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Ford Newsletter, Oct.-Dec. 1952
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This document scanned from Box D1 of the Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
FOR RELEASE OCT. 2
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Would you believe it! 0 f seven free nations
which held recent national elections, comparative figures
show that in all but one, over 70 per cent of the eligible
voters actually voted. In Australia, 96 percent of the to-
tal electorate turned out for the elections; 83 percent went
to the polls for the '51 election in Great Britain; Sweden
and Western Germany boast a turn out of 80 and 75 percent re-
spectively. Our neighbor, Canada, saw 74 percent of its to-
tal electorate go to the polls in '49, while Israel got out
72 per cent of the voters in 1951. And what about the United
States in '48? Only 51 percent of the 97.5 million potential
voters voted in the 1948 presidential election.
Kent and Ottawa counties showed a similar ratio.
Of 187,078 eligible voters in Kent County, only 98,776 turned
out in 1948. Ottawa made a showing of only 25,288 out of 44,
733 eligible voters. What's wrong? I can't answer the ques-
tion. That question must be answered in the heart of each and
every citizen. The moral obligation to vote belongs to each
of us by virtue of our American citizenship. Noone forces us
to vote. Here in America, it is our way of showing our inter-
est in and our appreciation for our America. It is one of our
most serious duties as American citizens
*
#
My sincerest thanks to all of you who wired, wrote
and phoned your sentiments in behalf of our vice-presidential
candidate, Dick Nixon. Our office, I am happy to say, was
swamped with your messages supporting Ike's running mate and
urging that he continue in his fight for America's security.
Let me assure you that your confidence in Dick Nixon,
in his integrity and courage, is very well placed. I know
Dick and I feel that your approval of his candidacy is evidence
that you, too, recognize in him the qualities of leadership
which this country so desperately needs
*
CERALD
The second page of this document was not found in this folder.
-3-
With the announcement that our pilotless planes are
making successful attacks on the Chinese Reds in Korea, I
found myself fancying a future war in which all the battles
were fought from a single control room. Whole cities might
be obliterated with one turn of a knob. Like one huge, inter-
national checker game, moves and counter-moves would be made
by robot control. None of this, however, makes war appear any
less fearful or terrible. War, no matter how its machines may
be technically perfected, is, nevertheless, a scourge to the
whole world. There is no such thing as a perfect war as we
might speak of a perfect game. War comes of greed and pride,
and the fruits of these vices can be nothing but more evil and
distress.
I do not advocate the use of archaic weapons, for
modern warfare has long outgrown the effectiveness of the bow
and arrow, but I do look forward to the day when our technical
instruments will function solely for the benefit of mankind,
not for his death and destruction.
*
*
*
"The Big Red Book" which has caused so much comment
of late, has proved to be just about my best argument for a cut
in the Federal Budget. Far more than a mere "conversation
piece", my red-bound copy of the Federal Budget, weighing some
15 pounds, which I carry with me to almost every meeting, is
graphic evidence of the "spend-spend-spend" policy of the present
Administration.
I know of no better way to point out to those of you
who may have a bit of difficulty in comprehending federal ex-
penditures in terms of millions and billions, than by showing
you the actual budget in black and white - and red.
*
*
*
It's a red-letter day for me when I get a chance
for a trip to the rural areas of our District. There's nothing
like it for a renewed faith in human nature and confidence in
the future of America.
I'm looking forward to more trips throughout both
counties to hear what all of you have to say concerning the na-
tional issues. Your opinions, remember, will carry a good deal
of weight with my decisions on future legislation should your
vote elect me to the 83rd Congress.
FOR RELEASE OCT. 16
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By GERALD R. FORD, JR,
If anyone deserves a lot of credit and commendation,
there's noone more worthy than my good friend and collegue,
Charlie Potter. I know only too well what the strain of cam-
paigning is, and Charlie, despite his physical handicaps is
showing himself to be a real trouper. Knowing Charlie as I do
from our years spent working together in the House of Repre-
sentatives, I have the utmost respect for his ability as a
Congressman and sincere confidence that in Charlie, Michigan
will have a Senator who will not put personal benefit before
his duty as a representative of the people of Michigan. Char-
lie Potter is completely capable of fulfilling the trust
which the people of Michigan place in their Senator.
I wish all of you could know Charlie Potter as I
know him. He's an outstanding citizen, a true friend, a ca-
pable legislator and will make an energetic and trustworthy
Senator.
