1. “There’s no need for an independent Investigation – We have everything well in hand.”

2. First Hints of Trouble
As the 1972 re-election campaign progressed, reports surfaced of violations in campaign law
CREEP
Watergate Break-in
The General Accounting Office found irregularities in campaign reports
Many called for a special investigation

4. Investigations Begin
By June 1973, the many around the country were watching the Senate Select Committee on Presidential Campaign Activities hearings on TV
On June 25, former presidential counsel John Dean began his testimony
Dean was the first to directly accuse the President of a cover-up

5. “Move over – We can’t stay in a holding pattern forever.”

6. Not the First Nixon Scandal
This was not the first time Nixon had a scandal hanging over him
Taxpayer money had been spent to improve Nixon’s home
Nixon took tax deductions for the gift of his Vice-Presidential papers
Nixon’s decision on milk price supports was basically a shakedown for campaign contributions

7. Nixon with sign:
“I am not a crook.”

8. “I Am Not A Crook”
At a press conference in November 1973, Nixon claimed to have never profited from public service
Nixon claimed any improvements to his homes were made for “security reasons”
Those included: security ice makers, security swimming pool heaters, security sofas, chairs, tables, and pillows
In 1974, Nixon repaid the government $432,787.13

10. Nixon Wiretaps His Own Office
Nixon had tape recorders installed in the Oval Office to preserve important moments in history
When the Senate Committee learned of the system, they subpoenaed the tapes
Nixon refused to turn them over

11. “Yes Mr. Jaworski. The Chief Justice did receive your petition for a decision on the president’s power to withhold evidence.”

12. Nixon vs. the Supreme Court
Nixon claimed he had “executive privilege” and did not have to turn the tapes over
The Watergate special prosecutor appealed to the Supreme Court to rule on the matter
In an 8-0 decision, the Court ordered the president to turn over the tapes

13. “un-indicted co-conspirator”
Nixon, the
“un-indicted co-conspirator”

14. Nixon Stands Alone By July 1974, Nixon stood alone
His Vice President and many of his aides had resigned or been convicted of illegal activities
Nixon was named an “un-indicted co-conspirator”
The House Judiciary Committee prepared articles of impeachment for Nixon
Nixon resigned the Presidency before he could be impeached

15. “Well, let’s go at it.”

16. Rebuilding America
Nixon’s new Vice President, Gerald Ford, takes over following Nixon’s resignation
Ford has the impossible task of restoring faith in the American political system
Ford, wanting to move forward and away from more scandal, fully pardoned Nixon