What If? Richard Nixon Hadn't Resigned

On August 8, 1974, President Richard Nixon resigned, becoming the first US president to do so. His resignation followed the Watergate scandal, which involved a series of illegal activities linked to the White House. Nixon's actions included covering up a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and engaging in money-laundering schemes. After his resignation, Vice President Gerald Ford became president and pardoned Nixon. If Nixon hadn't resigned, he likely would have been impeached and convicted, which could have severely damaged the Republican Party's reputation and altered the political landscape.

What significant event did Richard Nixon announce on August 8, 1974?

• The end of the Vietnam War

• His resignation from the presidency

• His candidacy for a third term

• A new economic policy

What was the Watergate scandal primarily about?

• A foreign policy blunder

• A series of burglaries and cover-ups

• A financial crisis

• A military coup attempt

Who became president after Nixon's resignation?

• Jimmy Carter

• Ronald Reagan

• Lyndon B. Johnson

• Gerald Ford

What action did Gerald Ford take regarding Nixon after becoming president?

• He appointed Nixon as an advisor

• He ignored Nixon's actions

• He pardoned Nixon

• He impeached Nixon

What could have been a consequence if Nixon had not resigned?

• He would have retired peacefully

• He might have been impeached and convicted

• He would have become a Supreme Court judge

• He would have been re-elected