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Barry N. Roth Files
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Presidential campaign, 1976
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The original documents are located in Box 26, folder "PL (Political Affairs)/Reagan" of the
Barry N. Roth Files 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. Gerald R. Ford 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States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.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.
Some items in this folder were not digitized because it contains copyrighted
materials. Please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library for access to
these materials.
file
MEMORANDUM
February 2, 1976
TO:
Bo Callaway
Bob Mosbacher
Stu Spencer
Bob Odell
Bob Moot
FROM: Bob Visser
Rev
RE:
Reagan Report to January 10, 1976
Attached please find the summary pages of the Report
for Receipts and Expenditures for Citizens for Reagan.
We have the complete copy available in our office.
CC:
Fred Slight
Skip Watts
Ed Terrell
Fund & LIBRARY DERALD
SUMMARY PAGE
Name of Committee CITIZENS FOR REAGAN
REPORT COVERING PERIOD FROM
October 1, 1975
THRU December 31, 1975
Column A-
Column F-
This period
Calendar year to date
SECTION A- RECEIPTS:
Part 1. Individual contributions:
a. Itemized (use schedule A*)
$ 523,393.19
b. Unitemized
$869,501.52
Total individual contributions
1,392,894.71
$1,788,637.58
Part 2. Sales and collections:
Itemized (use schedule B and as necessary schedule A*)
$
719.50
S
719.50
Part 3. Loans received:
a. Itemized (use schedule A*)
$
-0-
S
b. Unitemized
$
1.00
Total loans received
$
1.00
S
1.00
Part 4. Other receipts (refunds. rebates, interest, etc.):
a. Itemized (use schedule A) A/R Press
$ 22,969.00
b. Unitemized In Kind Contributions
$
2,023.71
Total other receipts
S
24,992.71
$ 25,662.50
Part 5. Transfers in:
Itemize all (use schedule A*)
$ 110,500.00
$ 110,500.00
1,529,107.92
TOTAL RECEIPTS
$
$ 1,925,570.58
SECTION -EXPENDITURES:
Part 6. Void: Use Part 9.
Part 7. Expenditures for personal services, salaries, and reimbursed expenses:
a. Itemized (use schedule D*)
$ 138,474.24
b. Unitemized
$
2,386.28
Total expenditures for personal services,
salaries, and reimbursed expenses
$ 140,860.52
$ 161,433,24
Part 8. Loans made:
a. Itemized (use schedule D*)
$
None
$
b. Unitemized
$
None
$
Total loans made
$
None
$
None
Part 9. Media and other expenses:
a. Itemized (use schedule C*)
$ 953,879.89
S
b. Unitemized
$
5,713.61
$
Total other expenditures
$ 959,593.50
$1,234,170.36
Part 10. Transfers out:
a. transfers out
110,500.00
Itemize all (use schedule D*) b.. in kind contributions
$
2,023.71
$ 113,100.50
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 1,212,977.73
$ 1,508,847.10
SECTION C-CASH BALANCES:
Cash on hand at beginning of reporting period
S 100,593,29
Add total receipts (section A above)
$ 1,529,107.92
Subtotal
$1,629,701.21
R
FORD
Subtract total expenditures (section B above)
$1,212,977.73
Cash on hand at close of reporting period
$ 416,723.48
GERALD
LIBRARY
SECTION D-DEBTS AND OBLIGATIONS:
Part 11. Debts and obligations owed to the committee (use schedule E*)
$
6,914.00
Part 12. Debts and obligations owed by the committee (use schedule E*)
S 223,388.17
*Schedules are to be used only when itemization is required. (See each Schedule for instructions.) When itemization is unnecessary for a given Part
the total of any amounts for that Part is to be entered as a lump sum on the "Unitemized" line of the appropriate Part of the Summary Report. The
word "None" should be entered on any line of the Summary Report when no amount is being reported.
GPO 893-667
PL
Ronald Reagan
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20013
February 11, 1976
Mr. & Mrs. Edward F. Fry
5315 First St. N.W.
Washington, D. C. 20011
Dear Mr. E Mrs. Fry:
I asked Congressman Vander Jagt, Chairman of the National
Republican Congressional Committee if I could write to you
today about a serious and urgent matter.
Frankly, the Republican Party needs your renewed financial
support in the 1976 Congressional elections as never before.
Make no mistake about it. Liberal Democratic candidates and
their political allies such as the AFL-CIO's COPE, are al-
ready amassing a huge war chest in D. C. and across the
nation for their drive to maintain their 2 to 1 control of
Congress.
Union reports filed in Washington show big labor has already
raised over $4,000,000 in ready cash. When their "official"
election fundraising drive begins later this year, they
expect to amass 29 millions of additional dollars. Most of
which will be used against conservative Republican candidates.
I don't believe we can break this liberal Democratic strangle-
hold unless you help the Committee in it's effort to elect
responsible candidates who stand up for fiscal sanity, the
free market system and a strong U. S. military defense.
As you know, Democrats have controlled Congress lock, stock,
and barrel for 40 of the past 44 years. There isn't one
penny spent by your government that hasn't been mandated by
the Democrat majority. No bureaucrat has been hired, no
rule or regulation has been issued without approval by the
Democrat majority in Congress.
They have caused galloping inflation which wipes out your
savings and your buying power. They have enthusiastically
voted for every spending bill that has produced the highest
runu
Federal budget deficits in our history.
&
In 1975, the Democrats introduced bills to nationalize our
oil industry, to allocate our energy supply and to sharply
GERALD
LIBRARY
reduce our military defenses that, in my opinion, would
jeopardize the very safety of this country.
"A copy of our report is filed with the Federal Election Commission and is available for purchase from the Federal Election Commission, Washington, D.C."
Absolutely no taxpayers' funds have been used in the preparation or mailing of this correspondence.
Mr. E Mrs. Edward F. Fry
In order to return control of Congress to the Republicans,
the Congressional Committee has established a comprehensive
program and launched a special emergency fund drive.
The immediate need for funds is critical because the Commit-
tee must raise a minimum of $750,000 in early money to make
cash contributions to candidates and fund political action
programs Republican candidates need for victory in 1976.
This emergency fund, if raised, will be used to defeat en-
trenched Democrats in Congress and to elect and reelect Re-
publicans who will support the programs designed to stop
inflation and recession.
I know from talking with hundreds of Republicans at meetings
across the country, that the Committee's support is invalu-
able. There are many Republicans sitting in Congress today
who owe their election to the efforts of this important and
hard-hitting Committee.
It's time for a fundamental change in Washington that can
only come from a Republican Congress.
Thanks to the Democrats, welfare, like government spending,
has gotten out of hand; programs such as food stamps have
become a national disgrace; a bloated government burea-
cracy, with its endless rules and regulations, harasses our
citizens and threatens to bury business in a sea of red tape.
The situation in Washington is critical. But no change can,
or will, be made without your financial help and support.
I hope, therefore, you will respond today to my spe-
cial appeal by sending a contribution for as much as
$25 or more.
