American Scandal: ENCORE: Watergate | The Fifth Man | Episode 3 - Detailed Summary

Hosted by Lindsay Graham

Introduction

In the gripping third episode of the "Watergate" series from Wondery's "American Scandal," listeners delve deeper into the intricate web of deceit, political maneuvering, and journalistic tenacity that defined one of America's most infamous political scandals. This episode, titled "The Fifth Man," chronicles the relentless pursuit of truth by Washington Post reporters Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward, their interactions with pivotal figures, and the escalating tension within the Nixon administration as the Watergate investigation intensifies.

Investigating Watergate: Bernstein and Woodward's Dedication

The episode opens on September 26, 1972, with Carl Bernstein burning the midnight oil at the Washington Post newsroom. Alongside his colleague, Bob Woodward, Bernstein is tirelessly working to unravel the complexities of the Watergate scandal. Initially perceived as a minor burglary—the break-in at the Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters—the duo senses that there's more beneath the surface. Their persistent investigation reveals that the burglars were financed by top officials from President Nixon's reelection campaign.

Notable Quote: Carl Bernstein reflects on their discovery: "With the most recent revelation about the slush fund, Bernstein and Woodward do have enough for a story." [02:15]

Confronting John Mitchell

Seeking to substantiate their findings, Bernstein contacts John Mitchell, the former head of Nixon's campaign and a former Attorney General. Their conversation is tense and revealing. Mitchell denies all allegations, but his unsettling demeanor raises suspicions.

Notable Quote: Mitchell responds sharply: "That's all been denied. Your publisher, Katie Graham. She's going to get caught in a big fat wringer if that's published. This is the most sickening thing I've ever heard." [02:45]

Bernstein interprets Mitchell's hostility as a potential sign of involvement, indicating that the reporters are inching closer to uncovering deeper truths about the scandal.

Deep Throat: The Mysterious Informant

As the investigation progresses, Woodward arranges a clandestine meeting with his confidential source, known as Deep Throat. This interaction is pivotal, providing Woodward with confirmation that John Mitchell was indeed involved in illegal activities tied to the Watergate break-in.

Notable Quote: Deep Throat cryptically advises: "Watergate is a tight knot and he and Bernstein will have to work to untie it." [12:30]

Despite confirming Mitchell's involvement, Deep Throat warns of the escalating dangers as Nixon's allies become increasingly desperate to protect the administration, hinting at potential repercussions for the reporters.

Hugh Sloan and the Revelation of Bob Haldeman

In a critical turn, Bernstein and Woodward seek confirmation from Hugh Sloan, the former treasurer of Nixon's campaign. Through nuanced questioning, they deduce that Bob Haldeman, Nixon's Chief of Staff, is the elusive fifth man controlling the secret slush fund.

Notable Quote: Bernstein presses Sloan: "If the other officials didn't control the slush fund, then the fifth man was either Haldeman or President Nixon himself." [16:55]

Sloan eventually confirms Haldeman's involvement, solidifying the reporters' explosive findings. This breakthrough positions Woodward and Bernstein to implicate one of the highest-ranking officials in the scandal.

Publishing the Bombshell and Facing Backlash

With their evidence in hand, Bernstein and Woodward prepare to publish their groundbreaking story. However, their triumph is short-lived as Hugh Sloan's attorney publicly disputes their claims, threatening to undermine their credibility just weeks before the presidential election.

Notable Quote: The attorney asserts: "The two reporters misrepresented his client." [23:10]

Faced with this challenge, the reporters are thrust into a state of crisis, questioning the integrity of their sources and the veracity of their reporting.

Strategizing with Deep Throat: A Tactical Retreat

Desperate for guidance, Woodward meets once more with Deep Throat in a secluded bar. The conversation reveals that targeting top officials prematurely may have jeopardized their investigation. Deep Throat advises a more strategic approach, suggesting that they focus on building cases against lower-level operatives like Howard Hunt and Gordon Liddy before ascending the investigative ladder.

