United States v. Nixon (1974)

1) Link to the Actual Opinion
Read the U.S. Reports opinion (PDF)

2) 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.

3) 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.

4) 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.

5) 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.

6) 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.

• Executive Privilege
• Separation of Powers
• Watergate
• Presidency