What did president gerald ford do that was so controversial early in his administration?

The answer is he pardoned the former American President Richard Nixon for any crimes he may have committed in office.

In 1972, President Richard Nixon was accused of being involved in the Water Scandal and was in trouble with American justice. Two years later, he decided to resign and Gerald Ford automatically assumed the presidency. Ford immediately used his power to issue the Proclamation 4311 and pardon Nixon for any crimes he may have committed while President. He justified his decision before Congress alleging that the pardon was in the best interests of the country because a drawn-out trial would only polarize the public even more.

This decision of him was highly controversial and harshly criticized by many Americans that wanted to see Nixon brought to justice.

President Gerald Ford controversial act  in his early administration was that he pardoned Richard Nixon.

Further Explanations:

The presidency of “Gerald Ford” begun on 9th August 1974, He was chosen as the United States President after the resignation of Richard Nixon on 20th January 1977 serving for a period of 895 days. He continued as the President until his setback in  the 1976 presidential election, against the  Democrat Jimmy Carter.

Richar Nixon the ex-president was charged in 1972,  against the obstruction of justice , attempt to impede the investigation of Watergate Sandal and protect other culprits responsible for illegal activities in the scandal.  He was even charged for misusing his power of Presidency during his tenure.After presiding to his post, Ford used his presidential power and issued the Proclamation 4311 pardoning  Nixon off the charges against him. He gave justification  to the congress that pardon  will the best decision for the interests of the nation as a “drawn-out trial” would polarize the citizens even more.

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Answer Details:

Grade: High school

Subject: US History  

Chapter: Gerald Ford

Keywords:

presidency, Gerald Ford, United States, President, United States President  ,January 1977, 1976 presidential election, obstruction , justice, Watergate Sandal, Proclamation 4311, presidential power,

richard milhous nixon (january 9, 1913 – april 22, 1994) was the 37th president of the united states, serving from 1969 to 1974, when he became the only president to resign (quit). he is also known for corruption and the watergate scandal which resulted in the public losing trust in him and his resignation.