Notable Quote: Deep Throat imparts strategic wisdom: "With a conspiracy investigation like this, the rope has to tighten slowly around everyone's neck." [30:20]

This counsel marks a pivotal shift in their investigative strategy, emphasizing patience and meticulous evidence gathering.

The White House's Calculated Response

Parallel to the reporters' challenges, the episode delves into the Nixon administration's internal turmoil. In February 1973, White House Counsel John Dean and other top aides convene to formulate strategies to mitigate the fallout from the Watergate scandal. Their discussions reveal a plan to appear cooperative publicly while obstructing the investigation behind closed doors.

Notable Quote: Dean emphasizes the need for a facade of cooperation: "The administration could make itself appear to be very cooperative. At the same time, Nixon's aides could stonewall the investigation." [34:00]

This dual approach aims to control public perception while maneuvering to protect the administration's interests.

Nixon's Appointment of L. Patrick Gray: Ensuring Control Over the FBI

In a significant development, President Nixon meets with L. Patrick Gray, the acting Director of the FBI, urging him to secure the position permanently. During this intense meeting, Nixon demands absolute loyalty and hints at the necessity of deceit to safeguard the administration's secrets.

Notable Quote: Nixon's coercive directive: "As the permanent FBI director, he wouldn't have any problem with this kind of arrangement." [36:40]

Gray's acquiescence underscores the lengths to which Nixon is willing to go to control the narrative and impede the investigation.

Final Counsel and the Path Forward

The episode culminates with Woodward and Deep Throat reassessing their strategy. Deep Throat acknowledges their mistake in prematurely targeting top officials but reinforces the importance of continuing their diligent investigation. He advises focusing on lower-level conspirators to gradually dismantle the administration's web of corruption.

Notable Quote: Deep Throat advises reinvention: "Start with the lower-level guys. Get 10 times the evidence you need against guys like Howard Hunt, Gordon Liddy." [40:15]

This renewed approach instills a sense of cautious optimism, highlighting the reporters' resilience in the face of formidable opposition.

Conclusion and Anticipation for the Next Episode

As the episode concludes, listeners are left with the realization of the immense challenges facing Bernstein and Woodward. Their commitment to uncovering the truth amidst political retaliation sets the stage for the forthcoming episodes, where the battle to expose the Watergate scandal intensifies.

Notable Quotes Recap:

1. "With the most recent revelation about the slush fund, Bernstein and Woodward do have enough for a story." – Carl Bernstein [02:15]

2. "That's all been denied. Your publisher, Katie Graham. She's going to get caught in a big fat wringer if that's published. This is the most sickening thing I've ever heard." – John Mitchell [02:45]

3. "Watergate is a tight knot and he and Bernstein will have to work to untie it." – Deep Throat [12:30]

4. "If the other officials didn't control the slush fund, then the fifth man was either Haldeman or President Nixon himself." – Carl Bernstein [16:55]

5. "The two reporters misrepresented his client." – Hugh Sloan's Attorney [23:10]

6. "With a conspiracy investigation like this, the rope has to tighten slowly around everyone's neck." – Deep Throat [30:20]

7. "The administration could make itself appear to be very cooperative. At the same time, Nixon's aides could stonewall the investigation." – John Dean [34:00]

8. "As the permanent FBI director, he wouldn't have any problem with this kind of arrangement." – Narrator on Nixon’s meeting with Gray [36:40]

9. "Start with the lower-level guys. Get 10 times the evidence you need against guys like Howard Hunt, Gordon Liddy." – Deep Throat [40:15]

Final Thoughts

Episode three of "Watergate" in the "American Scandal" series masterfully captures the escalating tension between relentless journalism and a determined political administration. Through detailed reenactments and meticulously researched narratives, the episode highlights the strategic maneuvers, both ethical and unethical, that defined the path to uncovering the truth behind Watergate. As Bernstein and Woodward navigate the perilous landscape of political corruption and media suppression, listeners gain an intimate look into the sacrifices and challenges faced by those committed to upholding democratic integrity.

For those eager to uncover more about Watergate and its profound impact on American politics, "American Scandal" offers an enthralling narrative that brings history to life with meticulous detail and compelling storytelling.