Richard M. Nixon's rhetorical strategies in his public statements on Watergate

Abstract

Abstract Nine rhetorical strategies in Nixon's public utterances on Watergate are identified and illustrated, and their development over time is traced through four general phases. These strategies are evaluated individually and found to be unpersuasive and often inconsistent. At times they are are unethical as well. Finally, an examination of public opinion polls reveals that his strategies failed to stem the tide of negative public opinion.