List of federal political sex scandals in the United States
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This list contains notable sex scandals in American history involving incumbent U.S. federal elected politicians and persons appointed with the consent of the United States Senate. This list does not include politicians' sex crimes.
This list is ordered chronologically, with emphasis on modern scandals. Before the 1970s, American media did not cover political sex scandals extensively. Additionally, outing politicians has increased since 1989.
For all listed people, the scandal (or scandalous behavior) occurred while they were occupying a federal office, even if coverage was posthumous.
Definitions
This list does not cover instances or accusations of sexism, homophobia, or exhibitionism that do not include or seek sexual activity.
A scandal is "loss of or damage to reputation caused by actual, accused, or apparent violation of morality or propriety". Scandal is not the same as controversy or unpopularity. Misunderstandings, breaches of ethics, and cover-ups may result in scandals, depending on the amount of publicity generated and the seriousness of the alleged behavior.
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