The smear campaign that transformed presidential politics began with a billiards table (opens in new tab)

Billiards is a sinful game. An indulgence of lowlifes and reckless gamblers. Everybody knew that in 1826, or they did if they read that year’s June 2 issue of the Richmond Enquirer. It was here that editor Thomas Ritchie informed his readers of how Congressman Samuel Carson took to the floor during a debate over appropriating $14,000 for furnishing the White House to denounce the president’s use of public funds to create a gambling den within its hallowed walls! To quote the gentleman from No...