Andrew Johnson: “This event will occasion mourning in the nation for the loss of an eminent citizen and honored public servant.”

My object in this communication is to suggest certain defects in the Constitution which seem to me to require correction.

The danger of a defeat of the popular choice in an election by the House of Representatives is no greater than in an election made nominally by the people themselves.

Feeling constrained to withhold my consent, I herewith return the resolution to the Senate, in which House it originated, with a brief statement of the reasons which have induced my action.

With these brief suggestions the bill is respectfully returned, and the consideration of Congress invited to the accompanying preamble and resolutions.