Vice President JD Vance Says Watergate Would Be a ‘12-Hour News Story’ in Today’s Media Landscape

WASHINGTON: U.S. Vice President JD Vance has sparked political debate by arguing that the historic Watergate scandal, which led to the resignation of former President Richard Nixon, would likely receive only brief media attention if it occurred in the current news environment.

Speaking at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library in Yorba Linda while promoting his new book Communion, Vance praised Nixon and said the former president’s legacy is experiencing a renewed appreciation. He remarked that if the Watergate scandal happened today, it would be “like a 12-hour news story,” adding that he believes it would not have resulted in the downfall of a presidency.

Vance also drew parallels between Nixon and President Donald Trump, claiming that both were targeted by what he described as “deep state” institutions. He argued that the forces he believes worked against Nixon were similar to those that sought to undermine Trump during his first administration.

The vice president further noted similarities between himself and Nixon, citing their careers as young senators, bestselling authors, and vice presidents who have faced significant criticism from the media. His remarks come amid growing speculation that Vance could seek the Republican presidential nomination in 2028.

The Watergate scandal, which centered on the 1972 break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and the subsequent cover-up, ultimately led to Nixon becoming the only U.S. president to resign from office in 1974.