This list contains notable sex scandals in American history involving incumbent U.S. federal elected politicians and persons appointed with the consent of the United States Senate.
[4][disputed – discuss] This list is ordered chronologically, with emphasis on modern scandals.
This list does not cover instances or accusations of sexism, homophobia, or exhibitionism that do not include or seek sexual activity.
A scandal is "loss of or damage to reputation caused by actual, accused, or apparent violation of morality or propriety.
Misunderstandings, breaches of ethics, and cover-ups may result in scandals, depending on the amount of publicity generated and the seriousness of the alleged behavior.