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Ford Newsletter, Oct.-Dec. 1954
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Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
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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 October 7, 1954
YOUR WASH NGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R.Ford, Jr., M. C.
Congress during the last session approved the finest Housing Act in the history
of the U. S. The new Housing legislation will raisehomm-building standards, help
more of our citizens acquire homes, assist communities in getting rid of slums,
improve older neighborhoods and strengthen our mortgage credit system. Moderni-
zation of the existing housing law has stimulated the home-building industry so that
during 1954 more than 1,150,000 new residences will be constructed. This year will
be at least the second, and perhaps the biggest home-building year in America's
history.
What does the new law accomplish? It makes it possible to buy homes under
FHA insured loans with much smaller down payments. For example, on a $10,000 new
home, under FHA, a buyer previously had to make a down payment of $1250.00 Now
the down payment can be only $700.
This up-to-date yousing law liberalizes the terms on which mortgage loans on
existing homes can be obtained, thus broadening the potential group of families to
be aided. The Republican Housing Act provides an entirely new means of using private
capital to make mortgage money available fo home loans. Overall the new provisions
make it easier for all our citizens, farmer and city dweller alike, to borrow money
for a home from a local loaning institution.
President Eisenhower is a firm believer in philosophy that good and ample
housing for Americans is a good investment in the future of the Nation. This last
Congress responded to #Ike's" recommendation, and as a result we now have a
Housing law that will help prospective home buyers, and provide a tremendous stimu-
lant to the building industry.
Very recently President Eisenhower outlined a $50 billion program to overhaul
and modernize the Nation's highway system. Ike emphasized that transportation delays
were nullifying the country's gains in productive efficiency.
The President advocated a systematic approach to the highway proglem. First,
a perfected plan for access highways and farm-to-market movements, plus a solution
to metropolitan-area conjestion such as the eradication of bottlenecks, and parking.
Second, financing based on self liquidation of each project where feasible by state
and federal gas-tax revenues or tolls. Third, a coo erative al iance between the
Federal Government and the states so that local government will be the manager
of its own area.
To get the "ball rolling" this past Congress increased by approximately
$500 million the F deral monies available annually to the states for road works.
The House and Senate in 1954 practically doubled the federal-aid-to-highway program,
and as a result all of our highways will be expanded and improved. The next Congress
under Ike's leadership will take further action to provide highways for our ever-
growing population which is expected to reach 200 million in a few short years.
It should be added that Senator Homer Ferguson lead the fight in the Senate for
more and better roads.
Everyone is becoming quite familiar with the excellent improvements in the
Social Security Act. One provision, however, deserves special comment. Individuals
upon reaching their 72nd birthday now have no restriction on earnings. Under the
old law a person had an earning limitation until the age of 75. Also under the
previous Social Security la a retired person lost his benefits if he earned more
than $75 monthly. This was a cruel and illogical provision. The new law libera-
lizes this by allowing those retired to earn up to $1200.00 annually without loss
of Social Security benefits. It is difficult to justify and earning limitation,
and the Congress certainly acted properly in greatly alleviating this unfair
situation.
Some Democrats have alleged that under President Eisenhower there has been no
bi-partisan foreign policy. The facts, howeger, dearly indicate that Ike's State
Department has steadfastly pursued a bi-partisan foreign policy. In 1953 the Secre-
tary of State, or the Under Secretary, held eight joint meetings with Congressional
leaders of both political parties, and in 1954 there were nine such bi-partisan
conferences to discuss Korea, the Berlin and Geneva Congerences and NATO. Sec. of
State Dulles or his top assistant held a total of 40 meetings in 1953 and 1954
with the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. During the two-year period, Mr
Dulles met with the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, both Republicans and Demo-
crats, on 51 occasions. In these numerous bi-partisan conferences all aspects of
our foreign policy were fully discussed. I can assure you from my own personal ex-
periences that Sc. of State Dulles when he appeared before the Committee on Appro-
priations was always most anxious to get the views of indivual Congressmen of
both political parties, and at the same time keep us fully posted on the most inti-
mate details in foreign policy matters.
LIDRAR
FOR RELEASE October 7, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
Congress during the last session approved the finest Housing Act in the history
of the U. S. The new Housing legislation will raise home-building standards, help
more of our citizens acquire homes, assist communities in getting rid of slums,
improve older neighborhoods and strengthen our mortgate credit system. Moderni-
zation of the existing housing law has stimulated the home-building industry so that
during 1954 more than 1,150,000 new residences will be constructed. This year will
be at least the second, and perhaps the biggest home-building year in America's
history.
What does the new law accomplish? It makes it possible to buy homes under
FHA insured loans with much smaller down payments. For example, on a $10,000 new
home, under FHA, a buyer previously had to make a down payment of $1250.00. Now
the down payment can be only $700.
This up-to-date housing law liberalizes the terms on which mortgage loans on
existing homes can be obtained, thus broadening the potential group of families to
be aided. The Republican Housing Act provides an entirely new means of using private
capital to make mortgage money available for home loans. Overall the new provisions
make it easier for all our citizens, farmer and city dweller alike, to borrow money
for a home from a local loaning institution.
President Eisenhower is a firm believer in philosophy that good and ample
housing for Americans is a good investment in the future of the Nation. This last
Congress responded to "Ike's" recommendation, and as a result we now have a
Housing law that will help prospective home buyers, and provide a tremendous stimu-
lant to the building industry.
Very recently President Eisenhower outlined a $50 billion program to overhaul
and modernize the Nation's highway system. Ike emphasized that transportation delays
were nullifying the country's gains in productive efficiency.
The President advocated a systematic approach to the highway problem, First,
a perfected plan for access highways and farm-to-market movements, plus a solution
to metropolitan-area conjestion such as the eradication of bottlenecks, and parking.
Second, financing based on self liquidation of each project where feasible by state
and federal gas-tax revenues or tolls. Third, a cooperative alliance between the
Federal Government and the states so that local government will be the manager
of its own area.
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
To get the "ball rolling" this past Congress increased by approximately
$500 million the Federal monies available annually to the states for road works.
The House and Senate in 1954 practically doubled the federal-aid-to-highway program,
and as a result all of our highways will be expanded and improved. The next Congress
under Ike's leadership will take further action to provide highways for our ever-
growing population which is expected to reach 200 million in a few short years.
