Nixon vetoes War Powers Resolution, calling it unconstitutional infringement on executive power

President Nixon sends his veto of the War Powers Resolution to Congress, arguing the measure's restrictions on presidential commander-in-chief authority are unconstitutional. The veto comes days after the Saturday Night Massacre, when Nixon fired Watergate Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox, dramatically weakening his political standing. Congressional opponents of the measure argue the resolution cedes too much power to the executive in crisis situations.