The Gary Hart Scandal: 1987 Denial of Affair with Donna Rice

Name: The Gary Hart Scandal: 1987 Denial of Affair with Donna Rice
Start: 1936-05-06
Location: Unspecified

The Gary Hart Affair in 1987

In 1987, U.S. Senator Gary Hart found himself at the center of a political storm when he faced allegations of infidelity involving model Donna Rice. As a potential candidate for the presidency, Hart's personal life quickly became a focal point for the media and the American public. This scandal marked a significant turning point in how politicians' private lives were scrutinized.

Gary Hart's Political Ambitions

Gary Hart, born in 1936, was a rising star in the Democratic Party. He was known for his progressive policies and vision for a new America. After announcing his candidacy for the 1988 Presidential Election, Hart's campaign initially gained considerable momentum.

Initial Reports of the Allegations

In May 1987, the Miami Herald published a story detailing claims that Hart was having an affair with Donna Rice. The report included observations of the two together on Hart's boat, named the "Monkey Business." The story included photographs that would soon go viral, revealing the intimate details of Hart's alleged relationship.

Hart's Public Denial

In response to the escalating scandal, Hart held a press conference where he vehemently denied the allegations. He challenged journalists to follow him around and catch him in the act to prove the claims were false.

Impact of the Denial on Hart's Campaign

Despite Hart's attempts to dismiss the allegations, the damage was already done. The media continued to pursue the story relentlessly, leading to rapid declines in Hart's popularity. Within weeks, Hart suspended his campaign, having been unable to recover from the fallout of the scandal.

The Media's Role in the Scandal

This event also signaled a new era in political journalism, where personal lives of candidates were no longer off-limits. The media’s pursuit of the truth would set a precedent for future campaigns, leading to increased scrutiny of politicians' private affairs.

Fun Fact

Donna Rice's Legacy

Following the scandal, Donna Rice became a prominent figure advocating for issues like education and child welfare. She used her experience to launch a career focused on social change, demonstrating how personal circumstances can sometimes lead to positive public engagement.