James Bennett McCord

Dr. and Mrs. James B. McCord

James Bennett McCord (1913–1990) was a central figure in the Watergate scandal, a major political scandal that occurred in the United States in the 1970s. McCord was one of the five men arrested on June 17, 1972, for breaking into the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex in Washington, D.C. His actions and subsequent revelations contributed significantly to the resignation of President Richard Nixon.

Early Life and Career

James Bennett McCord Jr. was born in 1913. Details about his early life and education are sparse, but he is known to have served in the FBI and later the CIA. His experience in intelligence and security would later play a pivotal role in the events leading up to the Watergate break-in.

Involvement in the Watergate Scandal

McCord's involvement in the Watergate scandal began when he was hired by the Committee to Re-elect the President (CRP), a fundraising organization for President Nixon's campaign. As part of the CRP's activities, McCord and four other individuals were tasked with breaking into the Democratic National Committee's headquarters to install listening devices and gather sensitive information.

The break-in was not successful, and McCord, along with the other burglars, was arrested by the police. Initially, the Nixon administration attempted to downplay the incident. However, McCord later decided to cooperate with the investigators, revealing that high-level officials in the Nixon administration had ordered the break-in and had subsequently attempted to cover it up.

Later Life

After the Watergate scandal, McCord's life remained largely out of the public eye. He served a short prison sentence for his role in the break-in and conspiracy. Following his release, he lived a relatively private life until his death in 1990.

Legacy

James McCord's actions and the subsequent investigation into the Watergate scandal had a profound impact on American politics. The scandal led to widespread distrust in political figures and prompted significant reforms designed to increase transparency and reduce corruption in politics. McCord's decision to come forward and testify about the involvement of Nixon's administration in the Watergate break-in was a turning point in the investigation, ultimately leading to Nixon's resignation.

See Also

• Watergate scandal
• Richard Nixon
• Democratic National Committee
• Committee to Re-elect the President