Andrew Johnson: “I transmit a report from the Secretary of State and the documents by which it was accompanied”

No power exists in the Constitution authorizing the joint resolution or the supposed law--the only difference being that one would be more palpably unconstitutional and revolutionary than the other.

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.

The danger of a defeat of the people's choice in an election by the House of Representatives remains unprovided for in the Constitution.