“When Andrew Johnson took upon himself the duties of his high office he swore to obey the constitution and take care that the laws be faithfully executed. That indeed is and has always been the chief duty of the president of the United States. The duties of legislation and adjudicating the laws of his country fall in no way to hi lot. To obey the commands of sovereign power of the nation, and to see that others should obey them, was his whole duty- a duty which he could not escape, and any attempt to do so would be in direct violation of his official oath…”

Question

“When Andrew Johnson took upon himself the duties of his high office he swore to obey the constitution and take care that the laws be faithfully executed. That indeed is and has always been the chief duty of the president of the United States. The duties of legislation and adjudicating the laws of his country fall in no way to hi lot. To obey the commands of sovereign power of the nation, and to see that others should obey them, was his whole duty- a duty which he could not escape, and any attempt to do so would be in direct violation of his official oath…”

- Thaddeus Stevens closing remarks in the impeachment trial of Andrew Johnson 1868
According to the quotations why does Steven’s believe that Johnson should be removed from office?

Answer 1

According to Thaddeus Stevens' closing remarks, he believes that Andrew Johnson should be removed from office because Johnson has failed to fulfill his chief duty as the president, which is to obey the Constitution and ensure that laws are faithfully executed. Stevens argues that the duties of legislation and adjudicating the laws do not fall under Johnson's responsibilities, but rather his duty is to obey and enforce the commands of the nation's sovereign power. Stevens implies that any attempt by Johnson to avoid or neglect this duty would be a direct violation of his official oath.