Frontline Season 14 Episode 8 The Long March of Newt Gingrich

In season 14, episode 8 of Frontline, titled "The Long March of Newt Gingrich," viewers are taken on a journey through the political career of former Speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich. Through interviews with friends, family, colleagues, and political adversaries, the documentary tracks Gingrich's rise to power, his political triumphs, and his eventual downfall.

The episode begins with Gingrich's early years in politics, as a young Republican congressman from Georgia. He quickly becomes known for his combative style, ideological zeal, and unyielding partisan loyalty. The documentary explores his role in the Reagan Revolution of the 1980s, his efforts to consolidate power within the Republican Party, and his failed 1996 bid for the presidency.

From there, the episode delves deeper into Gingrich's tenure as Speaker of the House, a position he held from 1995 to 1999. It examines his confrontational approach to governance, his radical ideas for transforming government, and his battles with President Bill Clinton. The documentary also looks at some of his successes, including his role in passing welfare reform and balancing the federal budget.

But as the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Gingrich's long march to power was marked by controversy, scandal, and personal betrayal. Viewers learn about his extramarital affairs, his ethics violations, and his eventual resignation from Congress. The documentary analyzes the impact of these events on Gingrich's political career and his legacy.

Throughout "The Long March of Newt Gingrich," Frontline provides a nuanced and balanced portrayal of one of the most polarizing figures in modern American politics. It presents Gingrich as a complex and flawed individual, and explores both his strengths and weaknesses. By doing so, the episode sheds light on the political and cultural forces that shaped the conservative movement in the United States during the late 20th century.