John Kennedy actually said...
Today, as never before, America needs a strong economy - not only to sustain our defenses - but also to demonstrate to other nations - particularly those wavering between our system and the Communists - that the way of freedom is the way to strength and security - that their future lies with us and not with the Soviet Union.
Context
Speech by Senator John F. Kennedy, to the Associated Business Publications Conference, Biltmore Hotel, New York, NY
10/11/1960