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This file contains material relating to Dwight Eisenhower, Thomas Kuchel, William Steiger, Hugh Scott, Charles Percy, Albert Quie, Richard Poff, Robert Griffin, George Bush, Catherine May, Bob Mathias, Melvin Laird, Howard Baker, Peter Dominick, John Tower, Charlotte Reid.
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The Republican View of the State of the Union (Ford and other speakers), January 23, 1968
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The Republican View of the State of the Union (Ford and other speakers), January 23, 1968
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This file contains material relating to Dwight Eisenhower, Thomas Kuchel, William Steiger, Hugh Scott, Charles Percy, Albert Quie, Richard Poff, Robert Griffin, George Bush, Catherine May, Bob Mathias, Melvin Laird, Howard Baker, Peter Dominick, John Tower, Charlotte Reid.
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Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
Speeches
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Republican National Committee (U.S.)
Agriculture
Crime
Housing
Inflation (Finance)
International relations
Labor disputes
Middle East conflicts
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Poverty programs
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State of the union messages
Vietnam War, 1961-1975
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1968
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1968
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The original documents are located in Box D23, folder "The Republican View of the State
of the Union (Ford and other speakers), January 23, 1968" of the Ford Congressional
Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Council donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box D23 of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R_Ford Presidential Library
m Office Copy
FOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY
EXCERPTS
--
THE REPUBLICAN VIEW OF
THE STATE OF THE UNION
JANUARY 23, 1968
Statement of General Dwight D. Eisenhower
You and I - all of us - enjoy a precious privilege, that of living under
the greatest self-governing society known to history.
To establish and sustain that society which guarantees to every citizen
equal rights before the law, our Founding Fathers and intervening generations
have fought hard in office. We are the beneficiaries of their work and
sacrifices. A solemn obligation rests upon us today to do no less in our time.
Not merely for ourselves but for our children and for the cause of human liberty
on the earth. Under our two-party method of Government, it is essential that
members of the Party not in power become convinced that new measures and
directions are required to preserve and strengthen our free system. The
reasons for their convictions should be made known to their fellow citizens.
Tonight some of your elected Representatives in the Congress are presenting
to you their views. We of the Republican Party welcome your thoughtful
attention as these views are laid before you. We know that these are
critical times for our beloved country - as critical as any I have known
in my lifetime. The thought, the hard work, the. dedication of ever
citizen are now required if we are to hold true to the ideals of human
dignity and liberty that have meant so much to America and to the world.
Senator Kuchel
A new attitude, new vigor, new direction, new confidence, are now required
if this nation is to stem its headlong descent from a role of leadership held so
long in the world.
In this 20th Century free peoples have looked to America in their struggle
for human liberty. Dwight Eisenhower brought like-minded nations together for
collective security. It remains the world's best hope for just and enduring
peace. But now our government clearly lacks the ability to rally our allies.
In Western Europe, despite a remarkable economic rebirth, there is growing
distrust. The British pound shrinks, the shadows of the British Empire fade, and
Britain herself is shut out from the Common Market by France, her one-time ally.
The integrity of the American dollar, continues under foreign assault. We
must put our house in order. What has happened to the British pound must not
happen to the American dollar.
In the Middle East, the Soviet Union has moved into the Mediterranean, and
threatens to open a new front in the cold war -- playing off America's friendship
to Israel against the vengence of Arab extremists.
In Latin America, the high promise of the Alliance For Progress remains
unfulfilled. Even the historic concept of freedom of the seas has been allowed
to become a mockery off the Pacific Coast of Latin America.
History may yet record the Vietnam conflict'as the most tragic and costly
within memory. The Administration has failed to make clear our goals to friend
and foe alike. It has not been candid with the American people in facing up to the
complex and difficult road which lies ahead.
The nation searches for principles to guide us:
We must face the realities and accept them.
We must not be wed to past mistakes.
We must not debase our diplomacy with pledges we cannot keep.
We must never throw away what our men have fought to win.
We must rekindle the spirit of mutual trust among free peoples - mindful
that America must not go it alone.
The American people yearn for a change. Our party intends to give it to them.
Congressman Ford - Opening Statement
1968 is no ordinary year.
The State of the Union is serious business.
The President came before Congress last week,
The Nation was anxious and waiting for his words.
Never were Americans hoping harder for someone to call them to action.
People all across this nation are deeply disturbed, concerned about
what's going on, right here at home. I've listened to them -- we all have --
and every day I'm moved by the simple eloquence of their letters --- their
unashamed love for America.
Doesn't the President listen to any of these people?
They've seen raging violence, bloodshed, destruction and death right on
their own doorsteps -- their homes and stores ablaze and looted -- tanks and
paratroopers -- not on faraway battlefields but rolling through once quiet
neighborhoods and blasting snipers from roofs and office windows.
And the President could only tell us he detects "a questioning" and
"A certain restlessness" among his countrymen.
We can speak far plainer than that!
Riots, murder and robbery -- is that just "restlessness?"
Deepening disbelief in our nation's policies, doubts about our most
sacred institutions and traditions, concern over the credibility of our
government's word -- the worth of our government's dollar -- do you call that
"questioning?"
The President's only explanation was, "When a great ship cuts through the
sea, the waters are always stirred and troubled."
Apparently the President has been standing on the stern -- looking
backward at the broiling wake -- wondering which of his officers to dump
overboard next!
(more)
Congressman Ford ( cont'd.)
Page Two
The Ship of State is wallowing in a storm-tossed sea, drifting toward
the rocks of domestic disaster, beaten by the waves of worldwide fiscal
crisis that threaten shipwreck.
The Captain should return to the bridge.
We need a Captain who will seize the helm -- call up full power -- break
out new charts -- hold our course $teadfast and bring us through the
storm.
We need a Captain who inspires his crew to heroic endeavor.
We need a Captain with courage to clear the deck -- jettison the
deadweight --, a Captain who learned his seamanship beyond the Potomac and
the Pedernales.
It is no time to signal S.O.S. or Abandon Ship.
It's time for all hands to man their battle stations.
This great Ship of State has weathered many a terrible storm.
We will NOT strike our colors now.
We have just BEGUN TO FIGHT!!!
