It’s time for Americans to call a moratorium on the “resignation or impeachment hysteria” and give President Nixon a chance to govern with full effectiveness.
When and if the judicial process, in the multi-layer investigation now proceeding, comes up with proof of an impeachable offense, then there’ll be plenty of time for public clamor. In the meantime, the President has heavy responsibilities in leadership that deserve citizen support.
Thus far Mr. Nixon has spurned calls from many sources for his resignation, declaring he will not walk away from the job he was elected to do. If he’s innocent of wrong-doing – as he repeatedly declares he is – then he’s certainly right in standing his ground. Indeed, in this case, he has an obligation to the American people not to resign.
The most intense criticism has centered on conduct or alleged conduct related to the Watergate case. But at this moment the fact remains he hasn’t been convicted of any “high crime or misdemeanor” cited by the Constitution as grounds for impeachment. He hasn’t even been charged.
The Herald believes the President, like any other citizen, is entitled presumption of innocence until proven otherwise. This is part of our American concept of justice.
Legislative and judicial bodies are investigating whether any crime has been committed by the President… and whether impeachment grounds exist. Pending their determination, it is not for the “court of public opinion” to either convict or exonerate, as we see it. Fair comment and criticism are part of the American heritage; may this right always be preserved. But to indulge in a “get the President” pastime now is both reckless and premature.
One thing should be remembered by those raising their voices for impeachment. Presidents are not impeached simply for political folly or unproven charges. There must be solid, legal grounds confirmed in lengthy legal process.
Resignation by public pressure could be another matter. This wouldn’t necessarily require formal charges, specific grounds, investigation, or due process. We don’t think this is the kind of precedent we want to set in America. It’s present and long-range implications could be tragic.
Some critics claiming Mr. Nixon is incapable of governing now because of a “crisis of confidence” have helped to create such a situation, if it exists, by their own attacks. Demands for impeachment were even chorused during Mr. Nixon’s sensitive (and successful) negotiations to halt the Mideast fighting – which certainly leads us to question their priorities of responsibility.
We do not agree with all of Mr. Nixon’s decisions or actions; nor have we necessarily agreed with any previous president in every case. Obviously Mr. Nixon has made mistakes which have engendered much of the criticism against him.
On the other hand, he has performed brilliantly as President in some areas. He is a recognized international leader and it is doubtful if his strength and influence in foreign affairs could be equalled by men currently in line for presidential succession. Indeed in domestic affairs, those who question Mr. Nixon’s capacity to govern would be kidding themselves if they thought a potential successor could step into the job and be all things to all people.
This is a time when calm, sound thinking needs to prevail, with reliance on our cherished “due process.” It’s no time to go off half-cocked … or to let the impeachment obsession distract our leadership from important problems of the day that demand full attention.