What type of appeal is illustrated by Richard Nixon's statement about his and Pat's financial honesty?

The statement attributed to Richard Nixon about his and Pat's financial honesty exemplifies an appeal to pity. This type of appeal seeks to evoke sympathy from the audience by highlighting the speaker's personal struggles or virtues in a way that garners empathy or emotional support. In Nixon's case, by focusing on his financial honesty, he aims to portray himself and his wife as relatable individuals who have faced financial challenges, hoping to generate a compassionate response from the public.

This strategy can be particularly effective during political discourse, as it invites the audience to connect with the speaker on a personal level, making them more inclined to support their position or candidacy. By tapping into the audience's emotions and sense of fairness, the appeal to pity can help shift perceptions and mitigate criticisms.