Richard Nixon: “The American people believed in themselves, in their country, and their ideals.”

It is regrettable that the Congress has seen fit to add to a bill of such importance to our national security a rider adversely affecting the constitutional separation of powers.

I have never been a quitter. To leave office before my term is completed is abhorrent to every instinct in my body. But as president, I must put the interests of America first. Therefore, I shall resign the presidency effective at noon…

I further urge all students in our country to acquaint themselves fully with their own student government associations and to play a constructive role in contributing to their success.

I have done my very best in all the days since to be true to that pledge.