Buffoon of the Week Staff
As we wrap up another year of political chaos and absurdity, it’s time to crown the most “Radioactive” buffoon of 2024. n this year’s edition, the title of the “Radioactive” goes to people who are not just a fool in their own right. As you’ll see, the “Radioactive” buffoon brings down everyone around them—someone whose actions and decisions are so radioactive that they affect not only themselves but close associates as well.
What Makes a Buffoon “Radioactive?”
As Gene Berardelli explains in his book, Schnooks, Crooks, Liars & Scoundrels, the Radioactive is defined by the ultimate outcome of their irredeemable political legacy. Radioactive buffoons are corrupt, and even criminal. They cause such irreparable harm to their reputation, legacy and credibility, that simply invoking their name recalls the awfulness of their loathsome activity. In extreme cases, even a distant connection to a Radioactive politico can spread the toxicity to others. Think of it like a contagion—once someone is in the sphere of these radioactive figures, it’s hard to avoid getting burned.
EDITOR’S NOTE: For further discussion of other “Irredeemable” buffoons, check out our discuss of hypocrites HERE!
Honorable Mention: House Speaker Mike Johnson
While there are many contenders, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson become the center of late-year controversy.
- A Disastrous Continuing Resolution: Johnson’s introduced a bloated, 1500-page continuing resolution (CR) that included pay raises for Congress, censorship boards, and wasteful spending that the electorate rejected. The CR was so offensive that even members of his own party couldn’t support it, and the bill flopped.
- Lost the High Ground: IN pushing for such an incentive-laden bill, Johnson’s took a huge loss of credibility which led to the Republicans’ subsequent failure to pass a “Skinny” CR, as Republicans splintered further. Johnson’s inability to unite his own party is a clear signal that he does not possess the confidence of his caucus.
But Johnson’s radioactivity palls in comparison to other nominees.
The Return of Andrew Cuomo’s Radioactivity
Former N.Y. Governor Andrew Cuomo, once seen as a possible future president, made a dramatic return to the conversation of the year’s most “Radioactive.” Despite his tarnished legacy due to his mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent sexual harassment claims, Cuomo continues to make headlines for all the wrong reasons.
- China Scandal: Cuomo has found himself embroiled in yet another controversy, involving his alleged ties to China. Reports surfaced that his administration facilitated the donation of ventilators from the Chinese government during the pandemic, in exchange for political favors. This drew attention back to Cuomo’s ongoing pattern of questionable decisions and unethical behavior.
- Legal Woes: On top of this, Congress called Cuomo to task for his role in covering up deaths in New York nursing homes during the COVID-19 crisis. His past actions continue to haunt him, and now, the former governor faces potential legal consequences.
Hunter Biden: The Ultimate Radioactive Buffoon?
No year-in-review discussion of “Radioactive” buffoons would be complete without mentioning Hunter Biden. Hunter’s behavior has been under constant scrutiny for years, from his business dealings in Ukraine to his personal struggles.
- A Cloud of Scandal: Despite ongoing investigations into his finances and personal life, Hunter has remained in the public eye, often seen with his father, President Joe Biden. His presence at high-profile events, such as White House gatherings, drew criticism, as his presence among the Biden White House proved to be an ongoing liability.
- Avoiding Consequences: Hunter Biden’s situation is a classic example of how a radioactive figure can persist, unaffected by the damage their actions cause to those around them. Even after multiple investigations, including conviction of criminal charges, he continues to maintain close ties with powerful figures, raising eyebrows among both supporters and critics.
Eric Adams: The Mayor of Radioactive Scandals
Another “Radioactive” nominee is Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City. His administration has been plagued by multiple scandals, from campaign finance violations to allegations of bribery.
- Criminal Investigations: Adams’ campaign finances came under investigation in 2024, with accusations that he accepted illegal contributions from foreign donors. His close ties with corrupt individuals have raised serious questions about his leadership and integrity.
- Surrounding Scandals: Adams is not alone in his radioactive state—many of his top advisors and associates have found themselves under federal investigation. The ongoing scandals made it difficult for Adams to distance himself from the growing number of controversies surrounding his administration.
Tiffany Henyard: America’s Worst Mayor?
Tiffany Henyard, the mayor of Dalton, Illinois, also earned a place in the radioactive category this year. Henyard has been under investigation the entire year for allegedly misappropriating taxpayer funds and engaging in other unethical practices. Henyard’s actions have made her a target for both local and federal authorities. Things got so bad for the so-called “Super Mayor” that ocal Democratic Party officials refused to re-nominate her for elective office.
Who Will Be Crowned Buffoon of the Year 2024?
Whether it’s the disastrous leadership of Mike Johnson, the continuing legal battles of Andrew Cuomo, or the ongoing scandal surrounding Hunter Biden, these “Radioactive” figures have all proven that being radioactive isn’t just about making mistakes—it’s about leaving a trail of damage left in the wake of wherever you go.
But who truly deserves the crown of the most “Radioactive” buffoon? Let us know in the comments below!
