How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)
Quote #1
And to answer those questions let me say this: not a cent of the $18,000 or any other money of that type ever went to me for my personal use. Every penny of it was used to pay for political expenses that I did not think should be charged to the taxpayers of the United States. (15-16)
Nixon's saying that not only isn't he rich, but he's virtuous. He wouldn't even dream of burdening the taxpayers.
Quote #2
Let me say, incidentally, that some of you may say, "Well, that is all right, Senator, that is your explanation, but have you got any proof?" And I would like to tell you this evening that just an hour ago we received an independent audit of this entire fund. (61-62)
This is Nixon's first line of defense against accusations of impropriety. Maybe he didn't think that the people would believe him, so he got independent corroboration that none of the contributions to the fund could be considered personal income. He mentions that he personally asked for this audit, so how could there be anything to hide?
Quote #3
How can we believe what you say -- after all, is there a possibility that maybe you got some sums in cash? Is there a possibility that you might have feathered your own nest?" And so now, what I am going to do— and incidentally this is unprecedented in the history of American politics—I am going at this time to give to this television and radio audience, a complete financial history, everything I have earned, everything I have spent and everything I own, and I want you to know the facts. (68-70)
This is Nixon's trump card, his ultimate testimony that he's an honest fellow who you can believe and trust. Or at least, he hoped that's what it would be, as there was a decent chance it would fall flat and just make him look like a complete idiot.
Quote #4
One other thing I should probably tell you, because if I don't they will probably be saying this about me, too. We did get something, a gift, after the election. (130-131)
This is the lead in to the famous line about the dog, and it's a smart one. Nixon opens with a joke about how his opponents will do anything to make him look bad, and then goes on to tell the heartwarming story of the only unsolicited contribution he had received—an adorable little puppy for his kids. That story seals the deal, because, puppies.
Quote #5
And I think you will agree with me—because, folks, remember, a man that's to be President of the United States, a man that is to be Vice President of the United States, must have the confidence of all the people. And that's why I'm doing what I'm doing, and that is why I suggest that Mr. Stevenson and Mr. Sparkman, if they are under attack, that should be what they are doing. (154-155)
Textbook Nixon move: he flips the accusations of "secret funds" back on to his opponents, and then calls for them to be as transparent as he's been "if" they're under attack.