It should be added that Senator Homer Ferguson lead the fight in the Senate for
more and better roads.
Everyone is becoming quite familiar with the excellent improvements in the
Social Security Act. One provision, however, deserves special comment. Individuals
upon reaching their 72nd birthday now have no restriction on earnings. Under the
old law a person had an earning limitation until the age of 75. Also under the
previous Social Security lan a retired person lost his benefits if he earned more
than $75 monthly. This was a cruel and illogical provision. The new law libera-
lizes this by allowing those retired to earn up to $1200.00 annually without loss
of Social Security benefits. It is difficult to justify any earning limitation,
and the Congress certainly acted properly in greatly alleviating this unfair
situation.
Some Democrats have alleged that under President Eisenhower there has been no
bipartisan foreign policy. The facts, however, clearly indicate that Ike's State
Department has steadfastly pursued a bi-partisan foreign policy. In 1953 the Secre-
tary of State, or the Under Secretary, held eight joint meetings with Congressional
leaders of both political parties, and in 1954 there were nine such bi-partisan
conferences to discuss Korea, the Berlin and Geneva Conferences and NATO. Sec. of
State Dulles or his top assistant held a total of 40 meetings in 1953 and 1954
with the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. During the two-year period, Mr.
Dulles met with the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, both Republicans and Demo-
crats, on 51 occasions. In these numerous bi-partisan conferences all aspects of
our foreign policy were fully discussed. I can assure you from my own personal ex-
periences that Sec. of State Dulles when he appeared before the Committee on Appro-
priations was always most anxious to get the views of individual Congressmen of
both political parties, and at the same time keep us fully posted on the most inti-
mate details in foreign policy matters.
FOR RELEASE October 14, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
The political campaign has already generated considerable controversy. I
hope in the few weeks before November 2nd everyone will make a maximum effort to
learn the facts and then exercise that priceless privilege of voting.
On the national level where our citizens vote for United States Senator and
Representative, the issues are extremely clear cut. As you know, Senator Homer
Ferguson is the Republican candidate for the Senate. His Democrat opponent is
Patrick V. McNamara of Detroit, a veteran labor leader in the AF of L. In the race
for Congressman from the Fifth Michigan District, the Democrat candidate is Robert
S. McAllister. The Republican candidate is the author of this weekly column and I
guess you should know him.
What is the fundamental issue in this hard-fought political campaign? The
consensus is that a vote for a Republican candidate means approval of President
Eisenhower's legislative program and policies, while a vote for the Democrat candi-
dates indicates disapproval of Ike's administration.
It should be pointed out that in the 83rd Congress the Republicans in the
House and Senate supported Ike 82 per cent of the time on roll call votes. On the
other hand Democrats in the Congress voted for the Eisenhower program 45 per cent
of the time.
To be more specific, what has been the Eisenhower "batting average" of
Senator Ferguson and your own Congressman during 1953 and 1954. Senator Ferguson
actively supported Ike on 83 per cent of the Eisenhower-issue roll calls during
the two sessions of the last Congress. The records indicate that 126 Senate roll
calls in 1953-1954 were clear-cut tests of President Eisenhower's program and
leadership. Senator Ferguson's excellent "batting average" in favor of the Fresi-
dent's program certainly justifies his appointment as Republican Policy Leader in
the Senate.
Here are the facts on your Congressman's record. In the 83rd Congress I
actively supported Ike's program 92 per cent of the time. This is the second
highest "pro-Ike" batting average among the 435 members in the House of Representa-
tives. In the House there were 72 roll call votes that were clear-cut tests of the
President's program and policies. Naturally I am pleased to report that my score-
card shows substantial support for our President, but at the same time the record
indicates that your Congressman has not been a "rubber-stamp." The President has
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
sponsored and recommended sound legislation aimed at Peace, Progress and Prosperity,
but under our form of government there is always room for honest differences of
opinion.
Since the two Democrat candidates previously mentioned were not members of
the 83rd Congress, there is no definite voting record available. It appears fair
to say, however, that from the overall Democrat voting in the Congress and the
platform of the candidates, Ike's legislative policies would be generally disapproved
by them. As stated at the outset the issues are clear and the verdict now rests
with the American people on November 2nd.
The United States Coast Guard Academy at New London, Conn. is an outstanding
educational institution. High School graduates, if interested in becoming a Coast
Guard officer, can take a competitive examination to be given Feb. 28, 1955. Young
men interested in a fine education at Uncle Sam's expense, and a constructive
career with the Coast Guard should write me and I will be glad to give them all
details concerning the application and examination.
The Department of Agriculture under Secretary of Agriculture Benson has
published a 1954 Yearbook entitled, "Marketing." This fine book is packed with
facts about the complex system that moves American farm products to their users. It
is a 520 page volume with 18 sections and 88 chapters. It was written by 117
marketing specialists from the Department of Agriculture and our agricultural colleges.
This Yearbook should provide excellent information for farmers, housewives,
wholesalers and retailers. As a member of Congress I have a limited supply for
free distribution to residents of Kent and Ottawa counties. If such a book will
be helpful, write me - Rep. Gerald R. Ford, Jr., 518 Michigan Trust Building, Grand
Rapids, Michigan, or, 321 House Office Building, Washington 25, D. C. I will be glad
to make the copies available as long as the supply lasts.
VISITORS: Don R. Vos, Zeeland, Bob Harkema, Holland, and Bob Sullivan and Miss
Myrtle McCorriston of Grand Rapids.
LIBRARY
FOR RELEASE October 21, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
There is plenty of good news these days about how the U. S. economy is moving
forward. The many favorable reports fit in with President Eisenhower's program
of Peace, Prosperity, and Progress. For example the September report for the con-
struction industry indicates that totals for future construction east of the Rockies
will make 1954 the biggest year in history. New orders to American industry are
10 per cent above January 1954, and TV output is up to the highest level in twenty
months. Steel production is moving upward steadily, and is now 6 per cent above
what it was a few months ago. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a total of
111,000 new housing units were started in August with no sign of a let-up in home-
building. The rate for the months of January through August in 1954 is 3 per cent
above 1953. Another encouraging sign is the 7 per cent increase in 1954 in agri-
culture exports. Greater sales of American farm products abroad will be reflected
in better prices paid to U. S. farmers. Overall the American economy is sound and
prosperous despite the dire predictions of some who hate to admit that under Ike
and his Republican Administration we can have prosperity without war.
