“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 [making a judgment on] the laws of his country fall in no way to his 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 [making a judgment on] the laws of his country fall in no way to his 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

Use the quotation to answer the following question:
According to the quotation, why does Stevens believe that Johnson should be removed from office? Answer in 4-5 sentences. Intended for 8th grade.

Answer 1

According to the quotation, Stevens believes that Johnson should be removed from office because he did not faithfully execute his duty to obey the Constitution and ensure that the laws were followed. Stevens argues that the chief duty of the President is to obey the commands of sovereign power and to enforce the laws of the nation. By attempting to avoid his duty and violate his official oath, Johnson was in direct violation of his responsibilities as President. Therefore, Stevens believes that Johnson should be removed from office for failing to fulfill his duty and uphold the Constitution.