What is budd dwyer?

Budd Dwyer

R. Budd Dwyer (November 21, 1939 – January 22, 1987) was an American politician and the 30th State Treasurer of Pennsylvania.

Dwyer is most known for his highly publicized suicide during a televised press conference. He was scheduled to be sentenced on bribery-related charges stemming from a Pennsylvania state workers' compensation scandal.

• Background and Career: Dwyer served as a teacher, football coach, and eventually entered politics, serving in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Senate before becoming Pennsylvania State Treasurer.

• Bribery Charges: Dwyer was convicted of accepting a bribe in exchange for directing a $4.6 million contract to Computer Technology Associates (CTA). He maintained his innocence and claimed he was framed. This controversy was central to the events that led to his death.

• Press Conference and Suicide: On January 22, 1987, the day before his scheduled sentencing, Dwyer called a press conference. After proclaiming his innocence and reading a prepared statement, he produced a .357 Magnum revolver and fatally shot himself in front of the cameras. The press%20conference was widely broadcast, though many stations cut away before the suicide occurred.

• Aftermath: Dwyer's widow, Joanne, maintained his innocence and fought to clear his name. She received survivor benefits that would have been denied if Dwyer had been found guilty after his death. The events surrounding his death have continued to generate discussion and debate.

• Impact: Dwyer's suicide has had a lasting impact on discussions of political corruption, media ethics, and mental health. The graphic nature of the event has made it a subject of enduring interest.