Richard Nixon: “There are no American combat forces in Laos.”

Two weeks ago, I vowed to the American people that any appropriations bill substantially above my budget for fiscal year 1975 would be vetoed.

This legislation exceeds my budgetary recommendations by such a large amount--some $540 million--that it presents a clear and distinct threat to our fight against inflation and cannot be accepted.

I have always tried to do what was best for the Nation.

We think that when we suffer a defeat that all is ended.