Richard Nixon: “I HEARTILY welcome the prompt and decisive action of the Congress in passing H.R. 19911.”

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

I have concluded that because of the Watergate matter, I might not have the support of the Congress that I would consider necessary to back the very difficult decisions and carry out the duties of this office in the way the interests of…

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.

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