We offer responsible and responsive leadership that looks for support
to the worth and will of all our people, that turns from the tired theories
and proven failures of the past to the realities of the present and
presses forward on better ways to a brighter future.
###
CONGRESSMAN STEIGER
It is an honor to appear on this program with former President
Eisenhower. The return of the integrity he brought to public service
and the conduct of national affairs is our goal.
Last week President Johnson tried to tell us we're really
troubled because of too rapid progress.
I disagree. The reasons are deeper. There is more than surface
unrest. The cause is not progress but years of over-promise and
under-performance.
In 1966 I was one of 47 new Republican Congressmen who came here
because Americans wanted a change and wanted new ways of solving
old problems. While still a minority in Congress, we have tried to
carry out your mandate for change.
We began by pressing for a permanent ethics committee in the
House of Representatives. We were successful and intend to push for
the high standards of conduct that you demand.
We' cameto Congress committed to make our government more responsive
and more responsible. We have reinforced our Republican Leadership
in fighting to reform the legislative branch of government. Congress
must be modernized to serve you better. And that legislation is now
awaiting House action.
We need a Clean Elections Law that will guarantee that you'll
know what's been going on behind the scenes before you vote. And
that law must be on the books for the 1968 elections.
CONGRESSMAN STEIGER
Pge. 2
These and other measures can help restore the faith of the
American people in their government.
Americans are impatient with mediocrity. So am 1. Americans
are not content to sit back and watch morality become a joke or
responsibility become a plaything for politicians. Nor are we
willing to watch politicians build a so-called great society of
big government and little people. Our purpose is a great peog.e.
We must pioneer in government as we have pioneered in technology.
America's creative talent can and must provide a government equal to
our challenges and worthy of our dreams.
We must view tomorrow's promises through yesterday's performance.
And yesterday's performance is not enough.
19986
Hugh Scott
One of the greatest dangers to world peace is ticking away in the Middle
East. The President's State of the Union Message was vague about U. S. efforts
in that vital area of the world -- because the Johnson Administration's
policies are vague.
The Soviet Union relishes that kind of situation.
Last year, the Soviets goaded the Arab states into a military showdown
with Israel. While the United States stood aloof, the Israelis fought a
brilliant war and beat both the Arab armies and their expensive Soviet weapons.
The Soviet Union is pouring modern tools of war into a Middle East buzzing
with these new Soviet jet fighters and bombers.
As the Soviets rush in to become the major forte' in the Middle East, with
a policy of turbulence, what is United States policy? No one seems to know.
The U. S. is doing nothing to convince the Soviets of the grievous world
danger in this arms race. Yet continuing sales of Soviet arms to Arab
countries force Israel to find deterrent weapons.
Where is the initiative of the Johnson Administration to good Arabs and
Israelis to the same peace table and preferably through direct talks?
The greatest insurance against Soviet domination of the Middle East
is a strong Israel, living at peace with its Arab neighbors.
Peace in the Middle East and survival of gallant Israel depends upon
a firm and clear American policy.
SENATOR PERCY
Tonight most of us will go to bed in a decent home. For some
Americans though, a decent home of their own remains only a dream.
Our cities are beset with harsh living conditions, ranging
from traffic congestion to air pollution. But the most critical
urban crisis is housing.
The public housing record is not good. Urban renewal has
demolished more houses than public housing has constructed. Too
often, public housing has only served to crowd thousands of poor
families together in high rise ghettos. These have become the
vertical slums of our cities.
To help all Americans to own their own home, we support a
National Home Ownership Opportunity Act. This Act would allow
a new home owner to work on his own house, and have his labor
contribute to his down payment.
The Act would combine the resources of government and private
industry by drawing upon private expertise to assist low income
families in building or rehabilitating homes.
It would also allow the government to financially assist
low income families who cannot pay commercial interest rates.
There is a great opportunity here for government and private
industry to work together in the good of the country. As the
Homestead Act opened the West, this could be the 20th Century
Homestead Act, helping to remake the face of our cities.
SENATOR PERCY (2nd Pge.)
Low income families deserve our help while striving to own their
home. This nation requires a realisitic housing program, not more
false promises. We must begin to offer. to the slum dweller the hope
that he as an individual can succeed.
CONGRESSMAN QUIE
The cities are boiling with frustration. Frustration can be a
man without a good job. We need an immediate program to provide
hundreds of thousands of jobs in private enterprise. That's the only
way we can provide jobs fast enough 20 cool the seething cities.
Yet the Johnson Administration has opposed every Republican
effort to involve private enterprise in the poverty program. They've
been long on promises -- short on performance. MON, at one st,
the President is beginning to talk about jobs for the poor in ivate
enterprise. He'll be talking more about private industry doing the
job his poverty war just has not done.
To the President who has been opposing our approach for four
long years, and now says he will do it our way, we have this challenge.
We challenge you to support our Human Investment Act, that
would encourage business and industry to train unde employed men
and women. We challenge you to support an Industry !outh Corps,
not just government youth corps. Support our call for untary
boards of businessmen in every city across the country to nobilize
the community to help the poor get off welfare ro.is.
Do not pour more money into old programs that don't work. Do
provide training for jobs that are waiting to be filled. Use
poverty dollars wisely to involve the poor in helping themselves, not
to feed bureaucracy or city hall patronage.
Many of the prisoners of poverty can learn to earn. These
Americans need their hopes fulfilled. This country must launch a
new crusade for human renewal.
Words and more words are not enough, Mr. President.
CONGRESSMAN POFF
The first duty of government is to maintain law and order. The
peace and tranquility guaranteed by the Constitution must be restored.
No nation in history has been able to survive the collapse of
its moral structure and the anarchy and lawlessness that follow.
Look at the situation confronting us today.
Murder is epidemic. Rape is commonplace--Burglary happens so
often it is no longer news. Pornography, filth and dope are peddled
on nearly every street corner. Crime has grown six times as fast as
the population.
Despite the urgent warnings of F.B.I. Director Hoover and law
enforcement officers everywhere, the Johnson Administration has
failed to take effective action. The Attorney General has banned
the use of modern investigative techniques. The soaring increase
in crime has been called just "a little bit" of an increase.
The recent statements of President Johnson that reflect a new
awareness, some hardening of purpose, are welcome.
