My Capitol Secrets

by Rita Jenrette

Wife of a South Carolina congressman exposes the bizarre and scandalous things that happen in Washington.

Genres: Politics

Mass Market Paperback

Published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Marwan Asmar]

Although published in 1981, this is still a good book to read on the heartaches of the American congressional system, and the dynamics of getting elected in the US political system. We get a feel of the hectic life of politicians that never seems to end, rushing from one meeting to another, and from one speaking function to the next. Its always go in American poilitcs. That is one level. At another the book is revealing for the corruption it unveils, the endless-party atmosphere that seem to be the hallmark of politicians. Were do they get the energy after long debates one can only wounder. Chasing after skirts, homo politicians looking for sex, and then the unmitigated orgies all highlighted in the book. This is plus the fact there is the wife angle, the woman how is married to the Congressman and narrates of the partying, the womanizing, drinking and eventual corruption. I must say she portrays a picture of naivete on her part, having to refuse that her husband is guilty when everyone believes so. She has to leave him in the end because of his habitual cheating, while she turns to pose for Playboy magazine, however, its a pity at the same time because for five years they also run inside the American political gambit together, hand-in-hand, while Rita, covering for her husband in hustings, speaking at meeting, speaking to the press all for the sake of the male politician.

[Jan Norton · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a personal story of the wife of a Congressman in the late 70's early 80's. The debauchery that when on at that time is shocking. I wonder what it is like now. This is a story of bribery, lying, drinking, cheating, corruption, and hypocristy.

[Teddie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pretty much as expected, basically a glorified vanity fair article but less well written. It was interesting to see how DC was in the early 80s but not necessarily something I would recommend.

[Tim Blackburn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Personal memoir of the wife of a disgraced US Representative written in 1981. Interesting read but I always wonder why an intelligent (cum laude History degree from the University of Texas) and beautiful woman puts up with a total scumbag as long as many do, but it's their life to live.