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The Watergate scandal forced his resignation 50 years ago. Today, he’d probably have gotten away with it.
Fifty years ago today, Richard Nixon resigned due to the Watergate scandal. This scandal led to significant political reforms, curbing the power of government officials and increasing scrutiny over political actions.
While the reforms were initially seen as strong, they have largely fallen by the wayside. Political theater has replaced influential congressional work, and campaign-finance laws remain largely ineffective.
Unlike Nixon, Trump has faced fewer repercussions for actions that would have previously led to scandal. His presidency has seen a blurring of lines regarding ethical political conduct, with modern practice often disregarding rules that Nixon ultimately fell victim to.
The article discusses how contemporary political events reflect a shift from the reforms that came after Watergate. It highlights how political norms have deteriorated, allowing actions that would have previously been considered outrageous to become the standard.
Through a historical lens, Nixon's resignation and the subsequent reforms are juxtaposed against today's political climate. The changes in moral expectations suggest that the concerns raised during Watergate have not been adequately upheld.