*
*
*
With all the talk about robot guided missiles and the
like, a trip to the moon doesn't seem to be in the too-distant
future. And, in case your interested, we've learned that the
$260,000,000,000 of our national debt in $1 bills would pave
a strip 20 feet wide all along the whole 256,471 miles to the
moon. Believe me, those are real astronomical figures, with
a capital A.
I don't know who spends his time figuring out these
things, but it sure helps folks like you and me get some notion
of the enormity of the debt resting on the shoulders of the
American citizens.
The present Adminsitration has put the Federal govern-
ment in big business at the expense of its citizens. Your
vote in November will tell whether or not you approve of this
uncomfortable situation in which you have been placed.
*
*
*
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
-2-
As much as I should like to be in my office at the
Federal Building at all times to talk to each one of you, indi-
vidually, who stop for a visit, I need not tell you that there
are many duties which make it impossible. I've found that having
a competant staff is the next best thing. In my absence, there-
fore, I ask you to feel free to discuss your problems with the
members of my staff. We work as a team with emphasis on service
to constituents who have troubles with the many agencies of the
Federal government.
John Milanowski, my Administrative assistant, is my
right hand man. You can trust John to have accurate information
on almost every phase of our Federal government.
My secretary, Adaline Brewer, is a whiz at keeping
my appointments straight, to say nothing of the hundred and one
other duties of a Congressional secretary. The appointments in
themselves, are a mighty large order when you consider that an
ordinary day consists of several conferences, speaking engage-
ments and meetings in addition to the regular correspondence
which must be mailed out each day.
Sally Obermeyer, who helps me personally with leg-
islative research, speech material, radio and T.V. programs and
other publicity, is available to handle anything along that line.
She can also make arrangements with you for the many films which
we have on hand to loan to you.
If your thinking that I'm left without anything to do,
my columns ought to convince you that there are many things which
a Congressman must do himself. Legislative matters are his dir-
ect responsibility and no amount of juggling can alter that fact.
Having a competant staff makes it a whole lot easier to do a
good job for you.
So, having introduced my staff to my readers, I'll
repeat my invitation to you all to stop in our office for a
visit. John, Adaline, Sally and myself are looking forward to
meeting and talking to you.
#
FOR RELEASE OCT. 23
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
The Americans for Democratic Action, better
known as the A.D.A., has produced its "scorecard" on members
of Congress. A few Sonators and Representatives had a good
batting average with this organization but most did not.
Here's why. The A.D.L. is an ultra left-wing organization
which openly advocates a "planned economy" with all the
horrors of extreme government regimentation and unlimited
red tape. It's members deny it is a "communist front". Ap-
parently this is true. However, the A.D.A. has a "soft" at-
titude toward the communist menace. For example, the 1952
platform of the A.D.A. declares its opposition to the Smith
Act which law makes it a criminal offense to teach or advocate
the overthrow of our government by force of violence, The
Smith Act was the basis of the Federal government's drive
against all communist leaders who were convicted in New York
after prolonged trial. A dozen other communist leaders are
awaiting trial under this law in lifornia. The A.D.A also
attacked the FBI in connection with the Judy Coplon espionage
case. A.D.A. believes in socialized medecine and the Brannan
plan.
Interestingly enough, the Democratic Party can-
didate for the U.S. Senate in Michigan (Moody) had a 93 per
cent batting average in the A.D.A. scorecard. Moody voted
only once against the wishes of the A.D.A. In other words,
there is a definite similarity of views between the A.D.A. and
Moody. In contrast, Congressman Charles Potter is not the
candidate of this extreme left wing group. I can assure you
Congressman Charlie Potter has a topnotch record of supporting
good legislation for the benefit of America as a whole.
*
*
So you never had it so good. At least that's
what our political opponents are trying to say - and in the
same breath they're trying to deceive honest citizens into
FORD
GERALD
LIBRARY
-2-
believing that Republicans are bent solely upon "taking it
away"
Nothing is farther from the truth.
All the Republican candidates have stated time
and time again that it is their intention, and, they feel,
their obligation in view of the poor job done by the present
Administration, to give to the citizens of the United States
a high standard of living based on a firm foundation of sound
economy. The Democrats claim to have provided us with a high
standard of living. But what good is it? What good is a big,
shiny, beautiful apple whose inside is rotten and wormy? What
good is a grand and imposing home built on an unstable founda-
tion? This is the high standard of living we have today.
Americans have a right to a high standard of liv-
ing. There's not a one of us who would deny that. But they al-
so have a right to a stable economy and the security it brings.
The Democrats have ignored this side of the issue entirely.
