State of the Union Addresses

by Harry S. Truman

State of the Union Addresses of Harry S. Truman

The addresses are separated by three asterisks: ***

Dates of addresses by Harry S. Truman in this eBook:

[January 21, 1946]
[January 6, 1947]
[January 7, 1948]
[January 5, 1949]
[January 4, 1950]
[January 8, 1951]
[January 9, 1952]
[January 7, 1953]

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State of the Union Address
Harry S. Truman
January 21, 1946

To the Congress of the United States:

A quarter century ago the Congress decided that it could no longer consider the financial programs of the various departments on a piecemeal basis. Instead it has called on the President to present a comprehensive Executive Budget. The Congress has shown its satisfaction with that method by extending the budget system and tightening its controls. The bigger and more complex the Federal Program, the more necessary it is for the Chief Executive to submit a single budget for action by the Congress.

At the same time, it is clear that the budgetary program and the general program of the Government are actually inseparable. The president bears the responsibility for recommending to the Congress a comprehensive set of proposals on all Government activities and their financing. In formulating policies, as in preparing budgetary estimates, the Nation and the Congress have the right to expect the President to adjust and coordinate the views of the various departments and agencies to form a unified program. And that program requires consideration in connection with the Budget, which is the annual work program of the Government.