I have given the most careful and thoughtful consideration to
meeting this issue without further reference to the Congress. I
have determined, however, on this vital matter to consult with the
Congress.
There may be those who will say that, if the situation is as grave
as I have stated it to be, I should use my powers and act now. I
can only say that I have approached this problem from every angle,
and that I have decided that the course of conduct which I am
following in this case is consistent with my sense of
responsibility as President in time of war, and with my deep and
unalterable devotion to the processes of democracy.
The responsibilities of the President in wartime to protect the
nation are very grave. This total war, with our fighting fronts all
over the world, makes the use of the executive power far more
essential than in any previous war.
If we were invaded, the people of this country would expect the
President to use any and all means to repel the invader.
Now the revolution and the war between the states were fought on
our own soil, but today this war will be won or lost on other
continents and in remote seas. I cannot tell what powers may have
to be exercised in order to win this war.
The American people can be sure that I will use my powers with a
full sense of responsibility to the Constitution and to my country.
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