General Eisenhower has left no doubt as to his
first move toward a stable economy, should he be elected to
fill the highest office in the land. More than once he has
stated that he intends to eliminate the waste and extravagances
which have sent the Federal expenditures sky-rocketing. Cutting
off a little excess fat never harmed a good piece of meat and
it won't hurt the national economy either.
And what about prices? You get more money but it
buys less.
And
taxes
almost one-third the price of an
automobile is taxes; one hundred taxes on a single egg; the
price of a package of cigarettes is nearly doubled because of
taxes. We never had it so good? I wonder how much better we
could have it if we didn't have the graft, corruption, waste
and unnecessary extravagance.
*
1030
FOR RELEASE OCT. 30
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Half-truths, if told often enough, soon appear to be
whole-truths. It is difficult to understand why the Demo-
cratic candidate for the U.S. Senate tells only one-sixth
of the story when he "spouts" about Congressman Charlie Potter's
attendance record. Misrepresentation of the record in this
case is an unfair smear. Let's set the record straight.
Charlie Potter has been a United States Representative
for six years. In 1947-1948, he had an attendance record of
97 per cent. For the 1949 session of the Congress, Potter's
attendance record was 85 per cent and in 1950, 76 per cent.
In 1951 Congressman Potter had an 85 per cent "batting aver-
age". The 1952 record was 46 per cent.
Why after a topnotch five year record did Charlie slip
to a lower attendance average? The answer is simple and should
be told. Congressman Potter has been a member of the Committee
on Un-American Activities for the past term. That committee
held important hearings in Los Angeles and Detroit where com-
munist party infiltration was exposed in the motion picture
and vital defense industries. The Un-American Activities Com-
mittee hearings were not held in Washington and as a result,
committee members had to be away from the Nation's Capital.
In other words, Congressman Potter, as a member of this impor-
tant committee had to be away from Washington if he was to do
his part in exposing communist infiltration in defense indus-
tries right here in Michigan as well as elsewhere throughout
the country. In my opinion, it was most important for Charlie
Potter to be on the job with this committee and it is obvious
one person can't be in Washington and California at the same
time.
On legislative matters affecting farmers, Potter and
Moody disagree considerably. The Farmer's Union on its 1952
scorecard rates Moody ace high. On 15 votes, Moody voted 12
times the way the Farmer's Union recommended. Congressman
Potter, in contrast, voted against all of the proposals recom-
GEBALD FORD VIBRAR
-2-
mended by this organization. In other words, it is fair to
say that Potter and the Farmer's Union are not in agreement
on what is good for American agriculture while Moody and the
Farmer's Union are in accord. The record also shows that the
American Farm Bureau and the Grange disagree with the Farmer's
Union on most issues. As one Kent County farmer said to me:
"In one corner of the ring you have the Farm Bureau, the Grange
and Potter while in the other the Farmer's Union and Moody."
*
*
Don't forget to be stationed at your radios and TV sets
Friday, October 31 from 7 to 10 p.m. John B. Martin, Jr. can-
didate for State Auditor General and myself will be holding fort
for three hours on WOOD-TV to answer the questions you phone in.
Here's your chance to ask lots of questions about both candidates
and policies. So-stand by Friday night! John and I will be
waiting to hear from you. Watch your local papers for further
announcements.
*
*
I'd like to take this opportunity to remind my readers
not to forget their contributions to the Grand Rapids War Mem-
orial Drive and the Community Chest Drive. It might make you
feel good to take time from the political whirl of these last
few days before the national election to remember our local re-
sponsibilities. The Community Chest Campaign which this year
includes FOUR major drives in ONE has been extended six days to
enable the citizens of Grand Rapids to send in their contribu-
tions.
A S I write this, over $200,000 are still needed to reach
the goal set for the 1953 drive. I myself, have spent some time
soliciting contributions for the Community Chest, the Red Cross
and other, and have found it a most rewarding endeavor. You
the citizens of Western Michigan have been so generous in your
response that it has made our work a pleasure. But we can't
afford to relax our efforts at this time. Further more, it sure
gives a lift to the morale to help in a worthy cause such as this.
So don't forget to send your donation right away to both
the War Memorial "und Drive and the Red Cross-Red Feather Cam-
paign. Better still, don't wait for the solicitor to call on you.
Call or write the Chest office nearest you and pledge your do-
nation to the Community Chest drive, today.
FOR RELEASE NOV. 6
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Open letter to "REVIEW" readers-
Response to our Friday night TV program was ex-
ceedingly great - so great, in fact, that John Martin and I
were both pleased and overwhelmed.
