United States v. Nixon
418 U.S. 683 (1974)
📄 Read the Actual Opinion
U.S. Reports opinion (PDF) →📋 Summary of the Opinion
During the Watergate scandal, President Richard Nixon claimed executive privilege to withhold Oval Office tapes subpoenaed for use in a criminal trial. The Supreme Court unanimously ruled that while executive privilege exists, it is not absolute and cannot override the demands of due process and the fair administration of justice.
⚖️ Why It Mattered
The decision forced Nixon to hand over the tapes, directly leading to his resignation. It reaffirmed that the President is not above the law.
✅ What It Provided or Took Away
✅ Provided:
Recognition of executive privilege as a constitutional principle.
❌ Took Away:
The ability of a president to use it as an unlimited shield against judicial process.
🤔 Overreach or Proper Role?
The Court acted properly, maintaining the balance of power among branches and reinforcing the rule of law during a constitutional crisis.
💡 Plain-English Impact Today
Presidents can keep some communications private, but courts can require disclosure in criminal proceedings. Even the President must comply with the law.