This year marks the 17th annual celebration of TPM's Golden Dukes, awarded to those who gave us new highs (lows) in the field of public betrayal, political corruption, venality and nonsense. Originally created during an era when charges of corruption were expected to cause shame and weren't worn as a badge of honor, the Golden Dukes were named after Duke Cunningham, who passed away this year at the age of 83. The former congressman – who accepted millions from defense contractors in exchange for lucrative federal government contracts and whose other scandalous misdeeds and sex parties amused us so greatly (more of the grisly details here) we decided to create a yearly tradition of saluting buffoonery in his honor – embodied the true spirit of the award. Now that American political life has been overtaken by some of the worst people in the U.S. (billionaires, oligarchs and racist extremists who love political violence literally run the government), the corruption at the core of the Golden Duke awards feels quaint.
But, as they say, the show must go on! The current crop of nominees and winners may feel no shame, but the Dukes are for posterity.
To help us select the best of the worst, hundreds of readers sent in nominations and thousands voted for their favorite freak. Thank you to all who participated!
This week on the Josh Marshall Podcast, Josh and Kate reacted in real time to the unveiling of the winners (which involved more than a few surprises and upsets). Nicole LaFond recapped the highlights here.
Also, this week is the last chance to take advantage of TPM's once-in-a-quarter-century Anniversary Sale. Until midnight tonight, you can get an annual TPM membership for just $25! | 
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