One of the best but least advertised programs of the last Congress is the
one designed to expand our local hospitals of all kinds, and to increase medical
research. A sound health program conserves our human resources. The 83rd Congress
approved a three-year health program to cost $182,000,000. It authorizes federal
grants on a joint-participating basis to non-profit organizations for the construs
tion of diagnostic centers, hospitals for the chronically 111, rehabilitation centers
and nursing homes.
Medical research experts testified before Congressional committees in 1954
that scientists were near the "break-through" point in the wall of ignorance on
many of the fatal diseases. Therefore this last Congress with Ike's support increased
federal expenditures for research to determine the cause and cure of many human
ailments. The House and Senate upped our government's expenditures in the field
of cancer, heart disease, neurological diseases, including blindness and deafness,
and mental disorders, by over $4 million. The Congress in these four vital areas
appropriated close to $60 million so that in the future we will have a healthier
nation. The expansion of medical research by the Congress is an investment in the
future for all of us. Each year disease causes tremendous losses in wages and
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
expensive medical and hospital care. It 1s sound economy for the Congress to do
what is essential in an effort to lessen this burden on the American people,
Under the Eisenhower Administration the women in American have been appointed
to a greater number of important positions in the federal government. Ike has opened
the doors of government for greater participation by women in the guiding of our
nation's policies. More than 40 top-level posts under President Eisenhower have
been filled by highly qualified women. Mrs. Clare Booth Luce 1s our successful
Ambassador to Italy. Mrs. Oveta Culp Hobby is the head of the Department of Health,
Education, and Welfare. In all, there are eight women serving in important State
Department posts; six in the United Nations; nine in the Department of Defense;
nine in Treasury, including the Treasurer of the U. s.; four in the Justice Depart-
ment; six in the Labor Department, and dozens of others in almost every other agency
of the Federal Government.
Not 80 many years ago "women's suffrage" was a hot political issue. The
"ladies" fought for and now have the right to vote. Under Ike more than ever before
they have been actively participating in policy-making posts in our government.
Here is good news for dairy farmers. According to a recent report issued
by the Department of Agriculture under Secretary Benson, recombined dairy products
have long since passed the experimental stage. Experience to date demonstrates
beyond any doubt that this recombining process can be commercially successful. If
so, what does it mean to the dairy farmer? There are hundreds of millions of
people throughout the world, especially in the Far East, for whom the availability
of recombined dairy products might well be the balance between existing and really
living. It all means that in the near future our foreign markets will be tremendous-
ly expanded for dairy products.
FORD LIBRARY
FOR RELEASE October 28, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
A non-partisan analysis of the recorded roll calls in the House and Senate in
1953 - 1954 conclusively show that Republicans in the Congress supported President
Eisenhower far more than the Democrats, The GOP pro-Ike "batting average" was 82
per cent while the Democrats helped him only 45 per cent of the time. As your Con-
gressman, I backed "Ike" 92 per cent and Senator Ferguson was in there pitching with
a similar record.
Adlai Stephenson and other Democrat "soap boxers" contend the GOP is a party
of disunity. Again the facts prove the opposite to be true. In the 83rd Congress
a majority of Republicans voted together 77 per cent while the Democrats were in
unison only 66 per cent of the time. A1 Smith, the Democrat candidate for President
in 1928, used to say, "Let's look at the record" to prove his point in campaign
speeches. It would appear that present-day Democrat orators deliberately ignore
the facts in their pleas for wter support. Words can not distort the record. The
records indicate the Republicans backed Ike and had a far higher "party-unity" score.
In addition GOP lawmakers answered roll calls and took stands more often
than Democrats in the past two Congressional sessions. Republican members of the
House and Senate in 1953 - 1954 led in voting participation with a score of 88 per
cent. The Democrat congressmen trailed with an 83 per cent average.
In the past there has been some criticism that members of Congress often
failed to "go on record" on controversial issues. The Republicans in the last
two years went "on the record" more often, scoring 92 per cent to an 89 per cent
average for Democrats. As your Congressman in 1953 - 1954, I went "on record"
97 per cent on legislative matters before the House. Senator Ferguson's "batting
average" on vote participation was 97 per cent.
All of the above facts and figures can be found in the Congressional Quarterly,
a non-partisan authority on the voting records of the House and Senate.
A few days ago I discussed agriculture problems with a farmer in Ottawa
County who pointed out that farm prices for small and medium-sized eggs had
dropped in recent weeks. He demonstrated the seriousness of this situation, but
he mostly complained about the fact that the cost of feed for his chickens was
abnormally high in comparison with the prices he received for his poultry products.
LIBRARY
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2.
This problem forcibly brings out the unsoundness of the old farm price-
support program as it affects Michigan farmers. The so-called Brannon price-support
legislation kept feed prices "out of sight" to the detriment of Michigan dairy and
poultry farmers. The Brannon farm program discriminated against our Michigan
farmers and benefitted the big commercial grain farmers in the western states.
Secretary of Agriculture Benson's policies will definitely help our dairy and
poultrymen by bringing a proper relationship between the cost of feed and the farmer's
market price on eggs, chickens, and dairy products. The Brannon policies started
the serious price squeeze on farmers in early 1952. The old Agriculture Act would
have perpetuated this inequity. The Benson program will wipe out the discrimination
against Michigan farmers, but all can agree you can't undo all the damage overnight.
Let me assure ever farmer in Kent and Ottawa counties that President Eisenhower and
his farm program will wipe out discrimination and the injustices of the Brannon
policies, and furthermore the situation will be remedied with the United States at
peace and not engaged in war.
Here are some concrete examples of what has been done by the last Congress
on the dairy problems. The House and Senate appropriated an additional $50 million
for a special school milk program. This will materially increase the consumption
of fluid milk by our children under the school-lunch program. In addition the
Army, Navy, and Air Force have been directed to double the availability of fluid
milk for servicemen. U. S. foreign aid funds, because of Congressional action in
1954, can now be used to purchase government-owned dairy products. This, for some
unknown reason, was not possible under the Truman administration. This new program
will benefit both our dairy farmers and the foreign-aid program. The Republican
Congress also doubled the brucellosis eradiation program and Secretary Benson, on
October 7th, put the expanded policy in operation.
