Meaning: The quote "The vice president had a bargaining asset, however, that no ordinary person has: He was next in line to the presidency. I saw no chance that he would resign first, then take his chances on trial, conviction, and jail" by Elliot Richardson, a lawyer, alludes to the unique position of the vice president of the United States and the implications of that position in the context of legal and political proceedings. This quote is a part of Richardson's reflection on the events surrounding the Watergate scandal, a pivotal moment in American history marked by political upheaval and legal consequences for high-ranking officials.

Elliot Richardson served as the U.S. Attorney General during the early 1970s, a period dominated by the Watergate scandal, which ultimately led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. In this quote, Richardson is likely referring to Vice President Spiro Agnew, who faced charges of tax evasion and money laundering during his tenure in office. The quote highlights the strategic advantage held by the vice president due to his position as the next in line to the presidency, which provided him with a level of immunity and leverage that an ordinary individual would not possess.

The "bargaining asset" mentioned in the quote refers to the inherent power and influence wielded by the vice president as a result of their proximity to the highest office in the country. This unique position creates a scenario where the vice president may be less likely to resign and face legal consequences, as doing so would mean forfeiting the potential ascent to the presidency and instead risking trial, conviction, and imprisonment. Richardson's observation underscores the complexities and nuances of the political and legal dynamics at play during a tumultuous period in American politics.

The quote also sheds light on the inherent challenges and ethical dilemmas associated with holding high office in the government. It raises questions about the extent to which individuals in positions of power are held accountable for their actions and the potential implications of their immunity and proximity to the presidency. The notion that an ordinary person would not possess the same bargaining asset highlights the disparities in power and privilege that exist within the political and legal systems.

Moreover, Richardson's reflection offers insight into the intricate interplay between law, politics, and the preservation of power. The implication that the vice president's unique position could influence their decision-making in the face of legal jeopardy speaks to the complexities of navigating the intersection of law and politics at the highest levels of government. It also underscores the significance of considering the broader implications of legal proceedings and accountability within the political landscape.

In conclusion, Elliot Richardson's quote encapsulates the complexities and implications of the vice president's position as a bargaining asset in the context of legal and political challenges. It serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the dynamics of power, accountability, and decision-making within the highest echelons of government, particularly during moments of crisis and upheaval. The quote resonates as a reminder of the intricate and often contentious relationship between law, politics, and the preservation of power in the American political landscape.