State and local law enforcement officers must have help, but
without Federal domination and control. Our Law Enforcement and
Criminal Justice Act that passed the House last year provides such
assistance.
We must escalate the War against Crime so that all citizens,
regardless of color, will be safe in their home, at their places of
business and on the streets.
The American people want the "enforcement" put back into law enforcement.
Senator Robert P. Griffin
If a single thread runs through Republican thinking, it is an abiding
faith in the individual.
Over the years, Republicans have stood. up -- not only for the public
interest and for the right of workers to join unions -- but also to make sure
that the individual union member is not relegated to second-class citizenship.
,Today, American workers are deeply concerned as they see the collective
bargaining process breaking down...as they see strike losses increasing by
96% under the Johnson Administration.
They' re not satisfied with an NLRB that distorts the law. And they
believe their union dues ought to be used strictly for union business --
not for politics.
Back in 1966, President Johnson pledged that he would propos- and press
the Democratic-controlled Congress for certain reforms, pointing particularly
to the need for better legal machinery to help in settling strikes.
Needless to say, 1966 has passed. 1967 has come and gone. And America
listened carefully to the State of the Union message last week. But, although
paralyzing strike after strike has emphasized the problem, President Johnson
still has not delivered on that 1966 pledge:
In this troubled area, our Nation desperately needs leadership -- new
leadership with vision and courage to stand up for the public interest and the
rights of the individual worker.
After winning that Senate race in Michigan not so long ago, I'm more
convinced than ever that millions of American workers -- who refuse to take
political marching-orders from anyone -- are eager to support that new
leadership next November.
CONGRESSMAN BUSH
We hear a great deal today about a tax increase. A tax increase
to halt inflation, a tax increase to check the outflow of gold, a
tax increase to restore confidence in the dollar. Republicans respond
that before we consider a tax increase we must get our own fiscal
house in order.
The nation faces this year -- as it did last -- a tremendous
deficit in the Federal budget. But in the President's message
there was no sense of sacrifice, no assignment of priorities, no
hint of the need to put first things first.
This reckless policy has imposed the cruel tax of rising prices
on the people, pushed interest rates to their highest levels in
100 years, sharply reduced the rate of real economic growth, and
saddled every man, woman and child in this country with the largest
tax burdén in our history.
And what does the President say? He says we must pay still
more taxes and he proposes drastic restrictions on the rights of
Americans to invest and travel abroad. This is a bankrupt policy.
If the President wants to control inflation, he's got to cut
back on Federal spending. The very best antidote to inflation is
cutting back on spending. The best way to stop the gold drain is
to live within our means here at home.
We pledge ourselves to find solutions to America's most urgent
problems in health, housing, education, jobs and security. But we
shall never sacrifice the American people on a golden altar of
economic expediency.
Mrs. May:
The President said a lot about protecting the consumer in his
State of the Union Message the other night. But he did fail to tell
us about the protection we need most of all -- effective protection
from rising prices.
Now if there is anyone who knows just how fast prices are
rising, it is those of us who work in the kitchen and shop in the
grocery store, and when the people running our government tell us
that a little rise in prices is a good thing, we say: Maybe so,
but you're carrying a good thing too far!
With skyrocketing prices and increasing taxes, it is little
wonder American workers want more take-home pay to keep pace with
their cost-of-living. And now we even see the threat of wage controls.
This must stop. The American family has to balance its budget
and the President can do more to get things back in balance in his
budget.
You don't have to be an economist or a big government planner
to know that rising prices, the biggest threat to every family,
stem from unsound government policies.
I think I speak for American women -- and men too -- when I call
upon the President to stop wasting our money and make it worth
something again.
Bob Mathias:
I have faced some high hurdles in my time. But, you know, they're
nothing compared to the hurdles facing the American farmer today.
1 know this because I represent a farm area and I hear from them every
day. The Johnson Administration, by deliberate policies such as
the dumping of grain reserves, has pushed farm income down. This has
left the farmer with an ever-declining share of America's food dollar.
Government trade policies have destroyed historic markets and
encouraged imports.
In spite of misdirected and self-defeating Federal programs, the
energy and ingenuity of the American farmer have outpaced the
tremendous growth of our population. They've fed millions of hungry
people around the world. Our farmers must have the opportunity to
run their own farms with minimum government interference and to join
together to negotiate for better farm prices. The most productive
people in our economy, the American farmers, took a pay cut of a
billion and a half dollars in 1967, and the situation is getting
worse. Farm prices stood at 74% of parity last year, the lowest level
since 1933.
In the face of these shocking failures, the Administration and
the Secretary of Agriculture are determined to make their controls a
permanent part of the farm scene. Their programs are geared to the
tired theories of the 30's, not to the challenge of the 70's.
Every time the Johnson Administration comes up with a new farm
program, the farmers pay more and get less. We think it's time for
a change
and so does the American farmer.
...
###
Mel Laird:
Republicans believe there are better ways for Americans to do things than
the way of the great planned society. President Johnson's solution is to pile
program upon program, regulated, administered, and directed from Washington.
Republicans would instead establish revenue sharing with our states
and localities to return a percentage of Federal income taxes with no strings
attached. We would consolidate the hundreds of existing programs into block
grants that would be both more flexible and more effective in getting the job
done. And we would provide tax credits both for state and local taxes paid
and for such special purposes as education and job training.
Qur problems can only be solved if all levels of our society -- governmental
and private -- pull together in a true partnership. This means that we have
to strengthen states and localities, not weaken them. The job is not being
done today because local and state officials don'thave the money. They have
the ability
...
and the knowledge
...
but they lack the resources
because the Federal tax collector has gobbled them up.
Republicans have faith in our Governors and State Legislators. We
believe in our Mayors and school board members. We think you can trust them
to do what is right for the people and the community they serve. When they
don't, we have faith that the people will replace them with office holders
who will. That is what our representative government is all about.
Revenue sharing, together with block grants and tax credits, would
restore true Federalism in America. It would give control back to the
people, provide the tools for programs that work, arrest the drift of power
to Washington, and preserve the fundamental freèdoms of the American people
# # #
Howard H. Baker, Jr.
During the past few minutes, we have heard of domestic chaos in America.
