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A strong defense is the surest way to peace. Strength makes detente attainable. Weakness invites war, as my generation - my generation - knows from four very bitter experiences. Just as America's will for peace is second to none, so will America's strength be second to none. We cannot rely on the forbearance of others to protect this Nation. The power and diversity of the Armed Forces, active Guard and Reserve, the resolve of our fellow citizens, the flexibility in our command to navigate international waters that remain troubled are all essential to our security.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
If compassion and mercy are not compatible with politics then something is the matter with politics.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr.
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My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over. Our Constitution works; our great Republic is a government of laws and not of men. Here the people rule. But there is a higher Power, by whatever name we honor Him, who ordains not only righteousness but love, not only justice but mercy.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
For nearly two hundred years, our nation has derived its strength from the diversity of its people and of their beliefs. That strength has been greatly enhanced by the Islamic religious heritage.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
In the two centuries that have passed since 1776, millions upon millions of Americans have worked and taken up arms when necessary to make that dream a reality. We can be extremely proud of what they have accomplished. Today, we are the world's oldest republic. We are at peace. Our Nation and our way of life endure. We are free.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
I believe that prayer in public schools should be voluntary. It is difficult for me to see how religious exercises can be a requirement in public schools, given our Constitutional requirement of separation of church and state. I feel that the highly desirable goal of religious education must be principally the responsibility of church and home. I do not believe that public education should show any hostility toward religion, and neither should it inhibit voluntary participation, if it does not interfere with the educational process.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
I hope never to see the day that I cannot admit having made a mistake.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
If Lincoln were alive today, he'd be turning over in his grave.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr.
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It's discouraging how hard it is for a President to slice away large chunks of a $305 billion budget.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
There is no undertaking more challenging, no responsibility more awesome, than that of being a mother.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
Mr. President, putting it bluntly, wouldn't we just be continuing a bloodbath that already exists in Cambodia if we voted the 222 million in aid?
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
I know well the coequal role of the Congress in our constitutional process. I love the House of Representatives. I revere the traditions of the Senate despite my too-short internship in that great body. As President, within the limits of basic principles, my motto toward the Congress is communication, conciliation, compromise, and cooperation.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
The Constitution is the bedrock of all our freedoms; guard and cherish it; keep honor and order in your own house; and the republic will endure.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
As President, I am determined to offer leadership to overcome our current economic problems. My goal is for jobs for all who want to work and economic opportunity for all who want to achieve.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr.
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In all my public and private acts as your president, I expect to follow my instincts of openness and candor with full confidence that honesty is always the best policy in the end.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
If you have not chosen me by secret ballot, neither have I gained office by any secret promises. I have not campaigned either for the Presidency or the Vice Presidency. I have not subscribed to any partisan platform. I am indebted to no man, and only to one womanmy dear wifeas I begin this very difficult job.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
America now is stumbling through the darkness of hatred and divisiveness. Our values, our principles, and our determination to succeed as a free and democratic people will give us a torch to light the way. And we will survive and become the stronger - not only because of a patriotism that stands for love of country, but a patriotism that stands for love of people.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
All my children have spoken for themselves since they first learned to speak, and not always with my advance approval, and I expect that to continue in the future.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
I couldn't wait to start the day.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
I do believe, with all my heart and mind and spirit, that I, not as President but as a humble servant of God, will receive justice without mercy if I fail to show mercy.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr.
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I had a lot of experience with people smarter than I am.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
I know I will go to hell, because I pardoned Richard Nixon.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
Conservatism has always meant more to me than simply sticking up for private property & free enterprise. It has also meant defending our heritage & preserving our values.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. -
Without God there could be no American form of government, nor an American way of life.
Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr.