The Watergate Scandal

• In 1972, break-in at the Democratic Party headquarters and several individuals arrested
• Journalists revealed connections between Nixon, his campaign for re-election and the burglars
• Attempts to cover it up : Nixon authorized “hush-money” payments and ordered the FBI not to investigate the crimes
• Nixon also tried to withhold evidence, but was forced by the Supreme court to release the audio recording he had 
• This constituted obstruction of justice and abuse of power
• Nixon was impeached in 1974, resigned soon after and was pardoned by the next president.