Flashback to November 10
American History
1986
President Ronald Reagan announces the formation of the Special Review Board looking into the Iran-Contra arms scandal
Read moreIn the late 1986, the American political scene was rocked by a major incident that would forever be remembered in history as the Iran-Contra arms scandal. One monumental event in the chronology of this scandal occurred on November 26, when then U.S. President Ronald Reagan made a critical announcement that put former Senator John Tower, former Secretary of State Edmund Muskie, and former National Security Adviser Brent Scowcroft at the forefront of the entire investigation as members of the Special Review Board. Despite the scandal’s wide reach and political implications, Reagan denied any personal involvement.
Ronald Reagan, the 40th president of the United States, took an exceptionally significant step in trying to bring the Iran-Contra scandal under control. Willing to face the pressing issue head-on, Reagan brought together a team of respected political figures known as the Special Review Board, who would take on the responsibility of examining every detail of the event. This selection wasn’t random. It showcased the involvement of individuals with a significant standing and unquestionable expertise, in the effort to bring transparency, and alleviate public concern.
The high-profile members of the board included John Tower, Edmund Muskie, and Brent Scowcroft. With Tower being a former U.S. Senator from Texas and the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Muskie having served as the Secretary of State under President Carter, and Scowcroft holding the position of former National Security Adviser, each brought important perspectives to the investigation they were tasked with.
John Tower, renowned for his work in military affairs during his time in the Senate, was an obvious choice for the Special Review Board examining an arms scandal. His deep knowledge of defense policies would be essential to unravel the many layers of this complex case.
Edmund Muskie was another key figure in the board. With his experience as Secretary of State, he had a broad understanding of America’s diplomatic ties and international obligations which were crucial as the scandal involved two other nations, Nicaragua and Iran.
The third member, Brent Scowcroft, brought to the table his expertise in National Security from his time serving under President Ford. Known for his strategic approach in handling security maneuvers, he offered a unique perspective that was beneficial in dissecting the entire operation in depth.
Together, this trio was set to look deeply into the scandal, one that involved the illegal sale of weapons to Iran, with the profits being funneled to support Nicaraguan Contras. While the move might have been seen as a rebuttal to rampant public speculation, the inclusion of these personalities indeed set the wheels of justice in motion.
Given the magnitude of the scandal, questions about Reagan’s involvement were inevitable. Interestingly, Reagan strongly denied any wrongdoing, declaring he had no personal involvement in the unfolding event. This denial can’t be understated due to the gravity of the scandal, given that it was reported during his presidency, making him a suspect in the public eye.
Despite his denial, the Iran-Contra scandal and Reagan’s response to it, continue to be a topic of debate among historians and political analysts. The announcement on November 26th, 1986, establishing the Special Review Board comprising of John Tower, Edmund Muskie, and Brent Scowcroft, marked a significant turning point in the unfolding scandal. One of the key objectives was undoubtedly to instill public confidence in the investigation, by bringing three heavyweight political figures on board, and to accentuate the administration’s dedication to uncovering the truth.
Overall, this event not just significantly impacted the Reagan administration, but also held and continues to hold enormous implications for the understanding of presidential power, executive overreach, and the checks and balances that define American politics.
We strive for accuracy. If you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us!
Contact Us