If the Committee can reach this goal, it will help us defeat
entrenched liberal Democrats and elect Republicans who will
oppose the shocking abuses I have mentioned.
If you want to help offset union domination of the upcoming
Congressional election, I strongly urge you to support the
Committee's fund-raising effort.
Ronald Sincerely, Ronald W. Reagan Reagen
P.S.
At my request Congressman Vander Jagt enclosed a
QERALD R FORD LIBRARY
contribution form and a reply envelope for your use,
Mr. & Mrs. Fry. I have asked him to give me a list
of donors who respond and I certainly hope your name
is on this list.
RANCIS
ISTORIAN
UNITED STATES
WASHINGTON 5e
UNITED STATES
WASHINGTON 5c
MERICAN
S.POSTAGE
FOR THE PERSONAL ATTENTION OF:
Ronald Reagan
EMERGENCY CAMPAIGN FUND
Box 2837
Washington, D.C. 20013
I want to help
A Personal Reply to
Gov. Ronald Reagan
Dear Governor Reagan:
I want to help break the liberal Democrat stranglehold on Congress and offset
union domination of the upcoming Congressional elections. To meet the immedi-
ate requirement for critically needed early money in the Congressional elections,
I am enclosing my contribution of:
$
$100
$75
$50
$25
$15
$10
CHECK ATTACHED
BILL ME $
QUARTERLY
OTHER:
Please make checks payable to the Emergency Campaign Fund.
FROM:
Mr.
Mrs.
Miss
Ms.
PLEASE PRINT YOUR NAME HERE
PLEASE PRINT YOUR ADDRESS HERE
PLEASE PRINT YOUR CITY OR POST OFFICE
STATE
ZIP CODE
OCCUPATION
PLACE OF BUSINESS
Your personal letter of acknowledgment (a valid tax-deductible receipt) will be sent by
return mail. Please indicate changes of address necessary. Thank you!
Please return your check to Gov. Reagan in the enclosed postage-paid envelope.
Corporate contributions are prohibited by law.
"A copy of our report is filed with the Federal Election Commission and is available for purchase
from the Federal Election Commission, Washington, D.C." Absolutely no taxpayers' funds have been used
in the preparation or mailing of this correspondence.
National Republican Congressional Committee
U.S. House of Representatives
Box 2837
Washington, D.C. 20013
Guy A. Vander Jagt, M.C., Chairman
George Olmsted, Treasurer
FORD
ALD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Barry
You wanted to see this.
Trudy
Ronald BOX 2837 Reagan
-PM DC
SER
M.S.MAIL a
AMERICA
11 FEB 200
1976
UNITED STATES POSTAL SER
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20013
Spiritof76
adrian weiss productions
186 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90210
(213) 274-9991
Cable: Weisspict
quel
May 5, 1976
RE
The President of the United States
White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. President:
I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely
thank you for waiving your rights to equal time under
Section 315 of the Communications Act, relative to the
broadcasting of the Ronald Reagan films entitled "CATTLE
QUEEN OF MONTANA" and "TENNESSEE'S PARTNER".
Your decision has reassured my faith in the American
way
that of a third party's right to use his
privately owned property without political involvement
and consideration of the constitutional question of
deprivation of property without due process of law, with
resulting loss of revenues without compensation to such
third party.
For your perusal, I have enclosed a copy of the Metro-
politan News (a daily legal newspaper in Los Angeles)
article pertaining to the waiver you extended to us.
Sincerely,
ADRIAN WEISS PRODUCTIONS
Adrian Whise
Adrian Weiss
AW/k
Enclosure
FORD & LIBRARY CERALD
WORLD WIDE PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION
205 SO. BROADWAY
politanTlems
LOS ANGELES
CALIFORNIA 90012
ALL
DEPARTMENTS:
628-4384
DAILY LEGAL NEWSPAPER
geles, California
Tuesday, April 27, 1976
12 Pages - 15 Per Copy
Waiver
President Waives Right to
(Continued from Page 1)
the FCC will now become
academic on thise two films
Equal Time From Showing of
since President Ford has con-
sented to grant the waiver ap-
plied for. on these two pictures
2 Old Ronald Reagan Films
only. the only ones applied for.
It therefore follows that these
By a Press Correspondent
two pictures are the only ones
A precedental interpretation being deprived of the use of his
of Reagan's old movies that can
of the Equal Time Provision property without due of
GERALD LIBRARY P FORD
PL/7nd
April 16, 1976
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
PHILIP W. BUCHEN
SUBJECT:
Request for Equal Time Waiver
Adrian Weiss Productions has requested that you waive your
rights under Section 315 of the Communications Act to permit
the television broadcast of two of Ronald Reagan's old movies --
"Cattle Queen of Montana" and "Tennessee's Partner."
Recommendation
Stu Spencer, Bob Visser and I recommend that you sign the
attached waiver.
PWB:BNR:ns
GERALD LIBRARY ? FORD
file w/ yellow
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 20, 1976
Dear Mr. Weiss:
It is my understanding that Adrian Weiss Productions has
requested that I waive my rights for equal time under
Section 315 of the Communications Act so that it may
broadcast a number of Mr. Ronald Reagan's old films.
This waiver would eliminate any claim for equal time that
might arise from the showing of "Cattle Queen of Montana"
and "Tennessee's Partner".
Since the nature and context of these two films do not relate
to or affect the political process, I am willing to grant such
waiver of my rights to equal time provided under Section 315
of the Communications Act.
Sincerely, Herald R. 7nd
Mr. Adrian Weiss
Adrian Weiss Productions
186 North Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, California 90210
FORD & LIBRARY QERALD
President Ford Committee
1828 L STREET, N.W., SUITE 250, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20036 (202) 457-6400
April 15, 1976
MEMORANDUM
FROM: TO: Legal Tim Philip Ryan Counsel Buchen TR
RE: Request for Waiver -- Adrian Weiss Productions
After conversations with Stu Spencer of this office
and Mr. Adrian Weiss, we agree with your decision to
recommend a waiver of "equal time" under Section 315 of
the Communications Act for the two Reagan films noted on
the draft letter to the President. If you have any
comments or changes, please contact us.
T.T.R.
FORD is LIBRARY 07V830
The President Ford Committee, Rogers C.B. Morton, Chairman, Robert C. Moot, Treasurer. A copy of our Report is filed with
the Federal Election Commission and is available for purchase from the Federal Election Commission, Washington, D.C. 20463.
DRAFT OF LETTER TO
ADRIAN WEISS PRODUCTIONS
Mr. Adrian Weiss
Adrian Weiss Productions
186 North Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, California 90210
Dear Mr. Weiss:
It is my understanding that Adrian Weiss Productions
has requested that I waive my rights for equal time under
Section 315 of the Communications Act so that it may broad-
cast a number of Mr. Ronald Reagan's old films. This waiver
would eliminate any claim for equal time that might arise
from the showing of "Cattle Queen of Montana" and
"Tennessee's Partner".
