This study examines data from several national polls about press coverage during the Watergate scandal, in order to assess the origins of press criticism. The polls were conducted between 28 September and 6 October 1973, during June 1974, and in August 1974. The data suggest that political variables--particularly support of Nixon, party affiliation, and ideology--were the most important determinants of press criticism during the Watergate period, and sociological and psychological variables were of lesser consequence. The study concludes that the press may be limited in its ability to criticize popular government and political leaders, fulfilling its role as governmental watchdog and protector of the public interest only when a popular political figure is a weak leader. (RL)