

6. Legacy and Aftermath of Iran-Contra

Walsh’s Final Report: In January 1994, after seven years of investigation, Lawrence Walsh released a comprehensive 1,200-page report. He concluded that while President Reagan did not commit any crimes, his administration set the stage for the illegal activities by encouraging support for the Contras. Similarly, Bush was found not to have committed any crimes, with his diaries revealing minimal new information ([44:50]).

Enduring Controversy: Despite the official conclusions, the Iran-Contra affair left an indelible mark on American politics, shaping public distrust in government operations and highlighting the complexities of clandestine foreign policy initiatives. The episode closes by reflecting on the broader implications of political scandals and the enduring quest for transparency and accountability in governance.

Notable Quotes:

• George H.W. Bush: “This is the beginning of what I hope will be an accurate diary.” ([02:27])

• Expert/Analyst: “I don’t want to be argumentative. Mr. Vice President. A whole career. It's not fair to judge my whole career by a rehash on Iran.” ([05:11])

• Bob Dole: “They should have been closed up two or three years ago. If Congress spent $50 million in this kind of chicanery, the liberal media around this town would be investigating.” ([24:07])

• President Bush on Pardons: “He is pardoning a person who committed the same type of misconduct that he did.” ([41:44])

• Lawrence Walsh: “I think President Bush will always have to answer for his pardon. I think that was the most unjustifiable act.” ([41:44])

Conclusion

Episode 8 of "Fiasco: Iran-Contra," "Pardon Me," masterfully navigates the labyrinthine corridors of political scandal, legal intrigue, and personal accountability. Through a detailed examination of George H.W. Bush's actions, the Independent Counsel's relentless pursuit, and the contentious use of presidential pardons, Leon Neyfakh provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how the Iran-Contra affair reverberated through American politics. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate interplay between power, legality, and morality in shaping historical legacies.