In terms of executive power, we are basically back where we were in the early 1970s. It’s as if Watergate never happened. For example:
- The Administration claims that it can impose tariffs unilaterally. What is its leading precedent for this? President Nixon’s unilateral tariffs from the 1970s, which were issued before Congress enacted comprehensive tariff legislation.
- The Administration claims that it need not spend some appropriated funds. Nixon did this as well, which led to the 1974 Budget Act limiting impoundment.
- There are allegations that the Administration is harassing its political enemies by abusing the powers of federal agencies. Nixon had his “Enemies List.”
- There are concerns that the Administration is politicizing the FBI and the intelligence agencies. Ditto for Nixon.
A reboot of “All the President’s Men” would probably go something like this. Woodward and Bernstein expose the scandal. Nobody cares. The End.
Posted by Gerard Magliocca on August 25, 2025 at 08:45 AM