But you see, in this nuclear age our concern can be no less for the bewildering
array of confusion and chaos abroad. Whether we speak of Vietnam or Cuba,
West Berlin or Latin America, the Middle East or Africa, there is a common
theme: America is forfeiting its leadership. The credibility of our
intentions, our will, our economic solvency is being questioned. Not since
the Civil War has the United States been so divided. Never has American
prestige abroad fallen so low.
We find NATO in shambles and summarily evicted from France. We find the
seeds of world war sown in the strife-torn Middle, East; a restless ant
in Latin America is just beginning to arouse, 'as are the emerging Na or.
of Africa. Asia is measuring the will and wisdom of the American posture.
As the free world loses faith in our leadership, it is also losing hope
that we have the will to order our own house. Thus, the international and
the domestic problems merge, as Nations rush to convert dollars to gold.
And what must we do?
We must have bold unifying leadership. We must establish credibility
for the humane motives of America and its will to resist aggression. We
must restore confidence in the American economy, before it is too late. We
must help those who are willing to help themselves, not with just handouts
which so often produce bitterness and resentment but with dignity and grace
and respect. We must lay aside the tired old techniques of the past and stand
ready to innovate, to use our vast nuclear technology to produce fresh water
from sea water, to produce abundant food supplies and energy, employed to.
promote cooperation instead of conflict. We must be as concerned with
preventing another Vietnam as we are with bringing this one to an honorable
conclusion.
Howard H. Baker, Jr. (cont'd.)
Page 2
There must be a new direction, new leadership, credible and sound.
And to secure these ends we pledge ourselves, singly and in bi-partisan
effort, now and in the future.
# # #
Senator Peter H. Dominick
The peace of the Free World depends largely on American strength --
economic, moral and military strength.
The right to wake up unafraid is every American's heritage, secure
in the knowledge that this country is too strong to attack. There can be no
partisan politics in our efforts to maintain this goal. It is too important
to mankind. But let's look at the record.
We are told of bomb shortages, automatic rifle malfunctions and lack
of proper jungle gear. We have no new fighter aircraft and the TFX is still
a question mark. 16" naval fire power from battleships have been literally
kept in moth balls, and repeated Congressional efforts' to obtain an anti-
missile system have been summarily thrust aside until this year.
In the meanwhile, the Red Chinese have been steadily expanding their
nuclear capability. The Soviets have surpassed us in deliverable nuclear
megatonage and they have developed a fractional orbiting nuclear bomb and
six new fighter-bomber aircraft systems. They have the largest submarine
fleet in the world and they are well on their way toward completion of an
anti-missile system.
We are menaced now -- not tomorrow or next year or the next decade,
but now. The overwhelming strategic superiority developed under President
Eisenhower has rapidly dissipated. This Administration has developed a
strange new doctrine -- that Soviet strategic equality is better than
American supremacy.
That dangerous doctrine must be reversed while there is still time.
Peace, with freedom, is inseparable from American strength. Let's keep it.
Congressman Gerald Ford
What you've seen is a picture of our party, how we look, what we think,
how we feel and why we believe there must be better ways to run our country.
Only by facing facts can we, as one nation and one people, move forward
to forge in our time a more perfect Union.
It seems strange not to have Senator Dirksen by my side. We've missed
him tonight and want him back soon.
We have told the truth as we see it about the State of the Union.
We're proud of our party and its leaders from Abraham Lincoln to
General Eisenhower. We're proud of legislators like those you've just seen --
of our 26 great governors and the young men and women coming up and taking charge.
Two-party competition made America great and keeps It free. When stakes
are high and problems grave, we need more airing of the issues -- not less.
We, the most powerful nation and people in history, toss and turn with
the tides of discontent, seethe with the injustices of hope denied, grope with
the burdens of a war unwon.
In the year just passed we have watched our cities erupt and our savings
erode.
But Americans are neither quitters nor losers.
We can take the hard truth, make the hard choices, and put our
country's future first.
Physical power and spiritual strength we have. Great leadership we
shall find.
Now we must fight together not fight each other. And we, each one
of us, must look deep into his conscience, searching to establish what is truly
American, hoping to find a new America that unites the dreams and serves the
needs of all of us.
-2-
This generation of Americans, and the next and the next, will once
again establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common
defense, promote the general welfare and secure the blessings of liberty.
We will not be distracted by the shrill discords of the spoilers.
We will not be diverted by the doom's day fantasies of the fearful.
Let us instead hear this: "Be strong and of a good courage, be not
afraid, neither be thou dismayed; for the Lord thy God is with thee."
We will go forward with high hearts and ready hands for the hard work
ahead.
FORD LIBRARI
Senator Tower
I'm here tonight to tell you where we believe the great majority of
Americans stand on Vietnam.
First and foremost we stand for the all-out support of our half-million
fighting men and women -- material support and moral support.
We stand for military success in Vietnam that will enable the
Vietnamese to rebuild a free nation.
We stand for an era of peace and stability that will embrace all of
Southeast Asia.
We stand for the effective utilization of America's vast air and sea
superiority.
We stand for quarantine of the enemy's supply lines so that he can no
longer fight.
We stand for firm resistance to naked Communist aggression in Vietnam
as we did in Greece, Berlin, Korea and Cuba. We also stand for the complete
protection of American ships in international waters.
We note that in the last few months the Johnson Administration has been
vigorously prosecuting the war in Vietnam. But, we also note that for far too
long it followed a self-defeating policy of "gradualism."
That "gradualism" policy caused us to pull our punches; it prolonged
the fighting; it cost American lives unnecessarily. This war could be over
today if the Johnson Administration had acted with determination instead of
with vacillation.
It is no wonder that the communist enemy is. confused about American
intentions and doubts American determination. The Administration's ping-pong
pronouncements have left even Americans confused.
Throughout this century Republican Administrations have understood how
to maintain world peace. Today, we understand what peace demands.
The nation suffers from a "peace gap" which we are determined to close.
Congresswoman Charlotte T. Reid
Yes, I am a mother. Two of my four children are sons -- one of
whom served four years in the Marine Corps and the other left for Vietnam
just last week. I believe that not only all parents, but all thinking,
Americans, are as deeply distressed as I am by complacency, disunity, and
protest here at home.
