The Rehnquist Choice

The Untold Story of the Nixon Appointment that Red

By: John W. Dean

Narrated by: Michael Rafkin

The explosive story of how William Rehnquist became a Supreme Court Justice, told by the only person who could have revealed this information—John W. Dean.

In 1971, William Rehnquist seemed the perfect choice to fill a seat on the United States Supreme Court. He was a young, well-polished lawyer who shared many of President Richard Nixon's philosophies and faced no major objections from the Senate. But in truth, the nomination was anything but straightforward. Now, for the first time, former White House counsel John Dean tells the improbable story of Rehnquist's appointment.

Dean weaves a gripping account packed with stunning new revelations: of a remarkable power play by Nixon to stack the court in his favor by forcing resignations; of Rehnquist himself, who played a role in the questionable ousting of Justice Abe Fortas; and of Nixon's failed impeachment attempt against William Douglas. In his initial confirmation hearings, Rehnquist provided outrageous and unbelievable responses to questions about his controversial activities in the '50s and '60s—yet he was confirmed with little opposition. It was only later, during his confirmation as Chief Justice, that his testimony would come under fire—raising serious questions as to whether he had perjured himself

Using newly released tapes, his own papers, and documents unearthed from the National Archives, John Dean offers readers a place in the White House inner circle, providing an unprecedented look at a government process, and a stunning expose of the man who has influenced the United States Supreme Court for the last thirty years.

Great historical account

What did you love best about The Rehnquist Choice?

This is a great account of both the Rehnquist appointment, and well as what might be called the Rehnquist compromise. Judicial appointments in the US have become so political, and since it is a life appointment, I suppose that is reasonable. Rehnquist was a surprise appointment, and became chief justice a few years later when Reagan elevated him to the top post. If you enjoy both politics, back room deals, and big egos, you will enjoy this book.

A unique peek into the first Nixon term

What makes this book most interesting is the fact that it was constructed by the use of the Nixon tapes. Rather than creating dialogue, the author literally transcribes what was said at that point in history. For a student of Nixon and/ or the Supreme Court, this is a valuable tool. It is ironic that despite Nixon's effort to build a court in his own philosophical image , that very same court eventually ordered Nixon to release the tapes that ended his presidency. It is also fascinating to find little nuggets such as Nixon's disdain for the ABA, which at one time was headed by Leon Jaworski, the Watergate special prosecutor. and, finally, Nixon's own words that a Supreme Court decision must be obeyed whether one agrees with it or not was prescient.