The Daily The Impeachment Dilemma for Republicans
Oct 1, 2019
Peter Baker, Chief White House correspondent for The New York Times and author of "Impeachment: An American History," dives into the complexities of presidential impeachment. He discusses the historical context of Nixon's resignation and contrasts it with the current situation involving Trump. Baker highlights party loyalty shifts and the role of public opinion in impeachment inquiries. He also examines the strategic framing by the GOP and the implications of alleged foreign interference, all while addressing the critical importance of independent journalism in these discussions.
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Nixon's Downfall
- Nixon's impeachment stemmed from the Watergate scandal, specifically the "smoking gun tape".
- This tape revealed Nixon's direct involvement in the cover-up, leading to Republican abandonment and his resignation.
Differing Impact of "Smoking Guns"
- While Trump's call with Ukraine's president is considered incriminating by some, its impact differs from Nixon's "smoking gun".
- Republicans don't perceive Trump's actions as definitively nefarious, unlike Nixon's clear obstruction of justice.
Clinton's Defiance
- Unlike Nixon, Clinton refused to resign during his impeachment, demonstrating a different approach.
- He challenged Congress and ultimately survived the process, setting a new precedent.