There are many problems which threaten our American way of life --
crime, disrespect for law and order -- but particularly the war. Our men
in Vietnam are fighting to insure the freedom and happiness of all of us -- of
our children and, indeed, our grandchildren, too.
So -- we must impose on ourselves the kind of discipline we impose
on our soldier sons. While we have American troops in Vietnam, we must be
certain that they have our wholehearted support. We must be certain that the
Johnson Administration knows what it is trying to do in Vietnam and that it
knows how to do it. Above all, there must be no
false promises.
More than 16,000 families have learned the final, terrible price of
freedom. Yet, the casualty lists continue to rise. We must be certain
that the lives which have been lost will not have been sacrificed in vain.
office Capy
FOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY
EXCERPTS
--
THE REPUBLICAN VIEW OF
THE STATE OF THE UNION
JANUARY 23, 1968
alsoin in C.R.
Jan z4-p, 5,366 ff
Jan 30- p. H548H.
GERALD LIBRARY
Statement of General Dwight D. Eisenhower
You and I - all of us - enjoy a precious privilege, that of living under
the greatest self-governing society known to history.
To establish and sustain that society which guarantees to every citizen
equal rights before the law, our Founding Fathers and intervening generations
have fought hard in office. We are the beneficiaries of their work and
sacrifices. A solemn obligation rests upon us today to do no less in our time.
Not merely for ourselves but for our children and for the cause of human liberty
on the earth. Under our two-party method of Government, it is essencial that
members of the Party not in power become convinced that new measures and
directions are required to preserve and strengthen our free system. The
reasons for their convictions should be made known to their fellow citizens.
Tonight some of your elected Representatives in the Congress are presenting
to you their views. We of the Republican Party welcome your thoughtful
attention as these views are laid before you. We know that these are
critical times for our beloved country - as critical as any 1 have known
in my lifetime. The thought, the hard work, the, dedication of ever
citizen are now required if we are to hold true to the ideals of human
dignity and liberty that have meant so much to America and to the world.
Senator Kuchel
A new attitude, new vigor, new direction, new confidence, are now required
if this nation is to stem its headlong descent from a role of leadership held so
long in the world.
In this 20th Century free peoples have looked to America in their struggle
for human liberty. Dwight Eisenhower brought like-minded nations together for
collective security. It remains the world's best hope for just and enduring
peace. But now our government clearly lacks the ability to rally our allies.
In Western Europe, despite a remarkable economic rebirth, there is growing
distrust. The British pound shrinks, the shadows of the British Empire fade, and
Britain herself is shut out from the Common Market by France, her one-time ally.
The integrity of the American dollar, continues under foreign assault. We
must put our house in order. What has happened to the British pound must not
happen to the American dollar.
in the Middle East, the Soviet Union has moved into the Meditermanean, and
threatens to open a new front in the cold war -- playing off America's friendship
to Israel against the vengence of Arab extremists.
In Latin America, the high promise of the Alliance For Progress remains
unfulfilled. Even the historic concept of freedom of the seas has been allowed
to become a mockery off the Pacific Coast of Latin America.
History may yet record the Vietnam conflict'as the most tragic and costly
within memory. The Administration has failed to make clear our goals to friend
and foe alike. It has not been candid with the American people in facing up to the
complex and difficult road which lies ahead.
The nation searches for principles to guide us:
We must face the realities and accept them.
We must not be wed to past mistakes.
We must not debase our diplomacy with pledges we cannot keep.
We must never throw away what our men have fought to win.
We must rekindle the spirit of mutual trust among free peoples - mindful
that America must not go it alone.
The American people yearn for a change. Our party intends to give it to them.
Congressman Ford - Opening Statement
1968 is no ordinary year.
The State of the Union is serious business.
The President came before Congress last week,
The Nation was anxious and waiting for his words.
Never were Americans hoping harder for someone to call them to action.
People all across this nation are deeply disturbed, concerned about
what's going on, right here at home. I've listened to them --- we all have --
and every day I'm moved by the simple eloquence of their letters --- their
unashamed love for America.
Doesn't the President listen to any of these people?
They've seen raging violence, bloodshed, destruction and death right on
their own doorsteps -- their homes and stores ablaze and looted -- tanks and
paratroopers -- not on faraway battlefields but rolling through once quiet
neighborhoods and blasting snipers from roofs and office windows.
And the President could only tell us he detects "a questioning" and
"A certain restlessness" among his countrymen.
We can speak far plainer than that!
Riots, murder and robbery -- is that just "restlessness?"
Deepening disbelief in our nation's policies, doubts about our most
sacred institutions and traditions, concern over the credibility of our
government's word -- the worth of our government's dollar -- do you call that
"questioning?"
The President's only explanation was, "When a great ship cuts through the
sea, the waters are always stirred and troubled."
Apparently the President has been standing on the stern -- looking
backward at the broiling wake -- wondering which of his officers to dump
overboard next!
(more)
Congressman Ford (cont'd.)
Page Two
The Ship of State is wallowing in a storm-tossed sea, drifting toward
the rocks of domestic disaster, beaten by the waves of worldwide fiscal
crisis that threaten shipwreck.
The Captain should return to the bridge.
We need a Captain who will seize the helm -- call up full power -- break
out new charts -- hold our course steadfast and bring us through the
storm.
We need a Captain who inspires his crew to heroic endeavor.
We need a Captain with courage to clear the deck -- jettison the
deadweight --, a Captain who learned his seamanship beyond the Potomac and
the Pedernales.
It is no time to signal S.O.S. or Abandon Ship.
It's time for all hands to man their battle stations.
This great Ship of State has weathered many a terrible storm.
We will NOT strike our colors now.
We have just BEGUN TO FIGHT!!!
We offer responsible and responsive leadership that looks for support
to the worth and will of all our people, that turns from the tired theories
and proven failures of the past to the realities of the present and
presses forward on better ways to a brighter future.
###
CONGRESSMAN STEIGER
It is an honor to appear on this program with former President
Eisenhower. The return of the integrity he brought to public service
and the conduct of national affairs is our goal.
Last week President Johnson tried to tell us we're really
troubled because of too rapid progress.
I disagree. The reasons are deeper. There is more than surface
unrest. The cause is not progress but years of over-promise and
under-performance.
