He left while devoting half his address to a recitation of his accomplishments in office."[249]

Post-presidency (1974–1994)
Pardon and illness
Further information: Pardon of Richard Nixon
President Ford announcing his decision to pardon Nixon, September 8, 1974, in the Oval Office
Following his resignation, the Nixons flew to their home La Casa Pacifica in San Clemente, California.[250] According to his biographer, Jonathan Aitken, "Nixon was a soul in torment" after his resignation.[251] Congress had funded Nixon's transition costs, including some salary expenses, though reducing the appropriation from $850,000 to $200,000. With some of his staff still with him, Nixon was at his desk by 7:00 a.m.—with little to do.[251] His former press secretary, Ron Ziegler, sat with him alone for hours each day.[252]
Nixon's resignation had not put an end to the desire among many to see him punished. The Ford White House considered a pardon of Nixon, even though it would be unpopular in the country. Nixon, contacted by Ford emissaries, was initially reluctant to accept the pardon, but then agreed to do so. 