Since the nature and context of these two films do
not relate to or affect the political process, I am willing
to grant such waiver of my rights to equal time provided
under Section 315 of the Communications Act.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Tim
E
March 30, 1976
I
Dear Bob:
As I discussed with you over the telephone, Adrian Weiss
Productions would like to receive a waiver from President
Ford of his rights under Section 315 of the Communications
Act. The purpose of this waiver is to eliminate any claim
to equal time on the part of the President that might arise
from the use of broadcast facilities to show two of Ronald
Reagan's old movies which are owned by Adrian Weiss Productions.
Enclosed are copies of letters received from the Productions
firm. The information sheet describing the two pictures was
not enclosed, but I learned by telephone that the titles of
the two films are:
"Cattle Queen of Montana"
"Tennessee's Partner"
I assume the titles say enough about the nature of the films.
I would think it appropriate to grant the requested waiver,
but I think this is a matter for the President Ford Committee
to dispose of by an appropriate recommendation to the President
and, if a waiver is recommended, a form of letter for the
President to sign.
Enclosed also is a copy of a 1966 Federal Communication Commis-
sion's letter which deals with the subject of Section 315 waivers.
I believe Mr. Weiss would appreciate a prompt response from you.
Sincerely,
This
Philip W. Buchen
Counsel to the President
Mr. Robert Visser
General Counsel
President Ford Committee
1828 L Street, N. W.
Washington, D. C. 20036
GERALD LIDRARY P FORD
Enclosures
The National Broadcasting Company Presents
MEET THE PRESS
America's Press Conference of the Air
Guest: SENATOR PAUL D. LAXALT, (R., Nev.)
National Chairman, Citizens for Reagan
VOLUME 20
SUNDAY, MAY 16, 1976
NUMBER 20
Merkle Press Inc.
Printers and Periodical Publishers
Lubsidiary of Pubco Corporation
Box 2111. Washingun, D. C. 20013
25 cents per copy
FORD & LIBRARY QERALD
Panel: ToM PETTIT, NBC News
GEORGE F. WILL, Syndicated columnist
LOU CANNON, The Washington Post
Moderator: BILL MONROE
ггэяч ЭНТ T33M
Executive Producer: BILL MONROE
Producer: BETTY COLE DUKERT
Permission is hereby granted to news media and
magazines to reproduce in whole or in part. Credit
to NBC's MEET THE PRESS will be appreciated.
FORD is LIBRARY QERALD
MEET THE PRESS
MR. MONROE: Our guest today on MEET THE PRESS is
Senator Paul Laxalt, Republican of Nevada. Senator Laxalt is the
former Governor of Nevada and is currently National Chairman
of Citizens for Reagan. A lawyer, he is serving his first term in
the Senate.
We will have the first questions now from Tom Pettit of NBC
News.
MR. PETTIT: Senator Laxalt, as a man with some interest in
and experience in gambling, would you bet money that Ford is
washed up right now?
SENATOR LAXALT: No, I don't think so at this point. I still
think we have a lot of question marks, and I harken back to the
Florida primary when a lot of people washed the Reagan can-
didacy out. In our case I am increasingly and continually con-
cerned about resurrections, and I think this is the year of political
surprises.
MR. PETTIT: You are afraid the President will be resurrected
in Michigan?
SENATOR LAXALT: It could happen. We don't have any
signs of that as yet. Everything looks good in Michigan. I can't
believe that we are going to win the state, but it could happen.
MR. PETTIT: That is kind of the party line though, isn't it;
you are just fooling us when you say you don't expect to win?
SENATOR LAXALT: No, no, that is not the party line. We
are campaigning in a state where we have an incumbent Presi-
dent who is a resident of that state and has been for a long
while, and I think that we would be less than realistic if we got
into a state of euphoria and thought we were going to win Michi-
gan. I don't think we are going to win it.
MR. PETTIT: What if you win it? Would you like that?
SENATOR LAXALT: It would be a tremendous development.
MR. PETTIT: Would that wash up Ford?
SENATOR LAXALT: I think it would cause serious difficulties
for his campaign, unquestionably.
(Announcements)
1
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
MR. WILL: Senator, President Ford now has the worst record
SENATOR LAXALT: I don't perceive this year as being the
in intra-party competition of any incumbent President since Taft
least bit the same as the conditions in '64 from several stand-
in 1912. Why is the President SO weak?
points.
First of all, we don't have a Lyndon Johnson who is the bene-
SENATOR LAXALT: I think part of the problem is he is not
ficiary of the Kennedy myth in the picture.
perceived as a legitimate incumbent. That is part of it. Secondly,
I think the people generally are far more conservative in their
I think that he has in Ronald Reagan probably one of the strong-
political outlooks than they were in '64. In '64 there still was a
est competitors anyone could possibly have in a primary. It is a
feeling that Washington could solve most of the problems in
combination of those factors, and I think it is becoming increas-
this country.
ingly apparent as this campaign goes on that the real strength
There isn't the strong divisive type of feeling between the
of the Reagan candidacy is Ronald Reagan.
competing factions, as we saw in '64 as between the Goldwater
MR. WILL: Ronald Reagan decided to run against Ford when
and the Rockefeller people. Uniformly around the country I find
the Ford presidency was barely a year old. Was there something
now that Ford people think well of Ronald Reagan and Ronald
that Ford could have done which would have either stopped
Reagan's people think well of Gerald Ford. They simply feel there
Reagan from making that decision to run or that would have
are two strong candidates and they hope to produce the strongest
taken the steam out of a Reagan candidacy very early?
one of the two.
Combined with that, is the fact that we see every week more
SENATOR LAXALT: I think at least a couple of things come
and more evidence that the Reagan candidacy is appealing to
to mind. I think the designation of Nelson Rockefeller as Vice
many conservative Democrats and independents throughout the
President didn't gladden the hearts of conservatives. I think that
country, and I personally think that this year we have an entirely
had he vetoed the tax bill last year that that would have made a
different ballgame than we had in '64.
great deal of difference and, in the judgment I think of many,
many Republicans, would have militated against the Reagan
MR. CANNON: In the Texas campaign, Senator, there were
candidacy.
some very strong words on both sides. It seems to me as the
primaries have heated up it has become more divisive. You your-
MR. WILL: Reagan really has begun to succeed with foreign
self have said as much at one point.
policy issues to a degree, surprising to many people. Is it possible
Isn't it going to be necessary, if Reagan were the nominee, to
that if President Ford had fired Kissinger instead of Schlesinger,
try to put the party back together again by getting a Vice Presi-
or fired Kissinger as well as Schlesinger, that this would have
dent, let's say, a runningmate who would be acceptable to the
taken the steam out of a Reagan candidacy?
other side of the party?
