Would Richard Nixon Have Been Impeached if He Didn't Resign?

Richard Nixon's resignation in 1974 was not a fait accompli, but rather a strategic move in response to the political and legal pressures mounting against him. Had he not resigned, would he have faced impeachment?

The Pressure to Resign

It is often stated that had Nixon not resigned, he would have faced impeachment. However, it is important to distinguish between the certainty of impeachment and the necessity of removal from office and subsequent prosecution. The weight of this pressure is significant, particularly in light of the actions of five Republican Senators led by Barry Goldwater.

The Goldwater Delegation

Shortly before the impeachment proceedings would have begun, Nixon was visited by a delegation of Republican senators, including the conservative Senator Barry Goldwater. This delegation delivered a message that further solidified Nixon's decision to resign. Goldwater and his colleagues informed Nixon that the votes in the Senate did not support his re-election after an impeachment and trial. Furthermore, they indicated that even the most conservative members of his party would vote to convict him, effectively sealing Nixon's political fate.

The Process of Impeachment

The process of impeachment consists of two stages: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House Judiciary Committee had conducted extensive hearings, and by the time Nixon resigned, they had recommended to the full House to proceed with impeachment. It was virtually certain that a majority in the House would vote for impeachment, given the Democratic majority and Nixon's lack of support among his own party.

Votes in the Senate

The removal from office would require a 2/3 vote in the Senate. Although there was virtually no doubt that the House would impeach Nixon, it was uncertain whether the Senate would have enough votes to convict. The delegation from the Senate made it clear that even steadfast Republicans were turning against Nixon due to the evidence on the White House tapes.

The Reactions of Nixon's Supporters

One of the most striking aspects of this period is the contrast between Nixon's resolute nature and the ultimate decision to resign. Unlike recent political scenarios, where even strong supporters of a president like Donald Trump changed their stance due to popular support, Nixon was willing to fight to the end. Yet, the political tide had turned, and even respected figures like Goldwater and his Senate colleagues believed Nixon would not have survived the Senate trial.

Conclusion

Richard Nixon's resignation was not just a personal decision; it was a strategic choice based on a clear understanding of the political and legal landscape. Had he not resigned, he would have faced impeachment in the House and almost certainly removal from office in the Senate. The pressure from the Republican Party, particularly the Senate delegation led by Goldwater, was significant in contributing to Nixon's decision to resign.

Key Takeaways

Rigorous hearings conducted by the House Judiciary Committee recommended impeachment. Nixon faced a near-certain impeachment in the House but an uncertain outcome in the Senate. Supporters of Nixon, including prominent Republican senators, believed he would not survive the Senate trial.

The analysis of Nixon's situation reveals the complexities and pressures that can impact political leadership during impeachment proceedings.