Nixon’s Resignation Speech
COMM 310
October 28, 2008
Nixon’s Resignation Speech
On August 8, 1974, Richard M. Nixon, 37th President of the United States resigned from office. His resignation speech was one of the most historical speeches in history. Being popular is not a sure sign of political knowledge or success. Nixon was the first president ever to resign the office of president.
Nixon’s resignation speech was expected because the House Judiciary Committee began to consider impeachment against the President. The speech was nonetheless a somber and sad occasion. Nixon sat during behind his desk in his office during his speech. In his introduction he made it clear his decision was his own and was for the good of the country and was in the best interest of the nation. Nixon indicated he had no support from Congress. He stated he would have endured at any personal cost to himself, and his family urged him to do so, but felt the interest of the nation came before his personal considerations.
Nixon announced that Vice President Gerald Ford would be sworn in as President. He urged Americans to support President Ford; he also urged Americans to put the past behind and start the healing process of the past. He indicated he hoped his resignation would begin the healing process.
Nixon stated he regretted the actions and the wrongs he committed that led to the events that led to his decision. He was sincere and accepted responsibility of those actions. He stated he had no bitterness to those who opposed him.
Nixon’s speech included the accomplishments of his term in office. He was grateful that he was able to serve as the country’s president and was proud of his achievements the administration shared. He urged Americans to continue to work towards the goals of his administration and to continue to build on relationships with the foreign countries that were at one time our enemies. Nixon pledged that he would continue to work towards world peace...