Political Suicide
Missteps, Peccadilloes, Bad Calls, Backroom Hijinx, Sordid Pasts, Rotten Breaks, and Just Plain Dumb Mistakes in the Annals of American Politics

Quotes

“If you need a little light relief from the current political campaign, consider this book by Erin McHugh, whose background in history and trivia serves her well here.” Washington Life

“Compulsively readable, at times hilarious, at times cringe-worthy. From prostitute dalliances to pistol duels, American politics has, as McHugh reports it, quite a colorful and bewildering history.” South Coast Today

“Those who think the current electoral season resembles a circus will enjoy this entertaining collection of incredible misdeeds by contemporary and long-gone politicos.” Publishers Weekly

“Serves up a hodgepodge of tales of less-than-bright-and-shining moments in American history…McHugh’s breezy style will appeal.” Library Journal

“Flanagan’s narration is consistent and clear, and her appropriate pace holds the listener’s attention…Each anecdote is brief and self-contained, which makes them work well for commuting or other short drives.” AudioFile

“An important, sad, and very funny book. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will understand American history in a new way.” Susan Cheever, author of Drinking in America

“A brilliant time capsule of solid proof that America has had a long history of elected officials who have been expert at sinking their own careers―in every possible way. A rollicking, jaw-dropping antidote for these ‘oh no s/he didn’t!’ times.” Jonathan Capehart, Washington Post opinion writer and MSNBC contributor

“A thoroughly captivating take on America’s rich parade of rogues, scoundrels, and buffoons…History and hijinks might be ‘political suicide,’ but Erin McHugh knows that this combo also makes for a rip-roaring read.” Janine R. Wedel, author of Unaccountable