Admiral told lawmakers everyone on alleged drug boat was on a list of military targets

[NotHardly]

45. Just like Joseph McCarthy

Joseph McCarthy's Claims
The Wheeling Speech
On February 9, 1950, Senator Joseph McCarthy delivered a speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, where he claimed to possess a list of 205 members of the U.S. State Department who were "known communists." This assertion marked the beginning of a significant anti-communist campaign, later termed "McCarthyism."

Impact of the Claims
McCarthy's allegations sparked widespread fear and paranoia about communist infiltration in the U.S. government. His claims resonated with the public, especially in the context of Cold War tensions, including the recent communist takeover in China and the Soviet Union's atomic bomb test.

Lack of Evidence
Despite the dramatic nature of his accusations, McCarthy failed to provide concrete evidence or the names of those he accused. His tactics included vague references and shifting numbers, which contributed to a climate of fear but ultimately lacked substantiation.

Consequences
McCarthy's campaign led to significant political and social repercussions, including the censure of McCarthy by the Senate in 1954 for his conduct. His actions had a lasting impact on American politics, leading to a broader understanding of "McCarthyism" as a term for reckless and unfounded accusations.