In 1966 I was one of 47 new Republican Congressmen who came here
because Americans wanted a change and wanted new ways of solving
old problems. While still a minority in Congress, we have tried to
carry out your mandate for change.
We began by pressing for a permanent ethics committee in the
House of Representatives. We were successful and intend to push for
the high standards of conduct that you demand.
We' cameto Congress committed to make our government more responsive
and more responsible. We have reinforced our Republican Leadership
in fighting to reform the legislative branch of government. Congress
must be modernized to serve you better. And that legislation is now
awaiting House action.
We need a Clean Elections Law that will guarantee that you'll
know what's been going on behind the scenes before you vote. And
that law must be on the books for the 1968 elections.
CONGRESSMAN STEIGER
Pge. 2
These and other measures can help restore the faith of the
American people in their government.
Americans are impatient with mediocrity. So am 1. Americans
are not content to sit back and watch morality become a joke or
responsibility become a plaything for politicians. Nor are we
willing to watch politicians build a so-called great society of
big government and little people. Our purpose is a great people.
We must pioneer in government as we have pioneered in technology.
America's creative talent can and must provide a government equal to
our challenges and worthy of our dreams.
We must view tomorrow's promises through yesterday's performance.
And yesterday's performance is not enough.
SENATOR PERCY
Tonight most of us will go to bed in a decent home. For some
Americans though, a decent home of their own remains only a dream.
Our cities are beset with harsh living conditions, ranging
from traffic congestion to air pollution. But the most critical
urban crisis is housing.
The public housing record is not good. Urban renewal has
demolished more houses than public housing has constructed. Too
often, public housing has only served to crowd thousands of poor
families together in high rise ghettos. These have become the
vertical slums of our cities.
To help all Americans to own their own home, we support a
National Home Ownership Opportunity Act. This Act would allow
a new home owner to work on his own house, and have his labor
contribute to his down payment.
The Act would combine the resources of government and private
industry by drawing upon private expertise to assist low income
families in building or rehabilitating homes.
It would also allow the government to financially assist
low income families who cannot pay commercial interest rates.
There is a great opportunity here for government and private
industry to work together in the good of the country. As the
Homestead Act opened the West, this could be the 20th Century
Homestead Act, helping to remake the face of our cities.
SENATOR PERCY (2nd Pge.)
Low income families deserve our help while striving to own their
home. This nation requires a realisitic housing program, not more
false promises. We must begin to offer. to the slum dweller the hope
that he as an individual can succeed.
CONGRESSMAN QUIE
The cities are boiling with frustration. Frustration can be a
man without a good job. We need an immediate program to provide
hundreds of thousands of jobs in private enterprise. That's the only
way we can provide jobs fast enough 20 cool the seething cities.
Yet the Johnson Administration has opposed every Republican
effort to involve private enterprise in the poverty program. They've
been long on promises -- short on performance. MON, at ..st,
the President is beginning to talk about jobs for the poor in ivate
enterprise. He'll be talking more about private industry doing the
job his poverty war just has not done.
To the President who has been opposing our approach for four
long years, and now says he will do it our way, we have this challenge.
We challenge you to support our Human Investment Act, that
would encourage business and industry to train unde moloyed men
and women. We challenge you to support an Industry Youth Corps,
not just government youth corps. Support our call for cluntary
boards of businessmen in every city across the country to mobilize
the community to help the poor get off welfare rolls.
Do not pour more money into old programs that don't work. Do
provide training for jobs that are waiting to be filled. Use
poverty dollars wisely to involve the poor in helping themselves, not
to feed bureaucracy or city hall patronage.
Many of the prisoners of poverty can learn to earn. These
Americans need their hopes fulfilled. This country must launch a
new crusade for human renewal.
Words and more words are not enough, Mr. President.
CONGRESSMAN POFF
The first duty of government is to maintain law and order. The
peace and tranquility guaranteed by the Constitution must be restored.
No nation in history has been able to survive the collapse of
its moral structure and the anarchy and lawlessness that follow.
Look at the situation confronting us today.
Murder is epidemic. Rape is commonplace--Burglary happens so
often it is no longer news. Pornography, filth and dope are peddled
on nearly every street corner. Crime has grown six times as fast as
the population.
Despite the urgent warnings of F.B.1. Director Hoover and law
enforcement officers everywhere, the Johnson Administration has
failed to take effective action. The Attorney General has banned
the use of modern investigative techniques. The soaring increase
in crime has been called just "a little bit" of an increase.
The recent statements of President Johnson that reflect a new
awareness, some hardening of purpose, are welcome.
State and local law enforcement officers must have help, but
without Federal domination and control. Our Law Enforcement and
Criminal Justice Act that passed the House last year provides such
assistance.
We must escalate the War against Crime so that all citizens,
regardless of color, will be safe in their home, at their places of
business and on the streets.
The American people want the "enforcement" put back into law enforcement.
Senator Robert P. Griffin
If a single thread runs through Republican thinking, it is an abiding
faith in the individual.
Over the years, Republicans have stood. up -- not only for the public
interest and for the right of workers to join unions -- but also to make sure
that the individual union member is not relegated to second-class citizenship.
Today, American workers are deeply concerned as they see the collective
bargaining process breaking down...as they see strike losses increasing by
96% under the Johnson Administration.
They' re not satisfied with an NLRB that distorts the law. And they
believe their union dues ought to be used strictly for union business --
not for politics.
Back in 1966, President Johnson pledged that he would propose and press
the Democratic-controlled Congress for certain reforms, pointing pa recularly
to the need for better legal machinery to help in settling strikes.
Needless to say, 1966 has passed. 1967 has come and gone. And America
listened carefully to the State of the Union message last week. But, although
paralyzing strike after strike has emphasized the problem, President Johnson
still has not delivered on that 1966 pledge:
In this troubled area, our Nation desperately needs leadership -- new
leadership with vision and courage to stand up for the public interest and the
rights of the individual worker.
After winning that Senate race in Michigan not so long ago, I'm more
convinced than ever that millions of American workers -- who refuse to take
political marching-orders from anyone -- are eager to support that new
leadership next November.
CONGRESSMAN BUSH
We hear a great deal today about a tax increase. A tax increase
to halt inflation, a tax increase to check the outflow of gold, a
tax increase to restore confidence in the dollar. Republicans respond
that before we consider a tax increase we must get our own fiscal
house in order.
