Richard Nixon's Complex Legacy Resurfaces Amid Posthumous Defense

Richard Nixon, a figure whose presidency ended in scandal, is experiencing a posthumous revival of interest among some segments of the New Right. This renewed attention prompts a re-examination of his complex legacy, balancing his political acumen and foreign policy achievements against significant domestic policy missteps and the shadow of Watergate.

The Justice Department's review into the conduct of the special prosecutor who investigated Nixon for Watergate has coincided with this resurgence. For populist supporters, Nixon is seen as a politician unbound by traditional conservative policy, a foil to left-wing radicalism, a formidable partisan, and an emblem of opposition to the Eastern establishment and liberal press. His supporters argue that he deserves more than a simple dismissal based on his resignation from the White House.

Nixon is acknowledged as a shrewd and resilient political strategist who significantly impacted mid-20th century American politics. His electoral success, including a decisive re-election victory in 1972, was built on his ability to connect with the "Silent Majority," despite his perceived lack of charisma. His deep knowledge of foreign affairs, coupled with his collaboration with Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, resulted in a nuanced foreign policy that shaped international relations.

However, his tenure is also marked by significant policy criticisms. Economically, the Nixon administration is blamed, in part, for the stagflation of the 1970s. Measures such as wage and price controls are criticized as economically unsound interventions that led to temporary price suppression followed by resurgent inflation and shortages. His administration also oversaw an expansion of federal agencies, including the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Critics point to his administration's increased regulation, expansionary monetary policy, limited efforts to reduce tax rates, and imposition of new tariffs as actions that hindered sound economic reforms, which would later be pursued by administrations like Reagan's.

In social policy, despite a tough stance on law and order, Nixon's administration is noted for expanding affirmative action, a policy seen by some as a precursor to modern diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. His foreign policy, while notable for détente with the Soviet Union and the opening to China, also faced criticism. The policy of "peace with honor" in Vietnam did not ultimately achieve its stated goals, and while the opening to China was a strategic Cold War move, its long-term consequences are viewed with concern.

The Watergate scandal remains a defining event of his presidency. While Nixon had political adversaries, as have other presidents, his administration's "grotesque mishandling" of the situation led to his downfall. The scandal and subsequent resignation are seen as having handed significant power to Democratic majorities in Congress, who enacted policies deemed damaging, and compelled Vice President Gerald Ford to pardon Nixon, which contributed to his election loss.

While acknowledging Nixon's capabilities as a political operator and his accomplishments, the analysis suggests he should not serve as a primary role model for the contemporary conservative movement, particularly if it risks repeating past policy errors and facing significant electoral defeats.