We propose to balance the Federal budget by doing two things: number one, cutting the rate in growth of Federal spending...to a 5½ percent rate of increase in growth.
Gerald Ford
The Public Record
Gerald Rudolph Ford was the 38th President of the United States, serving from August 9, 1974, to January 20, 1977. A member of the Republican Party, Ford was born in Michigan and previously served as the U.S. House of Representatives member from 1949 to 1973. He also held the position of House Minority Leader from 1965 until he became President. Ford is particularly known for his efforts to heal the nation following the Watergate scandal and for his controversial decision to pardon former President Richard Nixon.
I see no reason whatsoever for any expansion of the Federal bureaucracy.
I am very proud that I am the first incumbent President who is seeking election who can stand before the American people and say that our country is at peace.
Because of sound, constructive, responsible policies, we have reduced that inflation rate so that for the first 4 months of 1976 the rate of inflation is under 3 percent, and that is progress.
He certainly is qualified for any office in the United States, from the Presidency on down.
We observe today an occasion of somber reflection and grateful praise.
I proposed to the Congress that we make it a mandatory certain penalty for anybody who commits a crime while in the possession of a firearm.
I am absolutely convinced as long as we have a well-led military force, as long as we create the right environment, we can get all of the active duty military personnel that we need under a voluntary program.
I think that makes much more sense than having Federal bureaucrats in Washington in 26 different cases telling the people in Indianapolis how to spend their money.
If I were a college student graduating in 1976, I would be a supporter of the political party that has given to this country an opportunity in our economic system to have job opportunities.
One of the most important reasons for our economic success in recent months has been the contribution of what Earl Butz calls the miracle man of the 20th century, the American farmer.
I can also report to you that the worst economic recession America has suffered in 40 years has been replaced by a strong and stable economy.
I admire Butler University for many, many things but I must say that one of your accomplishments is particularly impressive--that is, the ability of this university to balance its budget in each of its last 20 years.
The blame for this problem is solely on the shoulders of the United States Congress.
We remain the best hope of freedom and the inspiration for liberty of all mankind.
The United States will not only remain secure in its power but I assure you we shall not hesitate to use that power when it must be used in our national interest.
America is the greatest nation on Earth and we will keep it that way.
Let us never forget that our strength will be meaningful only if it is matched by our resolve.
Nothing is more vital to our individual, personal security than the security of our Nation.





