Nixon by Nixon: In His Own Words

The film "Nixon by Nixon: In His Own Words" presents a candid and unfiltered look at the 37th President of the United States, Richard Nixon, through secretly recorded conversations within the White House. From 1971 to 1973, Nixon embarked on an unprecedented endeavor, capturing his private conversations on tape. What unfolds is a disturbing portrait of a man grappling with the weight of his presidency, as he tackles some of the most pressing issues of his time while making shocking remarks about various groups, including women, people of color, Jews, and the media. As the tapes begin to reveal Nixon's innermost thoughts, it becomes apparent that he is obsessed with the Vietnam War. The president frequently discusses the conflict with his advisors, expressing frustration at the ongoing bloodshed and its increasingly negative impact on his approval ratings. He confidantly remarks that the United States must stay committed to the war, despite growing public discontent. One of the most striking aspects of the conversation is Nixon's willingness to use military force to maintain U.S. interests, with little regard for the human cost. His comments demonstrate a stark disconnect between the president's lofty rhetoric and the brutal reality on the ground. The Pentagon Papers leak, which exposed the U.S. government's secret involvement in Vietnam, is another pivotal moment in the film. Nixon is overheard discussing the leak with his advisors, labeling it a "national security" crisis. He demands to know who is behind the leak and vows to take decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice. What becomes clear is Nixon's willingness to do whatever it takes to maintain his grip on power, no matter the constitutional implications or potential consequences. Nixon's conversations with his advisors on the subject of the Supreme Court appointments provide insight into his approach to governance. The president openly discusses the need for a conservative judiciary, emphasizing the importance of appointing judges who share his views. This stance has significant implications for the future of the Court, as it could have a profound impact on the interpretation of constitutional law. Beyond politics, the tapes reveal a less flattering side of Nixon, one marked by sexism, racism, and anti-Semitism. He makes disparaging remarks about women, referring to them as "ditzes" and "nags," while expressing frustration with the women's movement. His views on people of color are equally disturbing, with the president referring to African Americans as "subhuman." Nixon also harbors a deep-seated disdain for Jews, labeling them "sneaky" and "conniving." These remarks serve as a stark reminder that Nixon's views on identity and social issues were often shaped by outdated and bigoted stereotypes. The president's relationships with the media and the press are also a subject of discussion in the film. Nixon frequently expresses his disdain for the press, labeling them "enemies of the state" and "liars." He takes a particular interest in the "Saturday Night Massacre," a series of firings and resignations that were designed to bring the White House's media operations under his control. The tapes reveal Nixon's desperation to shape public opinion and manipulate the narrative through the press. One of the most striking aspects of "Nixon by Nixon: In His Own Words" is its unflinching portrayal of a president who was willing to do whatever it takes to maintain his power. The film raises questions about accountability, the role of the media in a democracy, and the dangers of unchecked executive power. As the conversations unfold, one cannot help but feel a sense of unease and discomfort, as the tapes expose a president who is willing to betray his oath of office in pursuit of his ambitions. Ultimately, the film serves as a searing indictment of Nixon's character and legacy, demonstrating a president who was driven by self-interest and a lust for power above all else. While Nixon will forever be remembered as a dominant figure in modern American history, "Nixon by Nixon: In His Own Words" paints a more nuanced and complex picture of a man who was willing to do whatever it takes to hold onto his position, no matter the cost to his country or his fellow human beings.