However, as might be expected in a project this
large, there were those who benefited from this type of program
and there were those who had their complaints. Complaints fell
into three general categories: technical complaints, complaints
about handling of questions, and personal complaints.
The background noises of our telephone operators
answering phones was absolutely unavoidable as was fully ex-
plained over the air. We are sincerely sorry if this was a
source of annoyance to anyone.
The handling of the questions seemed to evoke the
greatest amount of criticism. I can only assure you that we
did the best that was humanly and physically possible under the
circumstances. Over 600 questions came over our ten telephone
wires in the space of three hours time. Naturally, they could
not all be answered at that time. But for your information, we
intend to answer personally each and every question sent in.
We attempted to answer those questions which were concerned with
major issues and those which were, apparently, real problems to
you listeners.
Furthermore, and I speak both for John Martin and
myself, we answered each question as it came to us as best we
could with the factual data at our command. I might add, in-
cidentally, that John and I felt as though we were up against a
firing line. How would you like to get up there in front of all
those cameras and lights and answer questions sent in from all
over - as far as the television signal can reach? Believe me,
we were under a good deal of pressure.
I have always welcomed criticism, both favorable
and adverse - and that goes for the TV program, too, I thank
GERALD GERALD R. FORD
-2-
each and every one of you who expressed your interest by phon-
ing in Friday night; whether you agreed with our views or not.
Thanks, too, to all who were so generous with contributions.
In general, I sincerely hope the majority of you
went away from our broadcast with some better knowledge of the
issues at stake. If you did not, it was only our lack of skill
which was responsible.
Anyway, thank you one and all.
*
*
*
As I write this column for you, my readers, the votes
have not yet been counted. The only thing of which American
voters can be positively certain is that Mr. Truman will no long-
er be in the White House after January 3, 1953. After that date
the reign of "Boss Harry" will belong to history.
Harry has made his future plans quite clear. It's back
to the farm in Missouri for the Truman clan. Yes, back to the
farm
but it won't be the same farm Bess and Margaret knew be-
fore they left, many years ago. Mr. Truman has been laying aside
some pin money during the past few years with which he intends
to "fix up the old place".
There'll be a large library for all of Harry's books
a special corner for his favorites
seven tremendous volumes
of the Federal budget, accumulated during his seven years as
President of our United States. No doubt, too, there'll be room
for a scrap book of "before and after" pictures of the redecor-
ated White House. It seems Harry has acquired a penchant for
re-decorating.
Harry the Haberdasher has made his name and fortune and
now will retire to the position of the country gentlemen. But
there's something about ex-Presidents of the United States. They
can never really "fade away". In the future, historians will de-
cide whether the Truman Administration was good or bad for America.
At this point, we can only be certain that Mr. Truman was the
"name-callingest" President of all time.
But as we close that book and open another on a new
Administration we hope and trust America can take a new lease on
life.
FOR RELEASE NOV. 13
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
It's all over
including the shouting! The
voters have had their day and they've made the decisions which
will effect the future of the Nation for the next four years.
There's no question about it, Adlai Stevenson was
a remarkable candidate. I feel very strongly that Tuesday's vote
was directed not so much against Stevenson as against Truman and
his Administration.
Throughout the campaign, Stevenson showed him-
self to be a man of nobility and character. Would that he had
had other affiliations! It is indeed unfortunate that a man of
Stevenson's qualities had to be sacrificed on the altar of HST's
arrogance.
Those of us who know Mr. Stevenson only through
his campaign speeches cannot help but respect him. He was as
admirable in defeet was he was in the throes of the campaign.
But Eisenhower is the man
the best man
chosen
to guide out nation through the coming four years
a critical
four years. Ike knows, from the overwhelming vote which put
him into office, that he has the support of the people of America.
Ike is assured, too, of the energetic support of all the Repub-
lican workers
the same energetic support which was manifested
throughout the campaign. In other words, Ike knows a great trust
and responsiblity has been placed in him and he knows as well
that he can count on his people to stand behind him, to help him
to
bear
the
burden. It is this cooperation between citizens and
Administration
so long lacking from America's political scene
which will revitalize America and put it back on solid footing.
Tuesday, November 4th was not merely a great day for
Republicans. It was a great day for America. The figures
the
largest vote in the Nation's history
prove that Democrats, In-
dependents as well as Republicans wanted Eisenhower for President.
FORD
The boundaries of political affiliations were broken down that days
as the citizens elected Dwight D. Eisenhower to the highest office
GERALD
LIBRARY
in the land
President of the United States.
