Richard Nixon: “I AM today nominating Peter G. Peterson to be Secretary of Commerce.”

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…

In keeping Federal spending under control, we do not intend, of course, to single out only farm or environmental programs.

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

I also call upon appropriate community organizations to cooperate with the Customs Service in recognizing 185 years of mutually beneficial relationships.