In article , Stephen Harding
wrote:



This sort of character assassination in the guise of
political debate was common political currency from the
founding of the US right up to the late 1800s when electioneering
seemed to become more civil (though still filled with the
smoke filled, back room wheeling and dealing). Washington,
Adams, Jefferson and Jackson seemed especially victimized
by this sort of politically driven, savage personal attack.

Ah, but the rhetoric of the day, if carried into modern times, might be
a bit redeeming. Compare Cheney's recent anatomical comment to that
from John Randolph of Roanoke about Henry Clay: "Like a rotten mackerel
by moonlight, he shines and stinks."

Even turn-of-the-twentieth-century would do:

Speechifying Repreentative: "I'd rather be right than President!"

Speaker of the House Vinegar Joe Cannon: "You, sir, are in no danger of
ever being either."