SENATOR LAXALT: I think it would have made a great deal
SENATOR LAXALT: Perhaps. I think there is going to be
of difference. It is increasingly apparent, as we progress with
every need, of course, to put the party back together again, but
this campaign, that Henry Kissinger is a strong issue as far as
that presupposes that the party is split. I have noticed in these
the Reagan candidacy is concerned. Each time that the Governor
various states that just about the time that the situation in a
makes reference to the fact that he would not reappoint him or
given primary state becomes difficult we have an election, and it
keep him on, that it meets with strong applause, and I rather
cools off. I don't find any nationwide party divisiveness as such.
think, looking back, that in the area of foreign policy, if Jim
Schlesinger had been retained and Henry Kissinger had been let
MR. CANNON: Do you think Reagan can win a general elec-
out, it would have made a world of difference in this campaign.
tion against Jimmy Carter?
MR. CANNON: Senator, there are a lot of people out in your
SENATOR LAXALT: I don't think there is any question about
home state who think you might have made it to the Senate a.
it. I think that we are finding here-and it is not a matter of
lot sooner, in 1964 to be exact, except for the Barry Goldwater
just semantics-we are finding in this country a re-emergence of
presidential candidacy.
a new majority. We are finding that conservatives throughout
As I remember, you lost by 41 votes and Senator Goldwater
this country are going to marshal together and present, I think,
lost something like 60-40 percent.
a formidable political challenge, and comes the general election,
Doesn't the Republican Party face very much the same kind of
personally I think that Ronald Reagan has the potential of
a problem this year, no matter who wins the nomination? How
putting together the same basic elements against Jimmy Carter
that Richard Nixon did in 1972.
are you going to put the party back together again for the fall
election?
MR. MONROE: Senator, some people think that Governor
2
3
Reagan is engaged in some demagoguery on the Panama Canal
so the Panamanians aren't hurt, and I get back to step one: That
issue.
Canal is ours. It is sovereign United States territory, and I think
For example, is he not overdoing it when he talks of the
it would be exceedingly harmful to this country to give it up.
United States owning the Panama Canal? Considering, for ex-
ample, that William Howard Taft said in 1905 that the treaty
MR. MONROE: What about the practicality of Governor
did not give us outright ownership of that zone?
Reagan's position in terms of not negotiating any lessening of
control over a period of decades in connection with that Canal,
SENATOR LAXALT: There is every indication to the con-
considering the fact that the value of the Canal is declining. Big
trary, starting with the Treaty itself. The fact is that we took
ships, both commercial and military, can't get through it any
over that Canal at the time the French were not able to complete
longer, and the Panamanians are considered by experts quite able
it. We negotiated with Colombia, insofar as the rights to the
to sabotage that Canal if they want to and put it out of business
ground were concerned. We bought out the private landowners on
if we don't bend some.
a fee simple basis. We went ahead and developed the Canal.
SENATOR LAXALT: I can't believe that the threat of sabo-
We have had ruling after ruling on every official level indicat-
ing that we have sovereignty in the Canal. The Supreme Court of
tage should cause us to give up the Canal. After all, we had
security measures there in that Canal in World War II and Korea
the United States ruled that we had sovereignty in the Canal. So
what we are talking of basically in Panama, we are talking about
that were entirely satisfactory. That to me doesn't pose any
particular threat whatsoever.
possibly being coerced out of our own property by the Panaman-
ian people and particularly by the dictator there. So I view this to
Governor Reagan has not advocated going to war over the
be a very, very strong issue, and certainly the American people
Canal at all. He simply indicated that the matter of sovereignty,
do.
of title, is not negotiable, and that comes straight from the rec-
We didn't initiate this issue. This issue came in the question
ord. It comes from statements that have been made by prominent
and answer sessions that we had in all those primary states, and
public figures in this country for a long time, including the Presi-
I found that to my great satisfaction the American people are
dent, including Barry Goldwater, and so over the years it has
far ahead of Washington in describing and defining this type of
been uniformly felt here with the exception of the State Depart-
issue.
ment, which has been playing its own game in this thing, it has
been uniformly felt that we had sovereign rights in the Panama
MR. MONROE: Isn't the kind of control we are now exercising
Canal.
over the Canal a sort of relic of colonialism, when you consider
that the United States apparently had some hand in prompting
MR. PETTIT: I am a little confused by that. If the Canal is,
the revolt of the Panamanians from Colombia and then signed
sovereign and you believe the Canal is sovereign, would you, say,
this treaty with them, according to historians, at a time when
advocate statehood for the Canal Zone?
Panama more or less was forced to sign the treaty, because they
SENATOR LAXALT: Oh, I don't think it is the type of situa-
had nobody else to protect them against Colombia after that war
tion which would call for-
and considering the fact that all Latin American countries will be
terribly hostile to us if we persist in maintaining complete control
MR. PETTIT: Advocating full citizenship?
over that Canal Zone?
SENATOR LAXALT: No, I don't think so.
SENATOR LAXALT: Let me answer your question in reverse
order.
MR. PETTIT: Then how can you say it is sovereign?
I see no evidence of the Latin American countries being dis-
SENATOR LAXALT: Well, it is sovereign from the standpoint
turbed about this. I think this is rhetoric. I don't think any of
that from the first time that we went in there we were treated as
them have that kind of interest. Colonialism implies, to me at
a sovereign. We were given title to the property in fee simple,
least, exploitation, and if there is a country that hasn't been
and we have since that time performed all the attributes of
exploited at all in this situation, it is Panama. We have done
sovereignty.
tremendous things for the Panamanian economy ever since we
built that Canal, and I don't know of anybody who has profited
MR. PETTIT: But you don't advocate giving the people who
more from the situation than the Panamanians themselves.
live there the same rights that people who live in the States do-
At the present time it is contemplated that eventually we will
SENATOR LAXALT: They have basically at the present time
even build a third canal there, which would result in an outlay,
some of the same rights as people in the States do. They have
an addition to the Panamanian economy, of over $1 billion, and
rights to citizenship under their special act. But the fact is, we
4
5
have within their country our property which distinguishes it as
dent probably will come into the convention with delegates
far as I am concerned.
around 950 each.
MR. PETTIT: Why is Senator Goldwater avoiding Ronald
MR. WILL: That is about 200 short of the needed total to
Reagan like the plague? I mean, he was Mr. Conservative. Reagan
nominate. Doesn't the President have an enormous advantage
learned at his feet. It is like Socrates calling Plato a bum not to
with all his powers and prerequisites and plums in dickering in a
endorse him.
convention? How do you propose to fight an incumbent Presi-
SENATOR LAXALT: I don't know that Senator Goldwater
dent in bargaining?
has been avoiding Mr. Reagan like the plague.
