Richard Nixon Watergate testimony ordered released

Gerald · 07-31-11, 08:19 AM

The secret grand jury testimony given by former US President Richard Nixon over the Watergate scandal is set to be released after more than 36 years, following an order by a federal judge.

Judge Royce Lamberth granted a request by historian Stanley Kutler to release the transcript, citing of its historical significance.

But it will not be unsealed until the government has had a chance to appeal.

The political scandal prompted Nixon to resign in 1974.

Nixon, who died 17 years ago, was the only US president to resign.

He left office amid the fallout after a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex in Washington.

Nixon testified for two days in California in June 1975, 10 months after his resignation.

Judge Lamberth ruled that the historical interest in the 297-page transcript far outweighed the need to keep the records secret.

Watergate's "significance in American history cannot be overstated," Judge Lamberth wrote.

"The disclosure of President Nixon's grand jury testimony would likely enhance the existing historical record, foster scholarly discussion and improve the public's understanding of a significant historical event," he said.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-14349727

Note: 29 July 2011 Last updated at 20:27 GMT

07-31-11, 08:19 AM	#1
Gerald SUBSIM Newsman Join Date: May 2008 Location: Close to sea Posts: 24,254 Downloads: 553 Uploads: 0	Richard Nixon Watergate testimony ordered released The secret grand jury testimony given by former US President Richard Nixon over the Watergate scandal is set to be released after more than 36 years, following an order by a federal judge. Judge Royce Lamberth granted a request by historian Stanley Kutler to release the transcript, citing of its historical significance. But it will not be unsealed until the government has had a chance to appeal. The political scandal prompted Nixon to resign in 1974. Nixon, who died 17 years ago, was the only US president to resign. He left office amid the fallout after a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex in Washington. Nixon testified for two days in California in June 1975, 10 months after his resignation. Judge Lamberth ruled that the historical interest in the 297-page transcript far outweighed the need to keep the records secret. Watergate's "significance in American history cannot be overstated," Judge Lamberth wrote. "The disclosure of President Nixon's grand jury testimony would likely enhance the existing historical record, foster scholarly discussion and improve the public's understanding of a significant historical event," he said. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-14349727 Note: 29 July 2011 Last updated at 20:27 GMT __________________ Nothing in life is to be feard,it is only to be understood. Marie Curie