Fact-Checking Misconceptions: Did Hillary Clinton Leave Watergate Early Because of Being Fired?

Recently, some individuals and groups have propagated the myth that Hilary Clinton was fired from her role during the Watergate investigation. This article aims to dispel these misconceptions and provide factual evidence based on historical records.

Was Hillary Clinton Fired from the Watergate Investigation?

No, it is a mistaken belief that Hilary Clinton was fired from her role during the Watergate investigation. The misconception stems from the assertion that she left the investigation early after the Watergate scandal. However, this is not accurate.

Role in Senate Impeachment Committee

Hilary Clinton worked as a lawyer for the Senate impeachment committee in preparation for the potential impeachment trial of then-President Richard Nixon. Her primary responsibilities included conducting extensive research and analysis essential for the committee's deliberations. Despite popular belief, she did not leave her post due to any alleged firing or personal reasons.

A key point of contention was a claim made by Clinton about Nixon's right to have an attorney present during the proceedings. Specifically, she claimed that President Johnson did not have an attorney nor did any federal judge who had been impeached. This claim was later discovered to be false by her supervisor, Jerry Zeifman.

Disbandment of the Committee and Job Hunting

When Nixon resigned, the Watergate investigation committee was disbanded, and many members, including Hillary Clinton, began to look for new employment opportunities. Jerry Zeifman, her supervisor, did not provide her with a letter of recommendation, which initially led to misunderstandings. However, this was not an act of firing.

Zeifman, who had criticized Clinton harshly in the past, was later criticized for his personal vendettas and inappropriate behavior. He publicly denigrated Clinton as an unfit and corrupt attorney. While this might have hindered her job prospects at the time, it did not constitute a formal dismissal from her position.

Clarity from Snopes

Snopes, a reputable fact-checking website, has provided a comprehensive article clarifying the situation. According to the Snopes report, there was no evidence that Clinton was fired from her role. The truth is that the investigation was winding down, and the Senate committee was disbanded. Clinton, along with others, was laid off as the investigation concluded.

One of Zeifman's claims that he would have fired her if he had the chance has been debunked. Zeifman, as it turned out, did not have the authority to dismiss her, and his statements were later found to be false.

Conclusion

Hilary Clinton's role during the Watergate investigation was a crucial period in her legal career. She did not leave or get fired due to any untoward circumstances. Her departure from the Senate committee was a result of the investigation's conclusion and the subsequent disbandment of the committee. It is important to rely on factual information and reputable sources to understand historical events accurately.