American Rhetoric: Movie Speech

"Nixon" (1995)

Nixon Concedes California Gubernatorial Race

Audio mp3 of Address delivered by Anthony Hopkins

Nixon: I believe Governor Brown has a heart, even though he believes I do not. I believe he's a good American, even though he feels I am not. I'm proud of the fact that I defended my opponent's patriotism. You gentlemen didn't report it, but I'm proud that I did that. And I would appreciate it for once, gentlemen, if you would just print what I say.

For 16 years, ever since the Hiss case, you've had a lot of fun -- a lot of fun. But recognize you have a responsibility, if you're against the candidate, to give him the shaft, but if you do that at least put one lonely reporter on the campaign who will report what the candidate says now and then.

I think all-in-all, I've given as good as I've taken. But as I leave you I want you to know -- just think what you're going to be missing. You won't have Nixon to kick around any more -- because, gentlemen, this is my last press conference.

Thank you and good day.

Note: Click for off-site audio mp3 of Nixon's actual concession speech and here for off-site the transcript.