The Department of Agriculture in Washington is seriously considering a
proposal to use federal school-lunch funds to purchase eggs. Such action by the
Department would definitely strengthen the egg market and add another good food
item to the diet for our school children.
On Tuesday, November 2nd, there will be a vital election for all Americans.
Under our two-party system the issues are clear cut. President Eisenhower's program
in the past two years brought an end to the Korean War and substantially reduced
draft calls. Ike's firm policies removed 6,926 security risks, including subversives
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 3
in high places, from the federal payroll.
Communism in government has been
ended under the GOP. Federal taxes have been cut substantially by Republicans
after 20 years of increased taxes and lower personal exemptions. Government ex-
penses have been slashed and corruption eliminated. Most important, the United
States for the first time in history has moved from wartime economy to an era of
peace without a depression. Under peacetime Ike's policies there are 62 million
Americans gainfully employed and economic conditions look even better for the
months ahead.
Be certain to vote November 2nd, and remember the facts and issues in this
all-important election.
CORD LIBRARY
FOR RELEASE November 4, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
A number of citizens have asked the question: Will the House of Representatives
reconvene in Washington, D. C., on November 8th when the Senate returns to pass
judgment on the Watkins Committee report. The answer is no. Both the Senate and
House agreed to a consurrent resolution on August 20th by which the House of Repre-
sentatives adjourned sine die that day, but gave its consent to final Senate adjourn-
ment "at any time prior to December 25, 1954, when the Senate shall so determine."
Article 1, Section 5, of the Federal Constitution requires neither the House nor the
Senate may adjourn for more than three days without consent of the other.
No one knows how long the Senate may be in session after November 8th, but
one could guess the debate may last several weeks. Once the Senate concludes its
business, the Congress will not reconvene until January 5, 1954, unless the President
calls a special session.
Someone recently checked the comparative workloads of Presidents Washington
isenhower, and came up with interesting statistical data that indicates Ike's
is quite a bit heavier. For instance, George Washington received 118 bills to sign
into law throughout the entire 1st Congress, and Ike Eisenhower a total of 1,783
during this last Congress, the 83rd.
President Washington prepared the first federal budget on one sheet of paper,
while the latest Presidential budget fills an 1,182 page volume, running to more
than 1.5 million words. In 1791 President Washington appointed 65 persons to
federal jobs; in 1954 President Ike made approximately 3,400 civilian nominations.
********** ************
Did the 83rd Congress conduct more investigations than any of its prede-
cessors? A careful check of the facts shows that the 83rd Congress launched 215
inquiries. This total is less than the record established by the 82nd Congress.
In 1951 and 1952 the House and Senate undertook 236 probes, and as a result holds
the record as the "investigatingest" Congress in history.
Chief subject for probing in the 83rd Congress was internal security and
Communist infiltration. There were 29 investigations in this field during the
past two years, and resulted in the strongest anti-communist legislation in the
history of the United States.
Incidentally, the first Congressional probe was undertaken back in 1792,
when the House and Senate sought the reasons General St. Clair's expedition against
LIBRARY
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
the Indians had failed. Except for the Spanish-American War every armed conflict
in which U. S. forces have fought has been examined by one or more Congressional
committees.
Specific instances of economy in government should be interesting to our
taxpayers. Here are a few good examples of what Ike's economy policy has accom-
plished. $67,000,000 was saved in 1953 through better purchasing techniques adopted
by the General Services Administration. $2,000,000 in annual maintenance charges
on Government automobiles is being saved through reduction of the Government's huge
fleet of cars by 7,000 vehicles. Over $500,000 a year is being saved simply by
allowing each Federal Reserve Bank to cancel and burn its own worn-out paper currency,
instead of requiring that it be shipped to Washington for destruction. A new letter-
writing and filing system in Internal Revenue promises to save $5,500,000 a year.
Each of these savings may be individually small, but collectively they mean
that the waste and duplication that taxpayers resent has been squeezed from the
Federal budget. In the huge totals of Federal spending, small items mount rapidly.
A 10 increase in the average cost of meals served by the Federal Government, for
example, amounts to $25,000,000 a year.
A quarter of a million dollars is being saved by the Defense Department this
year in the purchase of vinegar alone. Previously it cost the taxpayers that much
extra to have manufacturers water down the standard 50-grain vinegar to meet archaic
specifications for 40-grain vinegar under outdated Army purchase rules. The same
vinegar that would have cost $896,800 under the previous Administration purchasing
rules will actually cost the taxpayer only $650,560 this year. This one item,
added to hundreds of other changes brought about in the Defense Department's overhaul
of buying procedures, is contributing to an overall saving of $15,000,000 a year.
$15 million in sound economy represents the total Federal income taxes paid
by all the taxpayers in any average community of 85,000 population.!
Visitors in Washington: Mr. Charles H. Smith, Mr. Kenneth Welch, Mr. Jerome
Rotenberg, and Mr. Ernest Giddings, all of Grand Rapids.
FOR RELEASE November 11, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
The 1954 elections are now history except for whatever recounts there may
be in the close contests throughout the Nation. Although we have no recount problem
in Michigan this year, there were statewide contests in New York, New Jersey,
Montana, and Oregon where every single vote made a vast difference. Let no indi-
vidual citizen in any election discount the importance of his or her vote. Though
neglect a lack of voter participation can undermine our government. Inattention
to the business of government can destroy the principles upon which our Republic
was founded.
Speaking personally for the entire Ford family (Betty, Mike, Jack, and myself),
I want to express our real appreciation for the wonderful assistance during this
past campaign. Without the unselfish and tireless cooperation of friends in
Ottawa and Kent Counties, the result might have been far different. I wish it were
possible to thank personally each and every helper, and I will try to do just that
to the utmost of my ability. In the meantime, let me re-emphasize my sincere
gratitude and in the months ahead I hope and trust my efforts will warrant continued
support and understanding.
During the recent campaign your Congressman pointed out that the Communist
Party was doing all that it could to defeat the Eisenhower legislative program. On
a television program I illustrated a pamphlet put out in April 1954 by the Communist
Party which severely criticizes Ike and what the Republican 83rd Congress did in
1953 and 1954.
