By Aleksey Bashtavenko

Academic Composition

**A Plea for the Return of Nixonian Politics**

In an era of unprecedented polarization and declining trust in our institutions, it is imperative to revisit the virtues that once underpinned our political landscape. The legacy of Richard Nixon, despite the controversies that marked his career, offers profound lessons for today’s fractured political climate. The principles of compromise, bipartisan collaboration, respect for political opponents, perseverance, and the pursuit of America’s respectability on the global stage are as relevant now as ever.

Richard Nixon’s political career was a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of unity. As Bob Dole eloquently stated in his eulogy for Nixon: “He was devoted to his family, he loved his children and grandchildren. In the public life of America, Richard Nixon fought many battles, won some, and lost some. But he never gave up. He never quit. He never stopped striving to help make the world a better place. He lived life to the hilt.” These words capture the essence of a man who, despite his setbacks, continued to fight for what he believed was best for the nation.

One of the most significant virtues of Nixonian politics was the ability to compromise. In a time when party lines are drawn with ironclad rigidity, the spirit of compromise that Nixon embodied is sorely missed. Nixon understood that effective governance required working across the aisle. His administration saw the implementation of policies that were supported by both Republicans and Democrats, including the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air Act. These achievements were not the result of partisan bickering but of genuine collaboration aimed at solving the country’s pressing problems.

As Bob Dole noted, “He redefined the role of the United States in the world and was a great architect of peace.” Nixon’s foreign policy achievements, such as the opening of diplomatic relations with China and the détente with the Soviet Union, were the product of pragmatic diplomacy and a willingness to engage with adversaries. These actions were not about conceding to the other side but about recognizing the necessity of dialogue and negotiation in achieving lasting peace and stability.

In today’s political climate, where opponents are often viewed as enemies, we can learn from Nixon’s approach to seeing our opponents as colleagues. This perspective fosters a political environment where ideas can be debated vigorously without descending into personal attacks. Nixon’s ability to respect and work with political adversaries is a virtue that can help bridge the deep divides that characterize our current political discourse. As Dole observed, “Richard Nixon was not a quitter. As he once said, ‘A man is not finished when he is defeated. He is only finished when he quits.’” This attitude of perseverance and respect is essential in addressing the complex issues we face today.

Perseverance in the face of failure is another hallmark of Nixonian politics that holds valuable lessons for contemporary leaders. Despite the Watergate scandal and his subsequent resignation, Nixon did not retreat from public life. Instead, he continued to contribute to national and international discussions through his writings and advocacy. This resilience is a reminder that setbacks and failures are not the end but an opportunity for growth and renewed effort. Bob Dole captured this sentiment well when he said, “Yes, failure can be sad, but the greatest sadness is not to have tried at all.”

Moreover, Nixon’s vision for America extended beyond its borders. He believed in restoring and maintaining the respectability of America as a global leader. His efforts in foreign policy were aimed at creating a world where America was seen as a force for peace and stability. In a time when America’s global standing is often questioned, revisiting Nixon’s commitment to international respectability can guide us towards restoring the nation’s reputation. As Dole reflected, “He endured a trial of pain and agony, as all great men must, but he never gave up. His quiet faith and conviction sustained him. For as long as he lived, he never stopped seeking the approval of history.”

The current political environment, marred by division and discord, desperately needs the virtues that Nixonian politics embodied. The ability to compromise, the willingness to collaborate across party lines, the respect for political opponents, the perseverance in the face of adversity, and the commitment to America’s global leadership are not relics of the past but essential qualities for a functional democracy.

As we navigate through these tumultuous times, let us heed the lessons from Richard Nixon’s political legacy. Let us strive to embody the spirit of compromise, to seek common ground with our political adversaries, to respect and engage with them as colleagues, and to persevere in our efforts to address the challenges facing our nation. Most importantly, let us work towards restoring the respectability of America on the global stage. As Bob Dole so poignantly reminded us, “He lived life to the hilt.” Let us live our political lives to the hilt, driven by the same dedication to making the world a better place, ensuring that the greatest sadness is indeed not having tried at all.

In the words of Richard Nixon, “We live in a time of great challenge and at a time of great opportunity, and thus we must do what America does best. We must lead.” Let us lead with the virtues of Nixonian politics, for the sake of our nation and the world.