SENATOR LAXALT: I like to think that the delegates who
attend Kansas City and who are looking for a nominee are not
MR. PETTIT: Where has he been with him?
going to be susceptible to goodies. I like to think that when they
SENATOR LAXALT: I think he has been with him to the
come to Kansas City they are going to be thinking in terms of
extent that there has been no endorsement, and from the be-
the interests of the party and the country, and, very frankly, I
ginning Barry Goldwater has indicated to me, as well as others,
think their principal consideration will be one of electability.
that in this race he is between a rock and a hard place, which
They are going to take a look at these two candidates and say to
he is.
themselves: Which of these two will make the strongest candi-
On the one hand, he owes an allegiance, he thinks, to an in-
date in a general election, and it is my view that when they make
cumbent President who has been a friend of his for a long while.
that determination, at that time in August it will be Ronald
On the other hand, there is nobody who helped Barry Gold-
Reagan.
water more in 1964 than Ronald Reagan, so it is a very difficult
MR. WILL: The Democrats already will have chosen their
position for him, and the only difference I have been able to
nominee, and it looks at this point as though it may very well
discern so far has been on the Panamanian issue.
be Jimmy Carter, and it looks as though he may very well be
a very strong candidate in the South. Might it not make sense
MR. PETTIT: Otherwise Ronald Reagan is just like Gold-
then for the Republican Party to pick a candidate who might
water?
run tougher in the north and in the east than Ronald Reagan
SENATOR LAXALT: In what respect?
who, of course, didn't even run in the New York and Pennsyl-
vania primaries?
MR. PETTIT: You just said that the only difference is on the
Canal Zone.
SENATOR LAXALT: Possibly, but I think that when you are
looking at Carter, his principal strength, as I have been able to
SENATOR LAXALT: The only difference between the two
discern it, is the fact that he is non-Washington. That is the
that I perceive in this particular election has been over the Pana-
thrust of the Carter candidacy, and to me a Carter-Ford race
ma Canal issue.
would be a difficult one, extremely difficult for the Republicans
because you would have Carter, who is non-Washington, running
MR. PETTIT: Then in this election the two of them are alike?
against the establishment. In that type of scenario, it is my view
SENATOR LAXALT: I think basically their approach is alike,
Ronald Reagan would be a far stronger candidate against a
yes.
Jimmy Carter than Gerald Ford.
MR. WILL: Senator, June 8th is the date of the last three
MR. CANNON: Doesn't a Carter candidacy also blunt Ronald
primaries. How many delegates will Ronald Reagan have com-
Reagan's main point? He has been talking against Washington.
mitted to him publicly on that day?
He has been giving, as you know, that same speech for many
years. How is that speech going to help him against Jimmy
SENATOR LAXALT: After the California primaries? It de-
Carter?
pends entirely on what happens in Michigan. We have already
SENATOR LAXALT: I think that the speech, as you call it-
experienced unpredictable results as a result of the momentum
perhaps it gets a little boring to the people who hear it often, but
of the Texas primary. If Michigan should come to us, I don't
I don't think that it is the least bit boring for people who are ex-
think we could predict at all what is going to happen in some of
posed to it for the first time.
these other primary states. Assuming that Michigan goes to the
President and assuming that California stays with Ronald
It is my view that as the Carter candidacy progresses and as
Reagan, I would assume that Governor Reagan and the Presi-
he is made to take positions on issues, that it is going to be
demonstrated that he is of rather liberal persuasion. By the time
6
7
this general election comes along I think you will find that Ronald
Reagan will be running basically as the conservative and Jimmy
no federal income tax in 1970, this, after an examination of the
Carter wil be running basically as a liberal.
limited material he publicized about his own tax returns. Also
MR. CANNON: You and other spokesmen for Reagan have
that he paid very light income taxes in subsequent years com-
consistently said that you think the former Governor would run
pared with the size of his income.
a better race against Carter than Ford would.
There is no indication here that anything illegal was done. Ap-
What evidence is there of this? All of the polls that I have
parently it was entirely legal.
seen show Carter winning, and they don't show Reagan doing any
On the other hand, isn't it a political drawback for the Gover-
better. Is there any objective evidence that Reagan would in fact
nor to be shown to have made this kind of use of the tax laws,
do better?
to pay little or no taxes on his income?
SENATOR LAXALT: Yes. I think the best objective evidence
SENATOR LAXALT: I don't know the details concerning that
is the results of the primaries so far. As I have indicated here,
except that I know it was rather strongly discussed in the State
the strength of Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, I think, prin-
of California when it arose, and apparently it arose through some
cipally is that they are non-Washington. The polls at this point,
business losses that the Governor had incurred, and through some
Mr. Cannon, don't mean anything. I have never seen a year
shelters too.
where polls have less validity than they do this year.
I don't know that a Governor, any other public official, has to
As an example, in Nebraska, our surveys indicated a couple of
be treated on any other different basis than any other taxpayer.
weeks before that election that we were down 15 to 20 points, and
The fact that he had business losses and paid a lesser tax, to me,
yet we won that election by ten points. That means that there
doesn't present a problem.
was a swing in that state of 25 to 30 points, which leads me to
the conclusion that any early polls trying to describe the relative
MR. MONROE: Wouldn't he be stronger as a presidential can-
strengths of a Reagan or a Carter or a Ford are almost meaning-
didate, in the climate of these times, to make public the full de-
less at this point.
tails of his recent tax records, the way President Ford has done,
SO that everybody would know exactly what the tax situation was
MR. CANNON: Why, if Ronald Reagan is as acceptable as you
in regard to Governor Reagan?
clearly think he is, have SO few Republican Congressmen-I think
there are three Senators and maybe half a dozen House members
SENATOR LAXALT: It was my impression that within the
who have backed him-why doesn't he have any more support
last few weeks that a general disclosure concerning his tax rec-
than that?
ords has been made and is available.
SENATOR LAXALT: He is not part of the "buddy" system,
MR. MONROE: I think it was made available in much less de-
that is all. It is not complicated. He is not part of the Washing-
tail than the information that came from President Ford.
ton establishment, and when he announced his candidacy we
SENATOR LAXALT: That I am not privy to comment on,
found the great majority, the vast majority of the people in the
really. That is a matter he would have to decide, I guess, with
House and the Senate were with the President because they have
his accountants. But it is my understanding that he has made a
known him over the years, and many of them felt, perhaps with
disclosure which would be adequate, I think, by most standards.
justification, that they should continue to support an incumbent
President.
MR. MONROE: Would you like to see Governor Reagan as a
But Ronald Reagan is not a member of the club, and that to me
political matter make this kind of material available in the same
presents the greatest strength that he has in this candidacy be-
full detail that we have gotten from President Ford?
cause when he comes to this town as President he is not going to
owe any obligations in either the House or the Senate, and he is
SENATOR LAXALT: I think it is the year of disclosure, and
going to be able to call the shots as he sees them. I have a sus-
it is simply a question of whether or not he has made the type of
picion if he has the type of hostility and obstruction that other
disclosure that would meet that standard, and it is my impression
Presidents have seen in Congress that he will do as he did in
that he has.
California and go over their heads to the people, and you are go-
MR. MONROE: We have about two minutes.
ing to see some congressional changes made very quickly up here.
MR. PETTIT: I hate to burden you with the Canal Zone, but
MR. MONROE: Senator Laxalt, Eileen Shanahan reports in
the candidate has made a major issue of it, of course. Does he
The New York Times that Governor Reagan almost certainly paid
believe that residents of the Canal Zone have the right to self-
government?