Several viewers of this TV program doubted that this Communist propaganda
was actually being disseminated among our citizens. It sounded altogether too
fantastic. Nevertheless it is true, and a few days after the election I received
corroborating evidence. A copy of this Communist Party booklet, which by their own
admission is a statement of their proposed policies, was turned over to me by a
resident of Kent County. Apparently it had been mailed a few days before the election
by a local agent of the Communist Party for the envelope had a Grand Rapids postmark.
The pamphlet itself was published in New York City, and on the last page it ad-
vertises a number of other "pro-Red" publications.
As I stated on the television program, the Communist Party should hate and
oppose President Eisenhower and the Republican Party because during the past two
years the Congress enacted the strongest anti-communist legislation in the history
of the Nation. The new anti-trator laws will make it increasingly difficult for
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW page 2
the "commies" to spread their insidious propaganda and deceive our citizens. The
FBI and the Department of Justice now have the necessary tools plus a President who
wants action in eradicating the scourge of Communism. Please remember, however,
that all citizens must be alert themselves and report to responsible government
authorities Communist activities wherever they might be. In this way the FBI will
be materially aided in its never-ending fight against an enemy that seeks to over-
throw our government by any means whatsoever.
One of the after effects of this past election will be the fate of the so-
called Dixon-Yates contract. Certainly between now and January 5, 1955, and also
during the next Congress, the public will get more than an earful on this issue.
What is the fundamental problem? The answer is simple. Should the federal
government build and operate an electrical power plant, or should the federal govern-
ment make a contract to buy electric power from a regulated public utility? No
one denies that the Atomic Energy Commission needs additional electric power to run
its plants in the Tennessee Valley area. Aside from the details of the contract,
the fundamental question is whether one believes in the free-enterprise system,
or a government monopoly. If the power plant is built by the federal government,
the U. S. treasury will have to shell out in the next year or so $100 million plus
in funds collected from all of the taxpayers in the U. S. The power plant would
then be run exclusively by additional government employees. If the power plant is
built by private funds, the federal government will buy the necessary electricity
over a period of 20 years at a rate set forth in the contract and within rigid
regulations provided by Uncle Sam.
Over the years there has been considerable argument pro and con concerning
TVA. For the past 20 years the citizens of the Tennessee Valley have been the
beneficiaries of nearly a billion dollars in funds from the federal treasury for
the development of TVA. From the sale of electricity produced by TVA, a part of
these federal loans have been repaid, but TVA has not paid any interest on the
funds borrowed from Uncle Sam even though your government at the same time has
been forced to borrow money itself with interest to keep operating. In other words
we in Michigan through our government in Washington have loaned money, interest
free, to TVA so that electric rates in that area of the Nation could be lower than
our own. Leaving aside all other issues, I fail to see why TVA cannot stand on its
own and pay legitimate interest on the money it has borrowed from our government,
and indirectly from all of us.
FOR RELEASE November 18, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jrw, M. C.
It is with deep regret that an announcement must be made that my Administrative
Assistant, John Milanowski, 18 leaving the office in Washington on December 31st,
to return to the practice of law in Grand Rapids. At the same time I am very
pleased to anneunce that Frank Meyer of Grand Haven will succeed John.
Over the past six years the successful handling of many constituent problems
has resulted solely from the competent, energetic and conscientieus wark of my
entire staff. John, as my Administrative Assistant in charge of the office, has
done an outstanding job. Every citizen who had a problem, DAE or small, from Kent
or Ottawa counties has had maximum attention, and as à result & great mary matters
involving federal agencies and departments have been satisfactorily dolved, I am
certain John will do extremely well as an attorney in Western Michigam, and he
certainly has our best wishes for success and happiness in every respect.
Frank Meyer who will take ever on January 1st, worked on a non-paid status
in our Washington office for about nine months in 1953 and 1954 while in the
Nation's Capital on a Ford Foundation Fellowship. He is a graduate of Western
Michigan College, and has his Masters Degree from the University of Michigan. For
nineteen years Frank has taught American Histery and Government courses in Wayland
and Grand Haven, the last eighteen years in the Junior and Senior M school
in Grand Haven.
Frank Meyer has long been active in community projects such as the Red Cross
and the Community Chest. He had a taste of polities as City Alderman in Grand
Haven for two terms, 1943 through 1947. As a teacher Frank has been active in
the Michigan Education Association, and has written a number of articles for
educational journals. Since 1945, he has moderated the Grand Haven Community
Round Table, a very worthwhile local discussion group. He has been pasgicularly
active in his church as superintendent of the Sunday School and member of the
consistory. Frank, Mrs. Meyer and their four fine children, three boys and a girl,
will come to Washington for the opening of the new session of the Congress.
A non-partisan survey of the new Congress indicates the average Senator will
be slightly over 57 years of age. This is a bit older average than the last
Republican Congres. The oldest Democrat is Senator Green of Rhode Island, who
is 87, while Senator Martin of Pennsylvania tops the Republicans at 75. The
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YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
average age of those serving in the House of Representatives in 1955 and 1956
will be slightly over 51 years, a minor change from the two preceeding years.
Lawyers will again predominate in the 84th Congress, accounting for nearly
two-thirds of the membership. Ninety-seven per cent in the Senate and 88 per cent
in the House have had prior experience in politics or civic service. Former
members of the Armed Forces will likewise dominate the new Congress as they have
in the past. Sixty-three percent of the Senators and 58 per cent of the Repre-
sertatives are veterans of the Army, Navy, or Air Force. The 17 women who won
their way into the 84th Congress brought the lady representation on Capitol Hill
to a record high. The 1954 election victors included all 13 women incumbents who
sought re-election and four newcomers to the Congressional scene. Michigan has
two in the group, Miss Ruth Thompson from the 9th District, and Mrs. Martha W.
Griffiths of the 17th in the Detroit area.
With the new Congress scheduled to get underway January 5th, a number of
citizens in Kent and Ottawa counties have asked me what effect the swing from Re-
publican to Democrat control will have on my own committee assignment. In the
next two years your Congressman will undoubtedly remain on the Committee on Appro-
priations. Because one of the representatives who was ahead of me on the seniority
list ran for the Senate from New Hampshire and was successful, I will move up a
notch on the ladder.
The big change from a personal point of view will be the loss of the chairman-
ship of the Army subcommittee on Appropriations. Under the Democrat regime Con-
gressman Sikes of Florida will become "head man" of my former committee that has
jurisdiction over all funds for the Department of the Army. It is quite likely
that I will remain a member of the Army Appropriations subcommittee, but divested
of the chairmanship.
