Question

Which of the following statements best summarizes a viewpoint that many U.S. citizens developed as a result of the Watergate scandal? A. "The war in Vietnam is being fought under false pretenses and must end immediately." B. "It is impossible to trust a government official to be honest with the American people." C. "The U.S. government has done far too little to prevent the spread of Communism." D. "It is unfair for American schools and businesses to be segregated based on race."

Answer 1

The correct answer is B) It is impossible to trust a government official to be honest with the American people.

This was the sentiment felt by many American citizens after the investigation into president Richard Nixon and the Watergate scandal. The Watergate scandal revolved around a group of individuals associated with Richard Nixon breaking into the Democratic National Headquarters at the Watergate complex. These individuals were trying to steal information about the Democrats campaign strategy in order to help Nixon win the presidency.

Ultimately, Nixon lied about his knowledge of this break-in and tried to cover up information so that it did not get out into the public. This caused a huge mistrust of the federal government.