Bag Man
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Bag Man by Yarwitz & Maddow | One Minute Summary

Quick Notes

Recall the forgotten tale of Spiro Agnew, the once-obscure vice president under Nixon, in “Bag Man” by Michael Yarwitz & Rachel Maddow. Go into Agnew’s rise marked by racism and corruption, as revealed by prosecutors Tim Baker, Ron Liebman, Barney Skolnik, and George Beall. Explore Agnew’s shrewd defense tactics, attacking media and the Department of Justice, and his unexpected resignation amid suspicions of tax fraud. Discover the legacy of Agnew’s trial, influencing the legal landscape of indicting sitting presidents. This riveting one-minute summary unveils a dark chapter in U.S. history, exposing a corrupt leader’s desperate attempts to cling to power.


In the annals of American history, Spiro Agnew stands as an often-overlooked figure whose influence on the political landscape is both profound and unsettling. As Richard Nixon’s vice president, Agnew, a former governor of Maryland, initially drew little attention. However, his ascent to the upper echelons of American politics was marked by racism and corruption. Despite being democratically elected, Agnew’s dark legacy left enduring marks on the Republican Party, the American government, and the office he held. The Watergate scandal unfolded in Washington, D.C., but a parallel investigation took place in Maryland, revealing Agnew’s deep-seated corruption. Federal prosecutors Tim Baker, Ron Liebman, Barney Skolnik, and George Beall meticulously uncovered Agnew’s financial misdeeds during his time as Baltimore County executive.

The relentless pursuit of justice exposed Agnew’s illicit practices and showcased the prosecutors’ determination to hold a high-ranking official accountable for their actions. This chapter in American history sheds light on the pervasiveness of corruption even within the highest echelons of government. Facing allegations of bribery, extortion, and tax fraud, Agnew employed a strategic defense, oscillating between denial and attacking his accusers. Despite the mounting evidence against him, Agnew’s ability to rally public support was remarkable. His eventual resignation, however, marked a turning point in U.S. politics, as he became the first vice president to resign in disgrace. Agnew’s claims of fearing for his life added a layer of intrigue to his departure, hinting at a complex web of motivations. The legacy of Agnew’s trial resonates in ongoing legal discussions about indicting sitting presidents, highlighting the enduring impact of a corrupt occupant of the White House.

Following his resignation, Agnew sought financial opportunities and controversial connections, revealing a continued pursuit of personal gain. His outreach to the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, seeking support against American Jews, paints a disturbing picture of Agnew’s post-political endeavors. The author aptly characterizes Agnew’s tale as that of a corrupt leader discovered by his own Justice Department, who clings to power by exploiting the privileges of his office. The enduring repercussions of Agnew’s actions persist in the collective memory, serving as a cautionary tale about the unchecked power wielded by those in the highest echelons of government.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What was Agnew’s defense strategy when facing allegations of bribery, extortion, and tax fraud?

Facing allegations of bribery, extortion, and tax fraud, Spiro Agnew adopted a multifaceted defense strategy. Initially denying any wrongdoing, he launched an aggressive counterattack, labeling the accusations as false, scurrilous, and malicious. Realizing that an offensive stance could be more effective, Agnew held a press conference to condemn the Department of Justice, portraying himself as a victim of a conspiracy. This strategy aimed to discredit the prosecutors, portray the charges as politically motivated and rally public support. Despite mounting evidence, Agnew managed to deflect attention from the substance of the allegations, creating a narrative that resonated with a segment of the population and allowed him to maintain a semblance of political support.

Why did Spiro Agnew eventually resign as vice president, and what reasons did he cite for his resignation?

Spiro Agnew’s resignation as vice president in 1973 stemmed from a culmination of factors, including the mounting legal troubles he faced. Agnew, initially defiant, eventually cited fear for his life as a pivotal reason for resigning. He claimed that the scandal had brought shame to an already fragile White House, suggesting that the CIA might orchestrate his elimination if he refused to resign. Despite these claims being later revealed as unfounded, Agnew’s narrative served as a face-saving explanation, diverting attention from the imminent legal consequences and the secret IRS investigation into tax fraud that threatened to expose further damning details about his financial improprieties.

What is Spiro Agnew’s post-resignation legacy, and how did he attempt to rebuild his life?

Spiro Agnew’s post-resignation legacy is marked by attempts to rebuild his life through various ventures, though tainted by controversy. Seeking financial opportunities, Agnew engaged in business ventures and sought connections with the crown prince of Saudi Arabia in 1980. Notably, he asked for financial support to build a movement against American Jews, reflecting a controversial and divisive pursuit. The author characterizes Agnew as a thoroughly corrupt figure whose crimes were uncovered by his own Justice Department. Agnew’s post-resignation endeavors depict a tarnished legacy, showcasing the challenges and controversies faced by public figures seeking redemption after political disgrace.

What role did racism and corruption play in Spiro Agnew’s political career and downfall?

Racism and corruption played pivotal roles in Spiro Agnew’s political career and ultimate downfall. Agnew’s racist remarks, including derogatory terms and deeply entrenched biases, showcased his divisive stance. His involvement in corruption scandals, particularly during his tenure as Baltimore County executive and governor of Maryland, revealed a pattern of financial improprieties. Federal prosecutors exposed Agnew’s acceptance of kickbacks and involvement in bribery, leading to intensified suspicions. The combination of racial insensitivity and corruption eroded public trust and tarnished his image. As legal investigations intensified, Agnew’s defense strategy of attacking the press and portraying himself as a victim ultimately failed, leading to his historic resignation as vice president in disgrace

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