Most sources agree that even if Republican leaders decide to pressure Nixon to resign, they will not publicize their efforts. After all, one of the Republican aides said, "No matter what, Nixon is a Republican and they must at least give outward indications that they are not actively seeking his removal, even if they don't voice support for him."
They also agree that Republicans and Congressmen in general would prefer Nixon's resignation to his removal from office by impeachment--if the question reaches that stage. Despite the massive public outcry for impeachment and the flooding of Congressional offices with anti-Nixon letters, few people on Capitol Hill believe they have the required votes to carry out impeachment.
Members of Congress, especially conservative Republicans, are generally reluctant to push for impeachment under almost any circumstances. Besides the fact that the proceedings would involve drawn-out, bitter debates and a tremendous shock to the entire political process, the lawmakers have to protect their own self-interest. An all-out effort to find the necessary evidence of "high crimes and misdemeanors" could end up incriminating a lot more politicians than Nixon.
Resignation, rather than impeachment, is then considered the best solution to the country's crisis. For now, much of the backroom talk among Republicans centers around the best way to approach Nixon with the request for resignation.
Republican leaders, including Scott, have sent several messages--described by some sources as ultimatums--to the president in recent weeks. So even if they won't admit it publicly, it is apparent that the GOP wants the Watergate ordeal cleared up at any cost--well before campaigns for 1974 start--even if members are forced to pressure the resignation of their standard-bearer.
Recent reports from the White House have indicated that Nixon is spending more time alone and meeting with fewer advisers and friends than ever before. This, the reporters say, is the president's choice. But if pressure for resignation continues, Nixon may have more visitors in coming weeks.
One of the Republican sources said last week, "The next step will be by the Republican leadership; if they request a meeting with the president, there's little doubt what they will want."
This Thanksgiving the president may have to concern himself with more important things than turkey dinner and football.
The announcement of the missing tapes reportedly drew a calm reaction from most members of Congress. "They've already made up their minds. Even thoughtful Republicans have given up on Nixon now."