LOST VEGAS: Uncovering the Hidden Motive Behind John F. Kennedy’s 1960 Visit |

Published on: October 4, 2024, 09:00h.

Last updated on: October 4, 2024, 09:01h.

Las Vegas experienced significant changes when John F. Kennedy made his first visit in February 1960. Back then, the Chicago mob controlled most of the casinos, and entertainers like Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack were closely associated with casino bosses.

John F. Kennedy and his brother-in-law, Rat Pack member Peter Lawford, pose for a publicity photo outside the Sands Hotel in February 1960. (Image: UNLV Special Collections)

While major casino operators had supported Kennedy’s presidential campaign, his visit to the Sands Hotel was not for political reasons but for personal indulgence.

According to Ed Walters, a former mob associate and casino manager at the Sands, Kennedy’s discreet visit was motivated by desires of a more intimate nature.

Despite the affair with Judith Campbell, the mafia, Sinatra, and Kennedy all found benefits in their unconventional relationship.

JFK Blown Away

Judith Campbell in 1960. Later in life, she went by Exner, the surname of her second husband. (Image: Shutterstock)

Their affair continued for two more years, with Campbell acting as a messenger between Kennedy and various underworld figures.

Cupid’s Messenger

Campbell’s involvement in delivering money and messages between Kennedy and mob bosses is a lesser-known aspect of JFK history.

Her story, although deemed conspiratorial by some, gained credibility in the eyes of historians and authors after her passing.

“Lost Vegas” is an occasional Casino.org series highlighting Las Vegas’ forgotten stories. Click here to explore more entries in the series. If you have a compelling Vegas tale lost to history, contact [email protected].

Source link