16/09/2025
In 1980 the FBI formed a fake company and attempted to bribe members of congress. Nearly 25% of those tested accepted the bribe, and were convicted.
The story refers to the FBI’s famous Abscam operation, one of the largest political corruption stings in American history. Beginning in the late 1970s and made public in 1980, the FBI created a fake company, run by undercover agents posing as wealthy Arab businessmen, offering money in exchange for political favors.
Hidden cameras recorded meetings where members of Congress and other public officials were offered bribes. To the FBI’s surprise, a significant number accepted. In total, six members of the House of Representatives and one U.S. Senator, along with several local officials, were convicted of bribery and conspiracy.
The scandal shocked the nation, as the footage showed lawmakers openly negotiating prices for their influence. It raised lasting questions about corruption, entrapment, and the balance between law enforcement tactics and ethics. While some argued the FBI had gone too far, the courts upheld the convictions, emphasizing that officials had chosen to accept the money.
Abscam remains a defining example of political scandal in U.S. history. It not only exposed corruption at high levels of government but also became a cultural touchstone, inspiring films, books, and even the 2013 Oscar-nominated movie American Hustle.