During the past two years, in addition to my work on Army matters, I have
served as one of 12 members of the subcommittee dealing with the foreign assistance
program. It is quite likely that in the realignment of the Congress, your Con-
gressman will lose this assignment because the Democrats will kick off most of
the Republicans and fill the vacancies with Democrats.
VISITORS: Mr. Philip L. Anderson and son, Mike of Grand Rapids; Mr. Allen M.
Van Zantwick of Grand Haven.
FOR RELEASE November 25, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
The latest monthly report of the Joint Committee on Reduction of Non-
essential Federal Expenditures reveals a sizeable drop in the number of federal
employees. Comparing August and September, 1954, there was a net decrease of
13,943 employees. Incidentally, the Army reported the biggest cutback, with a
tdal of almost 7,000 in one month. The reduction continues the two-year downward
trend of civilian employment by Uncle Sam. For example, in September, 1954, there
were 84,245 less federal employees than a year ago. These cutbacks in non-essential
jobs mean a sizeable reduction in Uncle Sam's spending which in turn justifies lower
federal taxes.
One of the big controversies during the 83rd Congress involved the so-called
"tidelands" issue. There were extremists on both sides who shouted and screamed.
The federal monopolists cried, "giveaway." The states-righters yelled, "giveback."
The Congress solved the problem by enacting legislation whereby Uncle Sam retains
uncontested title to over 13 billion barrels of oil with a potential value of 34
billion dollars. In the compromise the various states now own submerged land with
a potential oil reserve of one and three-quarters billion barrels at an estimated
value of slightly over 4 billion dollars. In other words the federal government
ended up with approximately 89 per cent of the off-shore oil reserves.
A few days ago the Department of the Interior announced the results of the
first competitive bids for the sale of rights to drill beneath the sea for gas,
oil, and sulphur. The federal treasury (the nation's taxpayers) will immediately
receive $130 million in cash through the competitive sale of this limited number
of exploration rights in the Gulf of Mexico area. The biggest returns to the
treasury are yet to come for in addition to these sizeable cash bonuses for ex-
ploration leases, the individuals who leased the undersea lands must pay rentals to
Uncle Sam of $3 per acre per year, and later, 16 2/3rds per cent of gross income
from the minerals produced and sold. Some of the submerged tracts which the De-
partment of Interior leased were up to 50 miles from shore and under 100 feet of
salt water.
Experience to date proves conclusively that the 83rd Congress solved the
"tidelands" issue to the best advantage of all the taxpayers of the United States.
The income to be derived from the leasing of the mineral rights will help to
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lighten the tax load of all federal taxpayers, and at the same time improve the
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YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
financial picture of Uncle Sam's treasury.
Recently released figures indicate that military aircraft procurement involves
more than 4.5 per cent of this Nation's total industrial output. This fact alone
should justify every citizen's concern, but in addition the development and pro-
duction of military planes is closely tied in with the safety and economic well-being
of the United States.
Under the management of Secretary of Defense Wilson, the military-industrial
team is now saving hundreds of millions of U. S. tax dollars each year by delivering
more air power for dollars invested. The Air Force is steadily realizing economies
in management, production, transportation, performance, and maintenance.
Here are five examples. First, the Air Force found its buying efficiency
could be greatly improved by decentralizing-placing its purchasing personnel closer
to sources of supply. This means less communications difficulty, and a better
knowledge of industry's problems, all of which saves time and money on major
production contracts. Second, because qualified, tested engines proved to be so
exactly alike, a statistical sampling program of inspection was introduced. In-
cidentally your Congressman personally saw the benefits of this "quality control"
program during a recent visit to the General Motors aircraft plant in Grand Rapids.
Third, after detailed examination of Air Force supply methods a new system
was set up to expedite the delivery of high-priority items to various bases. Such
a program keeps depot inventories to a minimum. Under the old program the Air Force
had millions invested in inventories that eventually became obsolete without being
used. Fourth, there was a tremendous increase in the life expectancy of jet engines
which has helped increase actual hours of engine life as much as three times before
overhaul. In the new repair program, engines are serviced at Air Foree bases instead
of being shipped back to overhaul depots for maintenance. This change in the system
saved over a $100 million. Fifth, routine reconditioning of planes wasstreamlined
and simplified so that in one twelve-month period expenditures were reduced $80
million.
America can and must be strong in the air. The Air Force now has jet planes
in all its required combat units, and this has been accomplished at less cost to
the taxpayers in the past months by the cooperative effort of our men in uniform,
our workers in hundreds of factories, and our industrial leaders.
FOR RELEASE December 2, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
President Eisenhower, according to various authoritative reports, has re-
emphasized his request to all government departments that every non-essential federal
service be eliminated. This action will be reflected in the budget which Ike will
submit in January, 1955, to the new Congress. By cutting out non-essential programs
the federal budget and our tax burdens can be reduced.
In addition the Eisenhower administration is moving on all fronts to take
the government out of competition with private industry as much as possible. In
other words if a local citizen or business can do the job as cheap or cheaper, than
the federal government should discontinue the operation. These decisions will
be based on factual costs comparisons. Already under this sound system, 2600 contracts
of a housekeeping nature have been awarded to private firms in the Washington D. C
area, and cover such services as window washing and repair of equipment used by
Uncle Sam.
A few days ago your Congressman ran across some interesting facts about TVA.
As of the 1953 report the federal government has invested $803 million in TVA over
the past 18 years or SO. As of that report TVA has repaid the federal treasury
$81 million. All of the millions TVA has borrowed from Uncle Sam are completely
interest free, which means that the citizen-taxpayers in Michigan and elsewhere in
the U. S. are helping to subsidize the low electric power rates that exist in the
Tennessee Valley area. The payment of interest on funds borrowed from the federal
treasury would help to take TVA off the backs of all our taxpayers and stop the
subsidization of power rates in that area at the expense of taxpayers throughout
the rest of the country. TVA by law is supposed to be "self-supporting and self-
liquidating." Let's make it so by requiring that it construct its electricity-
generating facilities under the same rules that prevail elsewhere in the U. S.
Democrat control of the next Congress means complete control over all
Senate and House committees. These committees determine what legislation is to be
considered and in addition, through the Committee on Rules, when any legislation
will be on the agenda.
