Was Nixon's Impeachment Legal or Not?
Many often confuse the historical intricacies surrounding Richard Nixon's resignation with the potential consequences of an actual impeachment proceeding. Contrary to popular belief, Nixon was not actually impeached. He resigned before the process could fully unfold, offering a unique perspective on the legal and political ramifications of such an event.
Richard Nixon's Resignation vs. Impeachment
Richard Nixon was not impeached. In fact, he chose to resign from office before the House of Representatives could vote to impeach him. Given the nature of the Watergate scandal, it is highly probable that impeachment proceedings would have been inevitable. However, he chose to step down, paving the way for a more controlled transition of power and avoiding the political and legal fallout that might have ensued from a formal impeachment.
Legal Considerations of Impeachment
Impeachment is a process granted by the Constitution to the legislative branch, particularly the House of Representatives. It involves the option to bring charges against public officials such as the President, Vice President, federal judges, and other civil officers for high crimes and misdemeanors. The Senate, on the other hand, serves as the trial body and has the power to convict and remove the official from office.
The House, therefore, has almost unlimited discretion to impeach government officials. This discretion stems from the constitutional mandate to ensure that the President is held accountable for actions that violate the public trust. While the House can initiate impeachment proceedings, the final decision lies with the Senate.
The Legality of Nixon's Impeachment
Even if Nixon were to have faced impeachment and conviction, it would have been a legal impeachment process. The House would have had the constitutional authority to bring charges and initiate an impeachment trial.
A notable precedent involves Walter L. Nixon, who was impeached for lying in testimony before a federal grand jury and profiting from an oil and gas investment during his role as a judge. He was convicted by the Senate and removed from office. Nixon then sued for reinstatement, arguing that the impeachment process lacked a full Senate hearing. The Supreme Court ruled that impeachment procedures are nonjusticiable—meaning that the Senate process cannot be reviewed by the courts.
Three Presidents Impeached in U.S. History
It is relevant to mention that three other presidents, Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump, have faced impeachment proceedings but were not removed from office. Each of these instances highlights the complex and politically charged nature of the impeachment process.
Conclusion
The question of whether Nixon's potential impeachment would have been legal lies in the realm of hypothetical scenarios. Given Nixon's resignation and the constitutional framework of impeachment, it is legal for the House to consider impeachment. However, the actual process and its outcome are influenced by political realities and the discretion afforded to the legislative branch.
The Nixon impeachment case serves as a critical testament to the delicate balance between legal principles and political decisions in the United States.