Final answer:
Malfeasance in Office refers to unlawful or fraudulent conduct by a public official. Examples include Nixon's Watergate scandal, Trump's impeachments, and Albert Fall's bribery conviction during the Harding Administration.
Step-by-step explanation:
An individual government official could be considered to have committed "Malfeasance in Office" if they engaged in unlawful behavior while serving in an official capacity. This term includes acts of misconduct, including but not limited to, illegal activities, corruption, and abuse of power. Historical examples of such behavior include Richard Nixon's involvement in the Watergate scandal, where he resigned before being impeached and possibly removed from the office. Donald Trump was also impeached (but not removed) twice over allegations of breaking federal laws for electoral advantages. Similarly, during the Reagan administration, officials involved in the Iran-Contra Affair resigned or were pardoned for their actions related to the scandal.
Specific examples of illegal activities include the actions of the "White House plumbers" and the "dirty tricks" squad during the Nixon era, who were engaged in efforts to sabotage political opponents. The Teapot Dome scandal, during the Harding Administration, saw Secretary of the Interior Albert Fall convicted of bribery, which is a classic case of malfeasance. Each of these cases demonstrates the potential incentives government officials might have to break the law and the severe consequences they may face if caught.