-2-
I owe a great debt of gratitude to all of you who
gave me such 2 tremendous vote of confidence in Tuesday's election.
I am very proud of the response, and deeply appreciative.
Furthermore, I renew my nledge to you to continue
giving my best efforts in your behalf. At the same time I urge
you to keep me informed of your opinions and needs. Only with your
help will I be able to do the kind of job you expect from your
Representative to Congress.
Many thanks for your cooperation in the past. Now
we're all starting off with a clean slate, determined to do the
best job possible.
There are a lot of thanks to be bestowed, now that
the rigors of the campaign are over. Everyone from newspaper ed-
itors and radio station managers to campaign workers and contrib-
utors deserve heartiest congratulations for their excellent co-
operation. I should like to thank personally each and every in-
dividual who took time to phone my office to give words of en-
couragement during the campaign. I sincerely appreciate your
thoughtfulness.
I can say without fear of contradiction that not
a single Republican was confident of victory until the votes were
counted Tuesday evening. For this very reason, we owe a great
debt of gratitude to those of you whose intense efforts as well
as your constant reassurance really won the victory for us.
My only remark now is - let's keep up the good
work! We've seen what concentrated efforts and down-to-earth
hard work can accomplish, Let's profit from our experiences
during the campaign. It's hard work that's going to put the Nation
back on its feet.
For release November 20, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
By this time many of you who wrote me during the campaign are be-
ginning to receive the long-overdue answers to your letters. Now that I'm finally
getting time to wade into the mountain of correspondence, I find the number of
complaints from individuals having difficulty with the Bureau of Internal Revenue
is really staggering. You will be interested to learn that every single letter is
being forwarded to the Regional Office in Detroit. I am in hopes that the deluge
of mail will light a fire under a few of the officials down there so that we can
look forward to a more efficient handling of tax returns in the very near future.
*
*
We all spend lots of time complaining about the international situa-
tion as well as the diplomats who are forming national and international policies.
But do we ever stop to think that these very diplomats are not machines with brief-
cases for hearts?
Have you ever imagined what it might be like making decisions affect-
ing the citizens of an entire nation-the whole world? And how would you like to
have that as your everyday job even as you now go off to the office or factory each
day? For myself, I have often pondered the terrific responsibility facing these
men and wondered why more of them didn't crack up under the strain.
Try, sometime, to put yourself in the position of a high government
official. Place yourself at a long table with officials of foreign-speaking nations,
each with many difficult problems to solve. For atmosphere, add bright lights,
cameras, newsmen, secretaries, clerks and a general buzz of activity. In the midst
of all this, our diplomats must discuss, argue, bargain and decide.
In the light of all these facts, I'd suggest that the diplomats bur-
dened with the weight of many, many problems be given a certain amount of mercy and
a great deal of prayer. They are all human, prone to the same weaknesses even as
you and I.
*
*
*
Veterans certainly have their share of problems these days. As
evidence I submit the score of letters on allotment checks, GI loans, GI education,
etc., received at my office almost daily. Many of these proglems are unavoidable
but some might be escaped if just plain old caution were used.
For example, when it comes to buying something as expensive as a house,
nearly all of us have to borrow money to swing the deal. That involves regular
payments every month. Now, sometimes, in spite of everything that can be done, a
few fall behind on their payments--and of course, that holds true for some veterans
FORD
who have bought homes with GI loans. So here's a warning. Watch out for "sharpers.
LIBRARY
Your Washington Review - Page 2
The bait used by these tricksters is a promise to help you wipe out
your accumulated debt and bring you up to date. But to do this you have to sign
the sharper's paper. Too late, you learn that what you really signed was a deed
to your property. That makes you pay plenty to get your own house back. If you
can't raise the money, he takes you to court. He produces the deed signed by you
and puts you out of your own house. And that's only one of the tricks they use.
A faker may offer you a small sum of money for your equity in the
house. As bait, he offers you the opportunity to buy a less expensive house--in
a cheaper location. It looks plausible. You think that you're swapping a place
you can't afford for a place you can afford--and paying the sharper for helping you.
But here's the catch! Later on you are informed that there are "no listings
available" in the lower cost neighborhood. You are then legally out of the House
you signed over to the swindler for a lot less than your equity in it.
Now it may happen that you'll never run into a financial jam-or
run into one of these slick operators. But it'll pay you to be on the alert.
