Watergate provides a model case study of the interaction and powers of each of the branches of government. It also is a morality play with a sad and dramatic ending.
From Bob Woodward
It would seem that the Watergate story from beginning to end could be used as a primer on the American political system.
I suspect there have been a number of conspiracies that never were described or leaked out. But I suspect none of the magnitude and sweep of Watergate.
Suppose Watergate had not been uncovered? I'd still be on the City Desk.
The number of illegal activities were so large that one was bound to come out and lead to the uncovering of the others. Nixon was too willing to use the power of government to settle scores and get even with enemies.
Nixon's attempts to order subversion of various departments was bound to come out in some form.
Some newspapers have a hands-off policy on favored politicians. But it's generally very small newspapers or local TV stations.
If you interviewed 1,000 politicians and asked about whether the media's too soft or too hard, about 999 would say too hard.
I believe there's too little patience and context to many of the investigations I read or see on television.
I don't think there will ever be a permanent truce, but I believe the media needs to be more careful and be willing to count to 10 before rushing on the air or into print.
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