In the aftermath of the Watergate scandal, Congress enacted sweeping reforms to rein in presidential power and restore public trust in government. These measures included ethical safeguards, protections for federal workers, and limits on the president's unilateral authority, aiming to prevent future abuses like those seen under President Nixon.

President Trump has systematically dismantled many of these post-Watergate guardrails, firing independent watchdogs, using government agencies for personal and political gain, and blurring the lines between his business interests and presidential duties. Critics argue that these actions undermine the independent oversight and ethical standards established to protect democracy.

The resurgence of a legal philosophy favoring expansive presidential authority has further eroded congressional checks, with the Trump administration asserting broad powers to remove agency heads and direct federal operations. Even some proponents of a strong executive voice concern over the potential for unchecked power and ethical violations.

As the boundaries between personal interests and presidential responsibilities continue to blur, observers warn that the erosion of post-Watergate reforms threatens accountability and the integrity of American democracy.