Congress

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      Jordan then turned to the specific charges against Nixon. She argued that Nixon had abused his power and obstructed justice. She also argued that he had lied to the American people and damaged the credibility of the presidency. Jordan concluded her speech by arguing that Congress had a duty to impeach Nixon. She explained that impeachment was not a political act, but a constitutional one. She also explained that impeachment was necessary to protect the system of checks and balances and to uphold the rule of law. Checks and balances Jordan mentioned the following checks and balances in her speech:

• The power of the legislative branch to impeach the president.
• The power of the president to veto legislation.
• The power of the Supreme Court to strike down laws that are unconstitutional.

Role of Congress regarding impeachment Jordan believed that Congress had a duty to impeach Nixon if he had committed "Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors." She explained that impeachment was not a political act, but a constitutional one. She also explained that impeachment was necessary to protect the system of checks and balances and to uphold the rule of law. Reasoning for Congress bringing forth the articles of impeachment Jordan argued that Congress was bringing forth the articles of impeachment because Nixon had abused his power and obstructed justice. She also argued that he had lied to the American people and damaged the credibility of the presidency. Standard used Jordan used the standard of the "rule of law" to justify Congress' decision to impeach Nixon. She explained that the rule of law means that everyone is subject to the law, including the president. She also explained that the rule of law is essential to a just and fair society. Nature of impeachment and its role in balancing the government Jordan explained that impeachment is a "political act" in the sense that it is carried out by a political body, the House of Representatives. However, she also explained that impeachment is a "constitutional act" in the sense that it is authorized by the Constitution. Jordan argued that impeachment plays an important role in balancing the government. She explained that impeachment is a way to remove a president from office if he has abused his power or committed other serious offenses. She also explained that impeachment is a way to deter future presidents from abusing their power. Conclusion Barbara Jordan's opening speech during the House Judiciary Committee's hearing to impeach Richard Nixon is considered to be one of the greatest political speeches ever made. In her speech, Jordan eloquently explained the checks and balances of the American system of government and the role of Congress in impeachment. Jordan's speech is particularly relevant today, as we face new challenges to our democracy. Her words remind us of the importance of the rule of law and the need to hold our elected officials accountable.  

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