8
9
SENATOR LAXALT: I don't know that I have ever heard him
campaign law for reasons such as this. How do you charge this
comment on that.
type of expense? It probably should be charged, but I don't know
how to do it as a practical matter.
MR. PETTIT: Do you?
MR. CANNON: You have got the only state where all three
SENATOR LAXALT: I do.
Democrats, Church, Brown and Carter, are on the ballot. Who is
MR. PETTIT: That they should have self-government?
going to win in Nevada?
SENATOR LAXALT: Yes.
SENATOR LAXALT: I understand that Governor Brown is
running very well there, and that is principally because he is a
MR. PETTIT: What form would that take?
neighboring governor.
SENATOR LAXALT: What form would it take?
MR. MONROE: Thank you, Senator Laxalt, for being with us
MR. PETTIT: Yes.
today on MEET THE PRESS.
SENATOR LAXALT: I don't understand. Do you mean differ-
ent than what they presently have? I would like to see them have
more democratic rule within Panama.
MR. PETTIT: I am talking about the Zone.
SENATOR LAXALT: You are talking about the Zone, itself?
MR. PETTIT: Yes. Is there any local government in the Zone?
SENATOR LAXALT: At the present time?
MR. PETTIT: Yes.
SENATOR LAXALT: I am not that familiar with the form of
government in Panama to comment on it, personally.
MR. PETTIT: I am not talking about Panama, I am talking
about the Panama Canal Zone.
SENATOR LAXALT: I am not that familiar with the type of
government that you have in the Zone, and if I tried to answer
that question I would be bluffing, and I don't think I should.
MR. PETTIT: Does the candidate know?
SENATOR LAXALT: I assume he does, yes.
MR. WILL: Does the Reagan campaign plan to insist in some
way or another that Secretary Kissinger's domestic speaking
trips within the United States be charged against President
Ford's campaign expenditures?
SENATOR LAXALT: It hasn't been discussed.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
MR. WILL: What if he plans to go to California prior to the
California primary?
SENATOR LAXALT: I don't know how that should be treated.
It is increasingly apparent that the charging of expenses under
this new law is extremely difficult to calculate, and I am coming
fast to the impression that we have created a monster in this new
10
11
The Proceedings of
MEET THE PRESS
as broadcast nationwide by the National Broadcasting Company,
Inc., and printed and made available to the public to further in-
terest in impartial discussions of questions affecting the public
welfare. Transcripts may be obtained by sending a stamped,
self-addressed envelope and twenty-five cents for each copy to:
Merkle Press Inc. Box 2111, Washington, D. C. 20013
Subsidiary of Pubco Corporation
MEET THE PRESS is telecast every
Sunday over the NBC Television Net-
work. This program originated from
NBC in Washington, D.C.
Television Broadcast 12:30-1:00 P.M. EDT
17 17
GERALD LIBRARY ? FORD
REAGAN CALIFORNIA FUND
A Project of:
Young America's Campaign Committee
Dear Friend:
Your assistance on a most urgent project could mean the difference between
victory and defeat for Ronald Reagan in the June 8th primary in California--
the most important primary of the campaign.
That is why I am writing to you today.
Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan are in a virtual dead heat for convention
delegates coming into the California primary. The winner of the California
primary will take an extra 167 delegates to the convention.
These 167 delegates will mean the margin of victory for the Republican
presidential nominee. More delegates are at stake in California than New
Hampshire, Florida, Vermont, and North Carolina combined!
Ronald Reagan's stunning defeat of Gerald Ford in the North Carolina
primary was a result of his aggressive media campaign in that state prior to
the voting.
That is why the Reagan California Fund has been established by the Young
America's Campaign Committee. We intend to place spot radio advertisements
throughout California a week prior to the primary.
We have entered into an agreement with the nation's top producer of radio
advertisements.
Efrem Zimbalist, Jr., the star of the television series The FBI, has agreed
to do the narration for the ads.
They will be targeted in communities across California with the precision
that was apparent in the media blitz that brought Ronald Reagan victory in
North Carolina.
Production costs, distribution fees, etc., will be $25,000 and that amount
is needed at once. Unless we receive that amount by May 25, 1976, the ads by
Efrem Zimbalist, Jr., cannot be run.
These ads are the most economical and effective method for reaching the
millions of California voters. Ronald Reagan's chances of victory in California
will be severely set back without them. As a result, his chances for the
Republican nomination could be lost.
That is why it is vital that you send what you can today. Please send at
least $20 today. If you cannot send $20, we will be grateful for whatever you
can contribute. But we must have whatever your generous contribution by May 25.
FORD is LIBRARY QERALD
919-18th Street, N.W.
Suite 800
Washington, D. C. 20006
-2-
It is important to consider what Ronald Reagan's defeat could mean for
the Republican Party.
Consider the record of the Ford administration and the possibility of
its continuing should Ronald Reagan lose the California primary:
1. There would be more appointments of left-liberals into the
administration such as Charles Goodell and Nelson Rockefeller.
2. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger would remain, throughout
Ford's term, continuing the policy of one-way-street detente.
3. The United States would continue its second-rate military posture
and perhaps slip to third rate or fourth rate.
4. The United States would continue its policy of surrender of
American possessions such as the Panama Canal Zone.
5. Deficit spending would continue unabated, without a voice of
leadership coming from the White House.
Before you decide how much to give, I should explain that the Reagan
California Fund is an independent organization, entirely separate from the
Citizens for Reagan campaign committee.
Because it is an independent committee, the Reagan California Fund may
solicit funds from individuals beyond the $1000 limit. Thus, if you have al-
ready contributed the maximum $1000 to the official Citizens for Reagan cam-
paign committee, you may contribute up to an additional $24,000 to the Reagan
California Fund.
In addition, while the official Reagan effort in California is limited in
what it can spend on behalf of Ronald Reagan, our committee can wage an all-out
effort to win in California without government-enforced spending restrictions.
If any contribution could tip the scale for a Reagan victory, your contri-
bution to the Reagan California Fund could be it. Please be generous, and soon.
Thank you.
Sincerel)
Ron Robinson, National Chairman
Reagan California Fund
FORD LIBRARY & GERALD
Did you receive more than one copy of this appeal?
Please accept our apology if you did. We try to eliminate
duplications, but they sometimes do occur. If you do receive
a duplicate copy please help us spread the word by passing
it along to a friend. Thank you. We appreciate your under-
standing and cooperation.
Make necessary corrections in address shown below
RF10
ONE PERCENT FUND
WASHINGTON 1255 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE
DC 20036
FIRST CLASS
Permit No.
70140
Washington, D.C.
BUSINESS REPLY MAIL
No Postage Stamp Necessary if Mailed in the United States
POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY:
Young America's Campaign Committee
919-18th Street, N.W., Suite 800
Washington, D.C. 20006
Please make necessary changes if label attached
to reverse side is incorrect.
