Richard Nixon: “It is essential that we preserve and expand that vitality in the years ahead.”

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.

A number of provisions authorize spending for unneeded equipment and could thus inflate defense spending unnecessarily at a time when we all should recognize the need to avoid waste.

To leave office before my term is completed is abhorrent to every instinct in my body.

This was a serious act of omission for which I take full responsibility and which I deeply regret.