In the House of Representatives most committee chairmen in the 84th Congress
are from southern states. In the Senate most prospective chairmen are also from below
the Mason-Dixon Line.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
In the field of foreign affairs Senator George of Georgia and Representative
Richards of South Carolina will be chairmen of the two committees and both have
a reputation for supporting bi-partisan foreign policy. Ike shouldn't have trouble
here. On appropriation matters Congressman Cannon of Missouri and Senator Hayden of
Arizona will be the "bosses." Both are apt to be more liberal in spending federal
funds than their Republican predecessors or President Eisenhower.
On labor-management legislation the Senate committee will be headed by Senator
Hill of Alabama. He is considered favorable to repeal of the Taft-Hartley Act and
re-enactment of the Wagner Act. Representative Barden of North Carolina, who will
chairman the House Committee on Education and Labor, is not too friendly to the
CIO, the AFL, and the United Mine Workers. This apparent conflict between the two
chairmen undoubtedly means a hassle in the Congress over legislation of this type.
In the House and Senate both of the prospective Agriculture Committee chairmen
(Senator Ellender of Louisiana and Rep. Cooley of North Carolina) fought Ike and
Secretary Benson in 1954 on the new farm legislation. During the past political
campaign they espoused policies advocated by former Secretary of Agriculture Brannon
so the new Congress will likely have before it a bill to revert to the old law. If
the House and Senate take such action the President will undoubtedly veto the proposal.
The prognosticators forecast there are not enough votes in the new Congress to over-
ride such a veto by Ike.
Tax legislation will certainly be on the legislative agenda in 1955 for on
April 1st thereis a scheduled cut to pre-Korean levels in corporation rates and some
excise taxes. Rep. Jere Cooper of Tennessee will be head man on the Committee on
Ways and Means while Senator Byrd of Virginia, will be chairman of the Committee on
Finance in the Senate. There may be some conflict between the two on any proposed
tax legislation. Because of the April 1st deadline it will be one of the first "big"
issues before the 84th Congress.
On matters relating to the Army, Navy, and Air Force, two legislators from
Georgia, Rep. Vinson and Senator Russell, will preside over the Committees on Armed
Services. Both are advocates of an adequate national defense program, and will
undoubtedly support Ike on such measures. Actually there is very little political
partisanship on this vital issue.
This overall summary clearly points out that when the Congress "goes Democrat"
the southerners in effect control the House and Senate. It will be most interesting
to see what path is charted and followed in the months ahead by the political leaders
from below the Mascn-Dixon Line.
FOR RELEASE December 9, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
After January 5th the Congress will be controlled by the Democrats and there
is much speculation about whether Ike will exercise his right of veto on legislation
and if so, how often. President Eisenhower used the veto sparingly in the 83rd
Congress and the House and Senate in 1953 and 1954 did not over-ride any such action
by him as Chief Executive.
The question is often asked, what is the difference between a regular and a
pocket veto. Under the Constitution the President can veto a bill by refusing to
sign it into law and returning it to the Chamber of Congress (House or Senate) in
which it originated, without his approval. This is the so-called regular veto
procedure. Normally when a bill is so vetoed the President returns the rejected
legislation with a written explanation setting forth the reasons for his disapproval.
If the President fails to sign a bill within 10 days after it has been received
at the White House (Sundays excepted), the bill becomes law automatically, provided
the House and Senate are in session through the 10-day period. If the Congress
should adjourn before expiration of the 10-day limit, the bill fails to become law
by the process known as the "pocket veto."
Incidentally eight Presidents--John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, John Quincy
Adams, Martin Van Buren, William Henry Harrison, Zachary Taylor, Millard Fillmore,
and James A. Garfield--failed to use either the regular or pocket veto power. Former
President Harry S. Truman was a prolific user of the veto, particularly during the
80th Congress. Interestingly, Mr. Truman vetoed the tax-reduction bill in 1948 when
the Republican House and Senate increased the personal income tax exemption from
$500 to $600. The Congress promptly overrode this veto.
At the moment it is difficult to forecast with any degree of accuracy what
the new Congress will do on legislative matters or what Ike's reaction will be to
bills submitted to him in the next two years.
President Eisenhower is not one to "play politics" on vital issues affecting
the Nation's welfare. In 1955 and 1956 it would be wise for the Democrat leaders
in the House and Senate to keep their eyes off the 1956 elections and concentrate
on what is best for the Nation as a whole. It would be tragic for the United States
and our anti-communist allies to have America's leadership imperiled by two years
of political jockeying,
LEBRARY
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW- page 2
The column this week was written from the Nation's Capitol. The Fords, Betty,
Mike, Jack, and Dad, are all back in Washington getting ready for the new session.
Your Congressman has some committee work to finish up before the 83rd Congress
expires January 5, 1955. In the meantime, my office in Grand Rapids will be open
with my Administrative Assistant, John Milanowski, and my Secretary, Miss Irene
Schroeder, ready and willing to handle any problems. After January 5th, the
office at 518 Michigan Trust Building will be open on a part-time basis with John
handling any matters locally.
What happens to Presidential nominations which are neither confirmed nor re-
jected by the Senate during the session at which they are submitted? For example
what is the status of Ike's nomination of U. S. Circuit Judge Harlan to the Supreme
Court now that the Senate adjourned December 2nd without taking any action on this
matter.
Under Senate rules, nominations which receive no final action by the end of
a session or before the Senate adjourns or recesses for more than 30 days are sent
back to the White House. This means they must be re-submitted at the next Senate
session or when the Senate reconvenes if the President still wants action on them.
In Judge Harlan's case Fresident Eisenhower must re-submit his nomination after
January 5, 1955 and at that time the new Senate will approve or reject him for the
vacancy on the U. S. Supreme Court. In the meantime, the highest court in the
Nation will function with 8 instead of 9 members.
VISITORS: Dr. and Mrs. E. J. Grass and children, Mike and Flora, from Grand Rapids.
FOR RELEASE December 23, 1954
Y UR WASHINGT 1 R VIEW
By Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
The United States and 46 other members of the United Nations have rightfully
condemned Red China for holding 11 American airmen in jail in direct violation of
the terms of the Korean Armistice. Only Soviet Russia and 4 nations behind the Iron
Curtain defended the illegal action of the Chinese Communist regime. By an over-
whelming vote the head of the U. N. was instructed to seek the immediate release of
these U. S. airmen who were shot down behind the lines while on a military mission
during the Korean War.
