DOJ Reviews Nixon’s Treatment Amid Claims of Government Weaponization
Justice Department examines Watergate case as it investigates potential misuse of federal power against conservatives.
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The U.S. Justice Department is conducting a review of the treatment of former President Richard Nixon, focusing on the conduct of the special prosecutor’s office during the Watergate scandal. The Wall Street Journal reported that this is a preliminary stage and does not yet constitute a full investigation.
Review Includes Former Nixon Staffer’s Presentation
The review includes a presentation by Geoff Shepard, a former Nixon staffer and author, before the Justice Department’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). The Biden administration had previously rejected a similar request from Shepard in 2022, according to a Justice Department spokesman. The spokesman noted that Shepard was invited to give a presentation to OPR, but it does not constitute an investigation.
Shepard, the author of numerous books on Watergate, confirmed the review on his website and stated that OPR was tasked with a fresh look at his allegations of wrongdoing by attorneys with the Watergate Special Prosecution Force. He met with two lawyers from OPR on September 21 and spent two hours discussing official documents he has uncovered over the past twelve years of research.
Shepard Claims Nixon Did Not Receive Due Process
Shepard argues that Nixon did not receive due process and that the prosecutors engaged in misconduct while pursuing the case. He highlighted secret meetings between prosecutors and judges and the fact that the special prosecutor’s office consisted of partisan actors opposed to Nixon. Shepard said he expects OPR to submit a report on his findings at some point.
The presentation he gave to officials was titled “Watergate as Lawfare.” He posted his outline and slides on his website. Shepard also noted that Nixon’s popularity has increased in recent years as some conservatives argue he was one of the first victims of the deep state that pursued President Donald Trump.
Political Parallels Drawn Between Nixon and Trump
Vice President JD Vance recently drew a parallel between the treatment of Nixon and Trump, suggesting that the same institutions and groups that targeted Nixon were also involved in efforts to undermine Trump. This comparison highlights the ongoing debate over the role of the federal government in political matters.
Source: Daily Wire
