There are several reports to the effect that the MAGA movement is trying to rehabilitate Richard Nixon. Given the similarities between Trump and Nixon, that makes a certain amount of sense. After all:
- Both were the subject of impeachment proceedings;
- Both believed it was OK to use the power of the government against their enemies;
- Both hated the media;
- Both were enthusiastic cultural warriors; and
- Both lived with a chip on their shoulder, although only Nixon had good reason to do so.
But the differences are at least as significant:
- Nixon felt it was necessary to cover up his corruption and abuses of power. Trump practically flaunts them;
- Nixon never tried to overturn the result of an election by force;
- Nixon had Henry Kissinger, while Trump has Michael Flynn. Not exactly the same thing;
- Nixon actually worked with Democrats in Congress on occasion; and
- Nixon resigned, but Trump doubled down.
In addition, both had Roger Stone in common, of course. Do the similarities outweigh the differences? You decide.