Questions: What event elevated the significance of the watchdog function in journalists' minds? the impeachment of Donald Trump results of the 2020 election the Watergate scandal Hillary Clinton's hacked emails

The answer is: the Watergate scandal.

Explanation for each option:

1. The impeachment of Donald Trump: While the impeachment of Donald Trump was a significant event in recent history, it did not elevate the significance of the watchdog function in journalists' minds to the same extent as the Watergate scandal. The role of the press in investigating and reporting on the Trump administration was important, but it built upon the established tradition of investigative journalism that was significantly shaped by earlier events.

2. Results of the 2020 election: The 2020 election results were a major news event, but they did not specifically elevate the significance of the watchdog function in journalism. The election did highlight the importance of accurate reporting and fact-checking, but it did not redefine the watchdog role of the press.

3. The Watergate scandal: The Watergate scandal is widely recognized as a pivotal moment in the history of journalism. The investigative reporting by journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein of The Washington Post played a crucial role in uncovering the details of the scandal, which eventually led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. This event significantly elevated the importance of the watchdog function in journalism, demonstrating the power and responsibility of the press to hold those in power accountable.

4. Hillary Clinton's hacked emails: The release of Hillary Clinton's hacked emails was a notable event in the 2016 presidential election, but it did not elevate the significance of the watchdog function in journalism in the same way as the Watergate scandal. The coverage of the emails was part of the broader landscape of political reporting, but it did not redefine the role of investigative journalism.

In summary, the Watergate scandal is the event that most significantly elevated the significance of the watchdog function in journalists' minds, setting a precedent for the critical role of investigative journalism in a democratic society.