Remember this common sense rule. Don't ever sign anything unless you thoroughly
understand it. So, if you own a GI home, and you have trouble meeting your payments,
the bank and
check first with the VA. Remember this too: If you need information or help on
any other benefits provided for you, get in touch with the one place that has all
the dope--your nearest Veterans Administration office,
FOR RELEASE NOV. 27
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Despite the many precedents and singular events
which marked this presidential election as one of the most un-
usual in history, when January 3 rolls "round traditional pro-
cedures will usher in the new 83rd Congress and install the
new administration.
Before Congress convenes on January 3, House
members-elect, both Democratic and Republican will meet in their
respective party conferences to select candidates for House of-
fices. A Speaker and Clerk of the House, Sergeant at Arms,
Chaplain, Doorkeeper, and Postmaster of the House will have to
be elected by the members of the 83rd Congress, In addition,
the groups also select their party officials. These are the
floor leader, party whip, assistant whips and committee on com-
mittees.
The first roll will be called by Ralph Roberts,
Clerk of the 82nd Congress. Nominations will be made by a
member from each party and the entire body will then proceed
to a vote. Republicans having the slight edge on the Democrats
in the new Congress, the Republican nominee for Speaker (prob-
ably Joseph Martin of Mass.) will, no doubt, take the election
and senior Republican, Rep. Daniel A. Reed of N.Y. will admin-
ister the oath of office. The newly-installed Speaker will
then administer the oath of office to the entire body of mem-
bers-elect.
Various organizational resolutions will be brought
up and voted upon during the first day or two, although commit-
tee membership may take considerably longer because of the change
in party control.
In the Senate, much the same system prevails with
the exception of the election of a President pro-tempore, who
presides in the absence of the Vice-President. Official appoint-
ments may be delayed in the higher body until after January 20
when Sen. Richard Nixon is sworn into office.
GERALD FORD (18848)
2
This year, the first business of the joint Con-
gress will be the counting of electoral votes which, according
to Federal law takes place on January 6.
All in all, the Congressional organization ought
to be ship-shape in time for the inauguration, or at least well
under way. Meanwhile, I understand that at the Capitol in Wash-
ington, preparations were begun long ago for the Inauguration
Day ceremonies. Even now, two months before the big day, hotel
accomodations in our Nation's Capital are already at a premium.
It promises to be a most exciting time indeed for Republicans,
Washingtonians and all citizens who will be fortunate enough to
attend the Inauguration ceremonies.
*
*
*
Two congratulatory letters found themselves side-
by-side in my mail the other morning: one was from the presi-
dent-elect himself, Dwight D. Eisenhower; the other bore the
letter head of Senator Estes Kefauver. Both ironically stated
that they looked forward to our working together in the new Con-
gress. For my part, I sincerely hope it will be possible for
the safety and well-being of the Nation, for all branches of
our Federal government to work together with world peace and
national security and stability as our goal.
*
*
*
With the traditional Thanksgiving dinner sending
all sorts of heavenly aromas through the house, and friends
gathering to spend a happy and peaceful day together - it's
not hard to remember that we all have much to be thankful for.
For those to whom the year has brought misfortune this day of
days may be marked by a distinct gloom. To those I express my
deepest sympathy as also my hope that the future will bring
blessings merited by their suffering.
But to all
Betty, Mike, Jack and I, as well as
my staff, send our best wishes for a Happy Happy Thanksgiving Day.
FOR RELEASE
4
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Some interesting statistics concerning the new
83rd Congress have just been released to the public:
Although elected to serve in the House of Rep-
resentatives for the 83rd Congress, Garrett L. Withers (D-Ky.)
will retain his title of Senator since previous service in
the Senate permits him to use that title for life.
Another interesting sidelight is the fact that
there will be twelve Congresswomen ( a new record) seated in
the 83rd Congress, including Margaret Chase Smith, who is still
the solitary woman in the upper house.
Of particular note is the election of Oliver P.
Bolton to his first term as Representative of Ohio's 11th Dis-
trict. Oliver Bolton is the son of Mrs. Frances P. Bolton,
Representative of the 22nd District of Ohio who has served
since February of 1940 when she was elected to fill the vacan-
cy created by the death of her husband.
Only two of the distaff representation in Congress
have not had previous service in either the House or the Sen-
ate
and seven of the twelve are widows of former Congressmen.
Women members of Congress, I might add at this
point, take no back seat as far as fulfilling their official
responsibilities are concerned. Their competance has earned
for them the high esteem of every other member of Congress.
Those of us who may be old-fashioned enough to think that a
woman's place is in the home are forced to do some reconsider-
ing when we see the "gals" debating like troopers on the floor
of the Congress. When issues demand, the feminine voice can
resound throughout the chamber as powerfully as any man's. How
well we know just how persuasive, forceful and capable Congress
women can be!
