Historic printed statement on his personal embossed letterhead, signed “Gerald R. Ford,” 7.25 x 10, March 3, 1987. Ford describes the process and enactment of the 25th Amendment, by which he became Vice President—and later, President. In part: “Amendment 25 to the United States Constitution, ratified February 10, 1967, is solid evidence that the Constitution is a ‘living instrument.’ Until the 25th Amendment was approved, the Constitution was deficient in not providing for a procedure for filling a vacancy in the office of the Vice President…. With the resignation of Vice President Spiro Agnew in 1973, the 25th Amendment was used for the first time resulting in my nomination on October 14th, to the office of Vice President by President Nixon. The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives confirmed, on December 6, 1973, my nomination under the Amendment to the Constitution. When President Nixon resigned on August 9, 1974, I was sworn in as President of the United States. This sequence of events again resulted in a vacancy in the Vice Presidency. I then nominated Nelson Rockefeller for the office of Vice President and the U.S. Congress confirmed by a majority vote. The above cited events clearly demonstrates that the drafters of the U.S. Constitution expected that Amendments to the document would be essential to meet any deficiencies in the basic provisions. A ‘living instrument’ is one that provides a procedure for changed circumstances. Fortunately, Article V in the Constitution gave to our nation the capability to meet future challenges.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by a one-page typed letter bearing a printed signature, apparently a form-letter reply sent to well-wishers after Ford assumed office, and that letter’s original mailing envelope.
This message reflects the 38th president’s ongoing support of the Constitution, and the wisdom of the Founding Fathers to create a “living instrument” capable of adapting to “deficiencies” in its original language. A stupendous statement from Ford presenting his reflections on one of the more turbulent political periods in the nation’s history. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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