The nation faces this year -- as it did last -- a tremendous
deficit in the Federal budget. But in the President's message
there was no sense of sacrifice, no assignment of priorities, no
hint of the need to put first things first.
This reckless policy has imposed the cruel tax of rising prices
on the people, pushed interest rates to their highest levels in
100 years, sharply reduced the rate of real economic growth, and
saddled every man, woman and child in this country with the largest
tax burdén in our history.
And what does the President say? He says we must pay still
more taxes and he proposes drastic restrictions on the rights of
Americans to invest and travel abroad. This is a bankrupt policy.
If the President wants to control inflation, he's got to cut
back on Federal spending. The very best antidote to inflation is
cutting back on spending. The best way to stop the gold drain is
to live within our means here at home.
We pledge ourselves to find solutions to America's most urgent
problems in health, housing, education, jobs and security. But we
shall never sacrifice the American people on a golden altar of
economic expediency.
Mrs. May:
The President said a lot about protecting the consumer in his
State of the Union Message the other night. But he did fail to tell
us about the protection we need most of all -- effective protection
from rising prices.
Now if there is anyone who knows just how fast prices are
rising, it is those of us who work in the kitchen and shop in the
grocery store, and when the people running our government tell us
that a little rise in prices is a good thing, we say: Maybe so,
but you're carrying a good thing too far!
With skyrocketing prices and increasing taxes, it is little
wonder American workers want more take-home pay to keep pace with
their cost-of-living. And now we even see the threat of wage controls.
This must stop. The American family has to balance its budget
and the President can do more to get things back in balance in his
budget.
You don't have to be an economist or a big government planner
to know that rising prices, the biggest threat to every family,
stem from unsound government policies.
I think I speak for American women -- and men too -- when I call
upon the President to stop wasting our money and make it worth
something again.
Bob Mathias:
I have faced some high hurdles in my time. But, you know, they're
nothing compared to the hurdles facing the American farmer today.
I know this because I represent a farm area and I hear from them every
day. The Johnson Administration, by deliberate policies such as
the dumping of grain reserves, has pushed farm income down. This has
left the farmer with an ever-declining share of America's food dollar.
Government trade policies have destroyed historic markets and
encouraged imports.
In spite of misdirected and self-defeating Federal programs, the
energy and ingenuity of the American farmer have outpaced the
tremendous growth of our population. They've fed millions of hungry
people around the world. Our farmers must have the opportunity to
run their own farms with minimum government interference and to join
together to negotiate for better farm prices. The most productive
people in our economy, the American farmers, took a pay cut of a
billion and a half dollars in 1967, and the situation is getting
worse. Farm prices stood at 74% of parity last year, the lowest level
since 1933.
In the face of these shocking failures, the Administration and
the Secretary of Agriculture are determined to make their controls a
permanent part of the farm scene. Their programs are geared to the
tired theories of the 30's, not to the challenge of the 70's.
Every time the Johnson Administration comes up with a new farm
program, the farmers pay more and get less. We think it's time for
a change
...
and so does the American farmer.
###
Mel Laird:
Republicans believe there are better ways for Americans to do things than
the way of the great planned society. President Johnson's solution is to pile
program upon program, regulated, administered, and directed from Washington.
Republicans would instead establish revenue sharing with our states
and localities to return a percentage of Federal income taxes with no strings
attached. We would consolidate the hundreds of existing programs into block
grants that would be both more flexible and more effective in getting the job
done. And we would provide tax credits both for state and local taxes paid
and for such special purposes as education and job training.
Qur problems can only be solved if all levels of our society -- governmental
and private -- pull together in a true partnership. This means that we have
to strengthen states and localities, not weaken them. The job is not being
done today because local and state officials don' have the money. They have
the ability
...
and the knowledge
...
but they lack the resources
because the Federal tax collector has gobbled them up.
Republicans have faith in our Governors and State Legislators. We
believe in our Mayors and school board members. We think you can trust them
to do what is right for the people and the community they serve. When they
don't, we have faith that the people will replace them with office holders
who will. That is what our representative government is all about.
Revenue sharing, together with block grants and tax credits, would
restore true Federalism in America. It would give control back to the
people, provide the tools for programs that work, arrest the drift of power
to Washington, and preserve the fundamental freèdoms of the American people.
# # #
Howard H. Baker, Jr.
During the past few minutes, we have heard of domestic chaos in America.
But you see, in this nuclear age our concern can be no less for the bewildering
array of confusion and chaos abroad. Whether we speak of Vietnam or Cuba,
West Berlin or Latin America, the Middle East or Africa, there is a common
theme: America is forfeiting its leadership. The credibility of our
intentions, our will, our economic solvency is being questioned. Not since
the Civil War has the United States been so divided. Never has American
prestige abroad fallen so low.
We find NATO in shambles and summarily evicted from France. We find the
seeds of world war sown in the strife-torn Middle, East; a restless (lant
in Latin America is just beginning to arouse, 'as are the emerging Nations
of Africa. Asia is measuring the will and wisdom of the American posture.
As the free world loses faith in our leadership, it is also losing hope
that we have the will to order our own house. Thus, the international and
the domestic problems merge, as Nations rush to convert dollars to gold.
And what must we do?
We must have bold unifying leadership. We must establish credibility
for the humane motives of America and its will to resist aggression. We
must restore confidence in the American economy, before it is too late. We
must help those who are willing to help themselves, not with just handouts
which so often produce bitterness and resentment but with dignity and grace
and respect. We must lay aside the tired old techniques of the past and stand
ready to innovate, to use our vast nuclear technology to produce fresh water
from sea water, to produce abundant food supplies and energy, employed to.
promote cooperation instead of conflict. We must be as concerned with
preventing another Vietnam as we are with bringing this one to an honorable
conclusion.
(more)
Howard H. Baker, Jr. (cont'd.)
Page 2
There must be a new direction, new leadership, credible and sound.
And to secure these ends we pledge ourselves, singly and in bi-partisan
effort, now and in the future.
# # #
Hugh Scott
One of the greatest dangers to world peace is ticking away in the Middle
East. The President's State of the Union Message was vague about U. S. efforts
in that vital area of the world -- because the Johnson Administration's
policies are vague.