The REAGAN CALIFORNIA FUND is an independent committee unrestricted by
the $1000 individual limitation. Thus, even though you already may have contributed
$1000, you may still contribute as much as $24,000 to the Reagan California Fund.
Please note: Individual political donations are tax-deductible
up to a total of $100 per year.
I agree that vital radio ads for Ronald Reagan in California can make the
difference in the campaign. My check to help with those ads is enclosed:
$5,000
$1,000
$500
$250
$100
$50
$
Other
(Make all checks payable to: Young America's Campaign Committee and return in this prepaid envelope)
A federal statute requires us to request the following information from you:
OCCUPATION
BUSINESS ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
ZIP
A copy of our report(Young America's Campaign Committee) will be filed with the Federal Election Commission and will
be available for purchase from that office in Washington, D.C.
THE REAGAN CALIFORNIA FUND OF YOUNG AMERICA'S CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE IS NOT AUTHORIZED BY RONALD
REAGAN & RONALD REAGAN IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACTIVITIES OF THE COMMITTEE.
YOUNG AMERICA'S CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE
Air Date
Radio Spot Number
#2
Title
60 SECONDS
Narrator
EFREM ZIMBALIST, JR.
60 SECOND RADIO SPOT
I, LIKE YOU, AM CONCERNED ABOUT THE FUTURE OF THIS COUNTRY. I, LIKE
YOU, HAD HOPED THAT AFTER WATERGATE GERALD FORD WOULD LEAD US AWAY
FROM DEFICIT SPENDING, APPEASEMENT ABROAD, AND MILITARY WEAKNESS. I
HAVE CONCLUDED HE HAS NOT DONE THIS. INSTEAD HE HAS FIRED A SECRETARY
OF DEFENSE WHO DISAGREED WITH KISSINGER'S DETENTE, ACCEPTED AMERICA'S
STATUS AS THE SECOND STRONGEST NATION IN THE WORLD, IS ACQUIESCING IN
THE GIVE-AWAY OF THE PANAMA CANAL ZONE, AND HAS PRESIDED OVER $100
BILLION IN DEFICITS IN JUST TWO YEARS. RONALD REAGAN IS MY CHOICE FOR
PRESIDENT BECAUSE HE PROMISES A NEW SECRETARY OF STATE, THE RESTORATION
OF AMERICAN MILITARY SUPERIORITY, NO GIVE-AWAYS OF AMERICAN TERRITORY
SUCH AS THE PANAMA CANAL ZONE TO LEFTIST DICTATORS, AND, HE PROMISES
A BALANCED BUDGET. IF YOU BELIEVE AS I DO THAT STRONG LEADERSHIP IS
NEEDED IN THE WHITE HOUSE AS WE ENTER OUR TWO-HUNDREDTH YEAR, THEN I
URGE YOU TO VOTE FOR RONALD REAGAN IN THE REPUBLICAN PRIMARY. THIS IS
EFREM ZIMBALIST, JR. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING.
END
END
END
END
END
END
The
for radio sample
transcip transe is a
Primary before the one
week catifornia the
Planning
FORD is LIBRARY CERVID
CLEARY, GOTTLIEB, STEEN & HAMILTON
1250 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20036
THE
69 I Wd 61 IVAI 9661
Barry Roth, Esq.
The White House
By Hand:
17th St. door,
EOB mailroom
Cooper
COMMISSION
FEDERAL ELECTION COMMISSION
1325 K STREET N.W.
AARKIL
WASHINGTON,D.C. 20463
February 23, 1976
STATES
E
OC 1975-121
Ronald Robinson, Chairman
Young America's Campaign Committee
919 18th Street, Suite 800
Washington, D. C. 20006
Dear Mr. Robinson:
This responds further to your letter of November 25,
1975, requesting an advisory opinion, on whether the
Young America's Campaign Committee (YACC), may approve a
project entitled "Citizens Against Kennedy." The project
is designed to raise funds through mailings, and
advertisements placed in newspapers throughout the
country, for the purpose of adversely influencing any
presidential ambitions Senator Kennedy may entertaim. You
state that the project has neither sought nor obtaimed the
consent or approval of any person seeking nomination or
election to the Office of President or Vice President of
the United States, and ask whether the contribution and
independent expenditure limitations under the Federal
Election Campaign Act of 1971, as amended (the Act) H are
applicable.
The Supreme Court recently held in Buckley V. Valeo,
44 U.S.L.W. 4127 (S.C. January 30, 1976), that the
Commission as constituted could not be given statutory
authority to issue advisory opinions. Although this part
of the Court's judgment was stayed for 30 days, the
Commission has determined that it will not issue further
advisory opinions under 2 U.S.C. $437£ during the sitay
period. Thus, this letter should be regarded as am
opinion of counsel, rather than an advisory opiniom.
Regarding independent expenditure limitations, the
Court held in Buckley, inter alia, that §608 (e) of Title 18,
United State Code, is unconstitutional. Thus, the YACC, may
make unlimited expenditures on behalf of the "Citizens
Against Kennedy" project from funds contributed to the
Committee. Of course, since YACC is a "political committee"
AMERICAN
1776-1376
GERALD LIDEARY R FORD
- 2 -
under the Act, these independent expenditures will have to
be reported. See 2 U.S.C. $434.
The Supreme Court opinion did, however, lay down a
test for what constitutes an independent expenditure and
what would be considered a contribution in kind to a
candidate and therefore subject to the limits of 18 U.S.C.
$608(b). See Buckley, supra, fn. 53 at pp. 40-41 of the
Slip Opinion. Under that test, inter alia, cooperation
with or consent of any candidate (not just the candidate
or persons mentioned in the project) would make the cost
of the project a contribution in kind to the candidate
whose cooperation or consent was obtained and therefore
subject to the limits of 18 U.S.C. $608(b).
With regard to contribution limitations, I am of the
opinion that only the $25,000 aggregate calendar year
limit on individuals under 18 U.S.C. §608 (b) (3) is
applicable since the money received is intended to
influence the course of a Federal election. Thus, an
individual could contribute as much as $25,000 to the
YACC for the described project, provided he or she made
no other contributions with respect to the 1976 elections.
The foregoing constitutes an opinion of counsel
which the Commission has noted without objection.
Sincerely yours,
John G. Murphy,
General Counsel
FORD & LIBRARY DERALD
128
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 25, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
BARRY ROTH
FROM:
DAVE GERGEN
SUBJECT:
Reagan Solicitation
Two friends of mine have recently received the attached
solicitation from the Reagan California Fund. The letter
says the Fund is an independent committee and because of
that status, a donor who has already given $1000 directly
to Ronald Reagan can now give an additional $24,000 to
the Fund.
I am informed that the size of the requested contribution
appears to be in violation of the law. Can this be quickly
checked?
Many thanks.
5/25/76
Dave )
I've been working with Usser on
this for a is clear that the
maximum contribution they can receive
under the new law ( effective date:
may 11) is $5,000 Unsser is
argering to FEC that lemit for
6 named candidate should
he $1,000 even if it is an unauthould
committee Bob will probably lose on
this point, but at is worth Barr a try.