At least, brother Congressmen, we still haven't
been outnumbered.
GERALD FORD FIBRARY
-2-
The McCarran Immigration Bill has received some
mighty rough treatment at the hands of would-be interpreters,
including Federal attorneys who are "agin" the law under any
circumstance. The result has been wholesale confusion and mis-
understanding on the part of well-meaning citizens.
At the outset let it be know that United States
citizens arriving from either Hawaii or Alaska are not subject
to exclusion of any kind when entering the continental United
States. The provisions concerning screening of persons enter-
in the country from Alaska refer solely to aliens regardless of
any other interpretation which may have been offered to the pub-
lic from uninformed sources.
Because this matter was brought to my attention, I
wrote directly to the H_use Committee on the Judiciary for clar-
ification of these provisions. Their reply, in addition to the
above information, stated that the Immigration and Nationality
Act was intended primarily to remove inconsistencies in existing
law. and not to discriminate against citizens of the United
S ates. For this reason, I urge you to check wi th reliable
sources before becoming unnecessarily concerned over friends or
relative who are affected by these provisions.
*
*
*
My first Christmas gift of 1952 turned up last week
a remembrance from Congressman Thurmond Chatham of North Caro -
lina. Finding no "Do not open until Christmas" tag on the pack-
age, I tore off the wrappings and found inside this note together
with a quart jar of delectable honey:
"The bees in the Fifth District of North Carolina
will always be good Democrats and, like good Democrats, will be
ambitious, industrious, frugal and successful. I want you to
have the benefit of this honey produced in the foothills of the
Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!"
Now, a joke's a joke, but I just won't be able to
sleep nights 'til I think of something equally as clever to coun-
teract my collegue's subtle humor. I had thought of something,
but upon reconsidering I decided that informing him that it was
the Democrats who got stung this year would be a bit too brutal
especially after his thoughtfulness in sending the honey. But
rest assured, I'll think of something.
for release Dec. 11
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
It's not often that I have an opportunity to give whole-
hearted approval and commendation to a military group so that
when the occasion arises I'm more than anxious to do SO. Last
week a letter was brought to my attention from a certain Lt.
Robert L. Gant of the 6th Armored Division, Fort Leonard Wood,
Missouri. Lt. Gant has, in my estimation, initiated one of the
finest public relations projects which it has ever been my for-
tune to encounter. Here's how it works:
When a boy arrives at Ft. Leonard Wood for training, Lt.
Gant sends his parents a letter telling them of their boy's
assignment and outlining his schedule during his training. A-
mong other things the parents are given the boy's correct ad-
dress, informed of recreational facilities available to the
men and even notified of guest facilities should relatives de-
sire to visit him.
The parents are especially admonished to help to dispel
inevitable homesickness by sending lots of cheery letters.
I am certain that every parent who received one of these
letters feels far more secure and confident that his boy is in
good hands. In my judgement, I have yet to learn of a more pos-
itive effort toward better understanding and cooperation between
officers, men and their families. It gives me great pleasure
to send my heartiest congratulations to Lt. Gant for a most
practical service to his country.
*
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*
Last week I was favored with a personal interview with
the Australian Ambassador to the U.S. and I was also privileged
to hear him speak before the Economic Club of Detroit. The
Ambassador, who is also the top Australian representative in
the United States spoke frankly about the problems of Pacific
Security and how his country and ours must stand shoulder to
shoulder against the aetheistic dictators in the Kremlin. It
was most encouraging to hear this rugged little fighter from the
land "down under" praise, with sincerity, our Nation, its people,
GERAÇO FORD LIBRARY
con't.
General MacArthur and the principles for which we all fought
in World War II.
*
Rep. Joseph Martin of Massachusetts who is most likely
to become Speaker of the House of Representatives this coming
January indicated he will let the various House Committees de-
cide whether their hearings may be televised or photographed
for newsreels. During the last session of the Congress, Joe
Martin disagreed with Speaker Rayburn's TV ban of House Com-
mittee hearings.
The arbitrary decision to bar cameras from the House
Committee hearings was an unquestionalbe injustice to the Am-
erican people since the restriction came at a time when the is-
sues were of public concern. If you recall, Rayburn's procla-
mation came at the eleventh hour before the televising of the
Un-American Activities Committee hearings in Detroit in Febru-
ary of 1952. There were a good many vehement charges and coun-
tercharges made at the time on both sides, As a matter of fact,
I am reasonably certain the controversy was heated enough that
we can all look for a fair and sensible approach to the problem
in the 83rd Congress.
