This paper explores controversial actions of the Nixon Administration. As you do, consider the controversial actions of the Nixon Administration, such as the bombing of Cambodia, the break-in to gather Daniel Ellsberg’s files from his psychiatrist’s office, the debate over the Pentagon Papers, the illegal use of campaign contributions, IRS audits, and more.

The Nixon Administration.

Reread the Chapter 11 section on Watergate. As you do, consider the controversial actions of the Nixon Administration, such as the bombing of Cambodia, the break-in to gather Daniel Ellsberg’s files from his psychiatrist’s office, the debate over the Pentagon Papers, the illegal use of campaign contributions, IRS audits, and more. Ask yourself: is any of this acceptable for a president to do? Read Excerpt on U.S. v. Nixon. As you do, ask yourself: What were the three reasons that Nixon gave for refusing to turn over the White House tapes? What do these reasons illustrate about Nixon’s understanding of the division of power within the federal government?

The Nixon Administration.

How did Nixon’s argument illustrate his ideas about the power of the presidency? What did Chief Justice Burger say about the origins of executive privilege? How does this origin justify his decision about Nixon releasing the tapes? Explain Burger’s statement, “A President and those who assist him must be free to explore alternatives in a way many would be unwilling to express except privately.” How did the court interpret executive privilege? Do you agree with this analysis that United States v. Nixon expanded the power of the presidency? Why or why not? Read Transcript excerpt from the June 23, 1972 White House tapes.

The Nixon Administration.

As you do, ask yourself: Haldeman tells Nixon, “The FBI is not under control.” Why does the FBI need to be controlled? What is Nixon’s plan for dealing with the FBI’s investigation of the Watergate break-in? What does this excerpt imply about the relationship between the FBI and the CIA? What does this tape reveal about Nixon’s view of his power as the president? Why is this tape called the “Smoking Gun” tape? Do the following after you have done the above: Write an essay of about 1,000 words (it’s okay to go over) that answers the following question(s): “In what ways does the Watergate scandal reveal the abuse of presidential power or not?

The Nixon Administration.

Do you think Nixon committed any crime?” Also consider any other examples of presidential abuse of power as well as to reference both the materials themselves and the textbook. To receive a passing grade, I expect nuanced responses that directly deal with the question and material at hand—so be sure to reference to both (a) specific information within the textbook chapter and (b) any source or sources provided in the essay prompt. https://youtu.be/tV9JT4pZH_o

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