QERALD FORD LIBRARY
REAGAN CALIFORNIA FUND
A Project of:
Young America's Campaign Committee
GERALD 8 FORD
Dear Friend:
Your assistance on a most urgent project could mean the difference between
victory and defeat for Ronald Reagan in the June 8th primary in California--
the most important primary of the campaign.
That is why I am writing to you today.
Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan are in a virtual dead heat for convention
delegates coming into the California primary. The winner of the California
primary will take an extra 167 delegates to the convention.
These 167 delegates will mean the margin of victory for the Republican
presidential nominee. More delegates are at stake in California than New
Hampshire, Florida, Vermont, and North Carolina combined!
Ronald Reagan's stunning defeat of Gerald Ford in the North Carolina
primary was a result of his aggressive media campaign in that state prior to
the voting.
That is why the Reagan California Fund has been established by the Young
America's Campaign Committee. We intend to place spot radio advertisements
throughout California a week prior to the primary.
We have entered into an agreement with the nation's top producer of radio
advertisements.
Efrem Zimbalist, Jr., the star of the television series The FBI, has agreed
to do the narration for the ads.
They will be targeted in communities across California with the precision
that was apparent in the media blitz that brought Ronald Reagan victory in
North Carolina.
Production costs, distribution fees, etc., will be $25,000 and that amount
is needed at once. Unless we receive that amount by May 25, 1976, the ads by
Efrem Zimbalist, Jr., cannot be run.
These ads are the most economical and effective method for reaching the
millions of California voters. Ronald Reagan's chances of victory in California
will be severely set back without them. As a result, his chances for the
Republican nomination could be lost.
That is why it is vital that you send what you can today. Please send at
least $20 today. If you cannot send $20, we will be grateful for whatever you
can contribute. But we must have whatever your generous contribution by May 25.
-2-
It is important to consider what Ronald Reagan's defeat could mean for
the Republican Party.
Consider the record of the Ford administration and the possibility of
its continuing should Ronald Reagan lose the California primary:
1. There would be more appointments of left-liberals into the
administration such as Charles Goodell and Nelson Rockefeller.
2. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger would remain, throughout
Ford's term, continuing the policy of one-way-street detente.
3. The United States would continue its second-rate military posture
and perhaps slip to third rate or fourth rate.
4. The United States would continue its policy of surrender of
American possessions such as the Panama Canal Zone.
5. Deficit spending would continue unabated, without a voice of
leadership coming from the White House.
Before you decide how much to give, I should explain that the Reagan
California Fund is an independent organization, entirely separate from the
Citizens for Reagan campaign committee.
Because it is an independent committee, the Reagan California Fund may
solicit funds from individuals beyond the $1000 limit. Thus, if you have al-
ready contributed the maximum $1000 to the official Citizens for Reagan cam-
paign committee, you may contribute up to an additional $24,000 to the Reagan
California Fund.
In addition, while the official Reagan effort in California is limited in
what it can spend on behalf of Ronald Reagan, our committee can wage an all-out
effort to win in California without government-enforced spending restrictions.
If any contribution could tip the scale for a Reagan victory, your contri-
bution to the Reagan California Fund could be it. Please be generous, and soon.
Thank you.
Sincerely
Ron Robinson, National Chairman
Reagan California Fund
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
YOUNG AMERICA'S CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE
Air Date
Radio Spot Number
#2
Title
60 SECONDS
Narrator
EFREM ZIMBALIST, JR.
60 SECOND RADIO SPOT
I, LIKE YOU, AM CONCERNED ABOUT THE FUTURE OF THIS COUNTRY. I, LIKE
YOU, HAD HOPED THAT AFTER WATERGATE GERALD FORD WOULD LEAD US AWAY
FROM DEFICIT SPENDING, APPEASEMENT ABROAD, AND MILITARY WEAKNESS. I
HAVE CONCLUDED HE HAS NOT DONE THIS. INSTEAD HE HAS FIRED A SECRETARY
OF DEFENSE WHO DISAGREED WITH KISSINGER'S DETENTE, ACCEPTED AMERICA'S
STATUS AS THE SECOND STRONGEST NATION IN THE WORLD, IS ACQUIESCING IN
THE GIVE-AWAY OF THE PANAMA CANAL ZONE, AND HAS PRESIDED OVER $100
BILLION IN DEFICITS IN JUST TWO YEARS. RONALD REAGAN IS MY CHOICE FOR
PRESIDENT BECAUSE HE PROMISES A NEW SECRETARY OF STATE, THE RESTORATION
OF AMERICAN MILITARY SUPERIORITY, NO GIVE-AWAYS OF AMERICAN TERRITORY
SUCH AS THE PANAMA CANAL ZONE TO LEFTIST DICTATORS, AND, HE PROMISES
A BALANCED BUDGET. IF YOU BELIEVE AS I DO THAT STRONG LEADERSHIP IS
NEEDED IN THE WHITE HOUSE AS WE ENTER OUR TWO-HUNDREDTH YEAR, THEN I
URGE YOU TO VOTE FOR RONALD REAGAN IN THE REPUBLICAN PRIMARY. THIS IS
EFREM ZIMBALIST, JR. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING.
END
END
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This is
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GERALD R FORD LIBRARY
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PL/ Rengan
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 28, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR: DAVE GERGEN
FROM:
BARRY ROTH
BR
Referencing our conversations concerning contributions to
political committees making independent expenditures in
support of Ronald Reagan, the FEC is issuing today a general
statement of policy in this regard. The FEC policy permits
an individual to give $1,000 to Reagan or his authorized
committee (Citizens for Reagan) and up to $5,000 to any
unauthorized committee, as long as the individual does not
give to that committee with knowledge that the money will
in turn be contributed to the candidate. Such contributions
to candidates and political committees remain subject to the
$25,000 annual limit on political contributions.
For your information, Bob Visser had argued the position
with the FEC staff that an individual who had contributed
$1,000 to a candidate or his authorized committees could
not contribute at all to a committee making independent
expenditures, or else could only contribute up to $1,000 to
each such unauthorized committee. However, the FEC's
position is the better interpretation of the law.
This policy does not appear to affect independent expenditures
made by an individual or group of individuals, e.g., fifteen
persons join together and pay for a political advertisement in
a newspaper. In such cases, the individual has a direct control
over the expenditure, which he surrenders when he contributes
to a political committee. To the extent an individual's expenditures
exceed $100 per calendar year on behalf of a clearly identifiable
candidate, the individual must file expenditure reports with the FEC.
FORD & LIBRARY QERALD
2
With respect to the independent Reagan California Fund that
we discussed, they are being contacted by the FEC to insure
that they do not cash any checks in excess of $5,000 which
were received after May 11, and instead that they return the
checks to the contributors. Bob Visser will follow up with
the FEC compliance personnel to make sure this is being
done.
CC: Philip W. Buchen
Edward Schmults
FORD & LIBRARY