It is understandable that in some instances, for security
reasons, a temporary restriction on news stories is necessary.
However, it is certainly unfair to the American public to use
censorship for political reasons.
*
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*
Like all the rest of you we are still up to our ears in
Christmas shopping
and in the midst of it all trying to get
ready to move back to Washington. We're getting to feel almost
like gypsies having to pack up every few months to go back and
forth from Washington to Grand Rapids, This year we'll all be
spending our Christmas in Washington so as to be ready bright
and early on January 3 when Congress re-convenes. There's lots
of work to be done this year and there'll be no room for slackers.
So even though we might prefer to be in Grand Rapids for the hol-
FORD
idays we'll have to extend our greetings from 650 miles away.
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
Release December 18
By GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Undeubtedly the Nation is relieved to know that Ike is back frem Korea.
He had stated from the outset that his trip would not produce any miraculeus
solution to the Korean conflict, wither while he was in Korea nor immediately
after his return. His trip, we must remember, WES intended primarily that he
might see for himself and thereby make more effective plans with regard to
the Korean situation. As a recognized military expert Eisenhower was well
equipped to observe with a keen and critical eye the military situation in
Korea. As a capable and resourceful administrator he will be qualified to make
judgments and formulate plans which, we all trust, will bring a decided
improvement in the Korean conflict.
The very fact that Ike would not be satisfied with second-hand reports on
the Korean affair and insisted upon a personal review of our status in Korea is
in itself sufficient evidence that Ike will be a therough and efficient Chief
Executive. He will not be content to sit idly by watching casualty lists the uni
as armchair strategists at truce conferences engage in endless bickering. Our
next president will be both a man of thought and a man of action. We have
Leng been in need of both.
Furthermore President-tz-be Ike wants the aid and advice of all as evi-
denced in his conference with General MacArthur. It is unbelievable that Mac--
Arthur with all his knowledge of the Far East has never been consulted by Mr.
Truman.
############ #..##:####
Shortly after Ike's election he set up a committee of distinguished citi
aens tr, make recommendations on government reorganization. It was aimed at the
same problems which the Heaver Commission tackled several years ago. About
sixty percent of the Hoover Commission proposals are now in operation but some
of the most controversial suggested changes are still gathering dust on the
burcaucratic shalves. The Eisenhower reorganization committee may force further
streamlining in the numerous bureaus and agencies which will mean eventual
savings in taxes.
Here are some of the spote where reorganizations might be recommended.
Cabinet rank for the administrator of the Federal Security Agency. With Oscar
Ewing to be replaced by Mrs. Oveta Culp Hobby in this job the Congress might
approve such a change.
It is rumoured that the committee might como up with a suggestion to
FORD
transfer the flood contrel and river and harber responsibilities of the ACENU
Engineers to the Department of Interier's Bureau of Reclamation. Presidents
Hoover and Truman in the past tried to make such a shift but without success.
Cengressional opposition mainly stemmed from the doubt that the Bureau of Re-
clamation would do the job effectively and without partisanship. Recently
the idea has popped up that maybe it would be sensible to combine all public
works functions in a new and separate agency. Maybe the Eisenhower committee
will agree.
The Committee is also wrestling with the proposal for the creation of a
single government medical and hospital service as an independent agency or as
part of the Federal Security Agency. The Veterans Administration would cer-
tainly object with or without justification.
Other possible changes include the transfer of the Forest Service from
the Department of Agriculture to Interior; Bureau of Land Management from
Interior to Agriculture and the consolidation of the Department of Agriculture's
various farm credit agencies into a single bureau.
It can be expected that opposition to any changes will appear just as
the various Hoover Commission proposals were denounced by some. The new Con-
gress, Ike and the Public generally must however, seek and approve recrgari-
zation where the facts justify revision. The Hoover Commission stated 5 billion
dollars could be saved each year by streamlining the government with no loss
in services to the public. That would be a nice way to cut expenses and to
help to reduce taxes, The Eisenhower committee can do a great public service
by coming up with some darn good suggestions on reorganization.
Once again we have come to that season when postmasters take aspirin
instead of their morning coffee and letter carriers have horrible nightmares.
Millions of Americans annually express their Christmas cheer by card or by
gift. It's tough on the posteffice department but good for the rest of us to
let our relatives, friends and neighbors know of our good will. Without further
ado the Fords (Mike, Jack, Betty, and Jerry) most emphatically wish to extend
to each ef you our sincere wishes for a Happy and Holy Christmas Season.
FORD LIBRAS)