The city's magazine that broke the Iran contra scandal in a 1986 article was the San Jose Mercury News. This groundbreaking report revealed the covert arms deal between the United States and Iran, as well as the illegal diversion of funds to the Contras in Nicaragua.

The San Jose Mercury News article, written by investigative journalist Gary Webb, exposed the intricate web of corruption and deception that had been orchestrated by high-ranking government officials. The scandal rocked the political landscape and raised serious questions about the ethics and transparency of the Reagan administration.

Webb's article shed light on the shadowy dealings of the Iran-Contra affair, which involved the sale of weapons to Iran in exchange for the release of American hostages and the funneling of money to anti-Sandinista rebels in Nicaragua. The scandal not only tarnished the reputation of the Reagan administration, but also brought to light the dangerous consequences of operating outside the boundaries of the law.

The San Jose Mercury News' exposé of the Iran-Contra scandal sparked a national conversation about government accountability and the need for transparency in political affairs. The article prompted further investigations and inquiries into the actions of key figures involved in the scandal, leading to resignations, indictments, and convictions.

Overall, the San Jose Mercury News played a crucial role in uncovering the truth behind the Iran-Contra scandal and holding those responsible for their actions. The publication's commitment to investigative journalism and dedication to uncovering the facts helped to shed light on a dark chapter in American history.

Today, the legacy of the San Jose Mercury News' reporting on the Iran-Contra scandal serves as a reminder of the importance of a free press and the role of journalism in holding those in power accountable. The publication's fearless pursuit of the truth serves as a model for future generations of journalists and underscores the crucial role that the media plays in a democratic society.

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