Importance of Party Elders in American Politics

Incumbent presidents historically relied on party elders for advice and guidance, even in the face of challenging decisions. Nixon, for example, listened to party elders such as Goldwater and Bush, considering their warnings about potential impeachment. Unlike some current leaders, Nixon respected the influence of party elders. This contrasts with a hypothetical scenario involving Donald Trump, who might have taken a more aggressive stance. The presence of party elders influences decision-making, as observed in discussions among Democrats who have noted the need for change in certain situations.