The Soviet Union relishes that kind of situation.
Last year, the Soviets goaded the Arab states into a military showdown
with Israel. While the United States stood aloof, the Israelis fought a
brilliant war and beat both the Arab armies and their expensive Soviet weapons.
The Soviet Union is pouring modern tools of war into a Micdle East buzzing
with these new Soviet jet fighters and bombers.
As the Soviets rush in to become the major forte in the Mic. le East, with
a policy of turbulence, what is United States policy? No one seems to know.
The U. S. is doing nothing to convince the Soviets of the grievous world
danger in this arms race. Yet continuing sales of Soviet arms to Arab
countries force Israel to find deterrent weapons.
Where is the initiative of the Johnson Administration to Arabs and
Israelis to the same peace table and preferably through direct talks?
The greatest insurance against Soviet domination of the Middle East
is a strong Israel, living at peace with its Arab neighbors.
Peace in the Middle East and survival of gallant Israel depends upon
a firm and clear American policy.
Senator Tower
I'm here tonight to tell you where we believe the great majority of
Americans stand on Vietnam.
First and foremost we stand for the all-out support of our half-million
fighting men and women -- material support and moral support.
We stand for military success in Vietnam that will enable the
Vietnamese to rebuild a free nation.
We stand for an era of peace and stability that will embrace all of
Southeast Asia.
We stand for the effective utilization of America's vast air and sea
superiority.
We stand for quarantine of the enemy's supply lines so that he can no
longer fight.
We stand for firm resistance to naked Communist aggression in Vietnam
as we did in Greece, Berlin, Korea and Cuba. We also stand for the complete
protection of American ships in international waters.
We note that in the last few months the Johnson Administration has been
vigorously prosecuting the war in Vietnam. But, we also note that for far too
long it followed a self-defeating policy of "gradualism."
That "gradualism" policy caused us to pull our punches; it prolonged
the fighting; it cost American lives unnecessarily. This war could be over
today if the Johnson Administration had acted with determination instead of
with vacillation.
It is no wonder that the communist enemy is. confused about American
intentions and doubts American determination. The Administration's ping-pong
pronouncements have left even Americans confused.
Throughout this century Republican Administrations have understood how
to maintain world peace. Today, we understand what peace demands.
The nation suffers from a "peace gap" which we are determined to close.
Congresswoman Charlotte T. Reid
Yes, I am a mother. Two of my four children are sons -- one of
whom served four years in the Marine Corps and the other left for Vietnam
just last week. I believe that not only all parents, but all thinking
Americans, are as deeply distressed as I am by complacency, disunity, and
protest here at home.
There are many problems which threaten our American way of life --
crime, disrespect for law and order --- but particularly the war. Our men
in Vietnam are fighting to insure the freedom and happiness of all of us -- of
our children and, indeed, our grandchildren, too.
.
So -- we must impose on ourselves the kind of discipline we mpose
on our soldier sons. While we have American troops in Vietnam, we must be
certain that they have our wholehearted support. We must be certain that the
Johnson Administration knows what it is trying to do in Vietnam and that it
knows how to do it. Above all, there must be no
false promises.
More than 16,000 families have learned the final, terrible price of
freedom. Yet, the casualty lists continue to rise. We must be certain
that the lives which have been lost will not have been sacrificed in vain.
Senator Peter H. Dominick
The peace of the Free World depends largely on American strength --
economic, moral and military strength.
The right to wake up unafraid is every American's heritage, secure
in the knowledge that this country is too strong to attack. There can be no
partisan politics in our efforts to maintain this goal. It is too important
to mankind. But let's look at the record.
We are told of bomb shortages, automatic rifle malfunctions and lack
of proper jungle gear. We have no new fighter aircraft and the TFX is still
a question mark. 16" naval fire power from battleships have been literally
kept in moth balls, and repeated Congressional efforts' to obtain an anti-
missile system have been summarily thrust aside until this year.
In the meanwhile, the Red Chinese have been steadily expanding their
nuclear capability. The Soviets have surpassed us in deliverable nuclear
megatonage and they have developed a fractional orbiting nuclear bomb and
six new fighter-bomber aircraft systems. They have the largest submarine
fleet in the world and they are well on their way toward completion of an
anti-missile system.
We are menaced now -- not tomorrow or next year or the next decade,
but now. The overwhelming strategic superiority developed under President
Eisenhower has rapidly dissipated. This Administration has developed a
strange new doctrine -- that Soviet strategic equality is better than
American supremacy.
That dangerous doctrine must be reversed while there is still time.
Peace, with freedom, is inseparable from American strength. Let's keep it.
Congressman Gerald Ford
What you' seen is a picture of our party, how we look, what we think,
how we feel and why we believe there must be better ways to run our country.
Only by facing facts can we, as one nation and one people, move forward
to forge in our time a more perfect Union.
It seems strange not to have Senator Dirksen by my side. We've missed
him tonight and want him back soon.
We have told the truth as we see it about the State of the Union.
We're proud of our party and its leaders from Abraham Lincoin to
General Eisenhower. We're proud of legislators like those you've just seen --
of our 26 great governors and the young men and women coming up and taking charge.
Two-party competition made America great and keeps It free. When stakes
are high and problems grave, we need more airing of the issues -- not less.
We, the most powerful nation and people in history, toss and turn with
the tides of discontent, seethe with the injustices of hope denied, grope with
the burdens of a war unwon.
In the year just passed we have watched our cities erupt and our savings
erode.
But Americans are neither quitters nor losers.
We can take the hard truth, make the hard choices, and put our
country's future first.
Physical power and spiritual strength we have. Great leadership we
shall find.
Now we must fight together -- not fight each other. And we, each one
of us, must look deep into his conscience, searching to establish what is truly
American, hoping to find a new America that unites the dreams and serves the
needs of all of us.
-2-
This generation of Americans, and the next and the next, will once
again establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common
defense, promote the general welfare and secure the blessings of liberty.
We will not be distracted by the shrill discords of the spoilers.
We will not be diverted by the doom's day fantasies of the fearful.
Let us instead hear this: "Be strong and of a good courage, be not
afraid, neither be thou dismayed; for the Lord thy God is with thee."
We will go forward with high hearts and ready hands for the hard work
ahead.