Skip to content

Absolutes Quote by Gerald R. Ford

“Now, therefore, I, Gerald R. Ford, President of the United States, pursuant to the pardon power conferred upon me by Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution, have granted and by these presents do grant a full, free, and absolute pardon unto Richard Nixon for all offenses against the United…” quote by Gerald R. Ford
Download Open image
“Now, therefore, I, Gerald R. Ford, President of the United States, pursuant to the pardon power conferred upon me by Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution, have granted and by these presents do grant a full, free, and absolute pardon unto Richard Nixon for all offenses against the United States which he, Richard Nixon, has committed or may have committed or taken part in during the period from January 20, 1969 through August 9, 1974.”

Gerald R. Ford

About This Quote

Source Speech: Presidential Pardon of Richard Nixon, August 9, 1974

The president used constitutional authority to fully forgive a former president for alleged crimes, ending legal proceedings against him.

In simple terms: President pardoned Nixon, ending his legal troubles.

Key Takeaway

Use executive power responsibly.

Themes

law politics leadership justice forgiveness

Mood

reflective serious

Type

historical political legal

When to use this quote

  • political crisis
  • legal closure
  • public trust
  • historical precedent

Key Concepts

constitutional authority executive clemency political accountability

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is executive clemency always just?
  • How does forgiveness impact historical legacy?
A Different Perspective

Pardons can be controversial and may affect public perception of accountability.

3.6 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Gerald R. Ford

Explore all 157 Gerald R. Ford quotes

More Absolutes quotes

Browse all 2,016 Absolutes quotes