"I can find no warrant for such an appropriation in the Constitution, and I do not believe that the power and duty of the general government ought to be extended to the relief of individual suffering which is in no manner properly related to the public service or benefit. Federal aid in such cases encourages the expectation of paternal care on the part of the government and weakens the sturdiness of our national character, while it prevents the indulgence among our people of that kindly sentiment and conduct which strengthens the bonds of a common brotherhood." | by: | Grover Cleveland
(1837-1908) 22nd & 24th US President, mayor and governor in New York state |
Source: | February 16, 1887, vetoing a bill to appropriate money to provide seeds to drought-stricken counties of Texas |
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