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The Watergate investigation revealed Nixon’s direct involvement in the cover-up. Public and political pressure forced Nixon to consider resignation. -
Vice President Spiro Agnew resigned after being accused of bribery and tax evasion from his time as Maryland’s governor. This created a vacancy in the vice presidency, requiring Nixon to nominate a new VP under the 25th Amendment. -
Nixon selected Gerald Ford, the House Minority Leader, as the next Vice President. Ford was a trusted and respected figure in Congress and was seen as someone who could restore confidence in the executive branch. -
The Senate (92-3) and House (387-35) overwhelmingly approved Ford’s nomination. Ford officially became Vice President, marking the first time the 25th Amendment was used to fill a VP vacancy. -
Facing impeachment and likely removal, Nixon announced his resignation in a televised address. He became the first U.S. president to resign, leaving the presidency vacant. -
Gerald Ford was sworn in as the 38th President of the United States. Ford never ran for president or vice president—he was appointed under the 25th Amendment, making his presidency unique -
Ford granted Nixon a full and unconditional pardon for any crimes committed during his presidency.
The pardon was highly controversial, with many believing it damaged Ford’s credibility and cost him reelection in 1976. -
The pardon led to massive backlash, with accusations of a "corrupt bargain" between Nixon and Ford. Ford later testified before Congress, defending his decision. It defined Ford’s presidency, leading to distrust and contributing to his loss in the 1976 election to Jimmy Carter.