Read the quotation from former President Richard Nixon in defense of his actions during the Watergate scandal. Then answer the question that follows. "[W]hen the president [breaks the law] that means that it is not illegal. . . . [T]he dividing line and, just so that one does not get the impression, that a president can run amok in this country and get away with it... We also have to have in mind, that a president has to get appropriations (funding) from the Congress." President Nixon resigned from office under threat of impeachment by the legislative branch. Which important American legal principle does this situation illustrate? (1 point) Responses The president must fulfill his or her responsibility to the people no matter the consequences. The president must fulfill his or her responsibility to the people no matter the consequences. Rule of law applies to even the most powerful people in the nation's government. Rule of law applies to even the most powerful people in the nation's government. Checks and balances can be waived in emergencies but must be accounted for later. Checks and balances can be waived in emergencies but must be accounted for later. The electoral process is an adequate check on the behavior of politicians.
