My belief was that it was not only his right but his duty to do anything that the needs of the Nation demanded unless such action was forbidden by the Constitution or by the laws.

Under this interpretation of executive power I did and caused to be done many things not previously done by the President and the heads of the departments.

I did not usurp power, but I did greatly broaden the use of executive power.

In other words, I acted for the public welfare, I acted for the common well-being of all our people, whenever and in whatever manner was necessary, unless prevented by direct constitutional or legislative prohibition.

I did not care a rap for the mere form and show of power; I cared immensely for the use that could be made of the substance.