In the last few days there have been suggestions made from varicus authori-
tative sources that the U. S. release 35 Chinese detainees for the return of American
military and civilian personnel now held by the Chinese Reds. Should the problem
be resolved in this manner?
Here is a bit of necessary background information on this proposal. when
munist China entered the Korean War there were approximately 4500 Chinese students
in the U. S. About 450, or 10 per cent, of these students chose to return to China
and the United States has let all but 35 leave for their homeland. The 35 Chinese
who the U. S. will not let go are scientists and technicians whose release might
help Red China militarily and possibly endanger our own national security. These
Chinese who want to go back are not imprisoned in this country. They must, however,
regularly report their whereabouts to the U. S. immigration authorities. Legally
under existing federal laws our government has every right to keep the 35 in the
U. S. if it is determined to be in the national interest.
On the other hand it is accurately estimated that Red China still holds 2840
United Nations prisoners of war, some of whom are undoubtedly Americans, but most are
likely South Koreans. In addition the Red Chinese regime is holding 28 American
civilians in jail, plus 3 priests, who are under limited arrest. Another 11 American
civilians have been unable to get permission to leave Red China, though not techni-
cally under arrest. Finally there are the 11 Air Force fliers and the two civilians
who recently received prison sentences as alleged spies.
President Eisenhower is determined to accomplish the release of the Americans
who are illegally held by the Communists. The United States has won the "first
round" in the action taken by the United Nations and the American delegate to the
U. N., Henry Cabot Lodge, did a remarkably fine job in making Jacob Malik, Russia's
delegate in the debate back-track by exposing the weakness of Red China.
FORD LIBRART
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW - page 2
It may be that an exchange of Chinese detainees and American civilian and
military personnel is the best solution to a hard problem. Certainly the high-
handed action of the Chinese Reds is indefensible either legally or morally. Under
such circumstances the United States should continue to refuse diplomatic recog-
nition of this Communist regime and at the same time emphatically oppose the ad-
mission of Red China to the United Nations. To do otherwise would condone and
excuse the illegal, warlike, and inhuman action of the Chinese Reds.
Betty, our two sons, Mike and Jack, and your Congressman regrettably will not
be in Michigan for the Holidays. The family is in the Nation's Capital so Dad can
get ready for the new session of the Congress. Nevertheless at this sacred season
may all of us join with your other friends in saying "Merry Christmas" to you and
yours.
The story of Bethelem-the newly born and the star-is one oft-told, but one
that never grows old. It is the great story in which all of us can and do find
common ground and identical purpose.
Long may the Spirit of Christmas continue to brighten the hearts, the minds,
and the souls of old and young alike as together again at this time we look to
Bethlehem and the star for everlasting guidance toward a better world in which the
keynote shall be the promised "Peace on Earth."
FOR RELEASE December 30, 1954
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
Dy Gerald R. Ford, Jr., M. C.
With 1955 just "around the corner" your Congressman has a few hopes and
wishes for the New Year.
First and foremost, the Fords extend our very best to all for a happy, healthy,
and successful 1955. With this personal note should be added a hope that in the
months ahead the Peace on Earth of the last eighteen months be made more certain
and secure with the well-being and prosperty of the past expanded and enlarged for
the benefit of all, now and forever more.
With our prayers for the future each of us, regardless of faith, creed or
political belief, should seek Divine Guidance for our President so that he might
continue to have the wisdom and strength to lead according to the Almighty's
will on our behalf. With much of the world enslaved by ruthless, atheistic dic-
tators who seek to perpetuate their rule over millions of peoples and enlarge their
sphere of influence by military or treacherous methods, it is vital for President
Eisenhower to have the full support of our citizens and the whole Free World. It
is Ike's burden, but ours too, to seek, from day to day, the answer to our problems
from the Almighty. Let us hope and pray that our efforts in the New Year will
justify God's blessings.
Michigan, during the Holiday Season, has been in the limelight in the Nation's
Capital. A few days before Christmas, President Eisenhower turned the switch that
lighted over 2000 colorful lights on a 67 foot giant northwood fir that the citizens
of Michigan had sent to Washington. The Nation's Christmas tree stood majestically
on the White House grounds and was the focal point for the Pageant of Peace. Ike's
message for us and for the world, was one to be long remembered. Your Congressman
was proud to see first hand Michigan's contribution to this significant occasion.
In December, 1953 the President delivered his famous "Atom for Peace" speech
before the United Nations. Since that memorable address steady progress has been
made in pursuit of the goal.
Our government officials and agencies have moved ahead with concrete steps
toward developing the peacetime aspects of atomic energy despite the initial cold
shoulder given the proposal by the Soviet Union. Russia originally shrugged eff
Ike's plan but by September, 1954 the USSR indicated a slight willingness to discuss
the proposal.
LIBRARY
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW page 2
At home in Shippingport, Pennsylvania, on Labor Day, ground was broken for
the world's first commercial size atomic power plant. It should be mentioned that
several Michigan companies are likewise in the forefront in this type of a program
which means that our state, its people and their industries, will be among the
first to derive peacetime benefits from atomic energy.
Both the United States and Great Britain have allocated enriched uranium of
non-weapon grade for use in research reactors which friendly foreign nations may
construct. In order that citizens of the other nations may learn the non-military
"know-how" in atomic development, a reactor-training school has been set up by the
Atomic Energy Commission. Training programs in the utilization of atomic energy
in biology, medicine, and agriculture will be offered next year at various colleges
and universities throughout the U. S. to qualified foreign students.
The atomic and hydrogen bombs with their unbelievable destructive force are
fortunately a deterrent to war but at the same time the full utilization of the
peacetime benefits of atomic power can be an equally potent instrument of peace.
President Eisenhower's speech of Decembet 8, 1953 was a challenge which the Free
World has accepted but which to date the Soviet Union and its satellites have failed
to meet,
On January 2, 1955, 8 to 9 p.m. your Congressman is scheduled as one of four
participants on the "America's Town Meeting of the Air." The broadcast will be
over the ABC radio network. WLAV in Grand Rapids will probably carry the program.
Senator Carl Curtis of Nebraska, Senator Patrick V. McNamara of Michigan, Repre-
sentative Richard Bolling of Missouri and I will discuss, "The New Congress."