40 Years Ago Today

On this day in 1974, United States v. Nixon was decided in a unanimous 8-0 ruling against President Richard Nixon. It is considered a landmark decision and set the precedent that limited the power of the U.S. president. The decision ultimately led to the release of the Watergate tapes.

The case reached the Supreme Court on July 8. President Nixon claimed executive privilege, but the grand jury said that the President didn't have an absolute, unqualified privilege to withhold information. On July 24, the unanimous ruling was issued.

After the case was decided, Nixon resigned fifteen days later.

To read the court's opinion, click here.