Ask the Scholar
Document scope · 1 page
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory.
For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.
Scholar Source Context
Document identity
localId
118569648
label
Senior Staff Meetings 1983 (5)
core
doc
dtoType
document
citationUrl
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
118569648
contentType
document
title
Senior Staff Meetings 1983 (5)
citationUrl
identifierLocal
137
collections
Records of the White House Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff (Reagan Administration)
Michael Deaver's Senior Staff Meeting Files
thumbnailUrl
largeImageUrl
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
118569648
coverageEndDate
logicalDate
1985-12-31
year
1985
coverageStartDate
logicalDate
1981-01-01
year
1981
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
2d9061d4d48a1290
ocrText
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual
collections.
Collection: Deaver, Michael
Folder Title: Senior Staff Meetings 1983
(5)
Box: 31
To see more digitized collections
visit: https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories
visit: https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection
Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
Citation Guidelines: https://reaganlibrary.gov/citing
National Archives
Catalogue: https://catalog.archives.gov/
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/3/83)
ACTION
ITEM
1. Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during swearing Speakes Duberstein
in of Ortega, visit of President Pereira, Minority
Business Week ceremony, and reception for Supreme Court
Justices. Tonight's speech to the Heritage Foundation
will also be covered. In addition, it was noted that the
3:15 congressional meeting will discuss arms control,
particularly build-down proposals.
2. Tomorrow's Schedule: Plan is for the President to make
Gergen
remarks on arms control tomorrow after his meeting with
Clark
Ambassador Rowny.
3. Cabinet Activity: A Cabinet meeting with the President
is scheduled for Thursday. Also, CCCT will meet this
afternoon without the President to discuss the telephone
rate situation.
4. Legislative Calendar: The Senate will take up legislation Speakes Duberstein
today that would make Martin Luther King's birthday a
national holiday; guidance re our position is that we
will sign the bill if it is passed. The Senate will also
consider the Labor-HHS and State-Justice Appropriations
Bills. Mark-up on our Civil Rights nominees will be held
Thursday; legislation reauthorizing the Commission is still
pending.
This week, the House will take up the supplemental, and
Duberstein
will try to resolve differences in conference on FSC
Darman
extension. The Export Administration Act will be debated
on Wednesday; a legislative strategy meeting will be held
to discuss our position and the prospects for change in
the Senate version.
5. Economic Figures: New unemployment figures will be
Feldstein
released on Friday.
6. Agency Budgets: It was mentioned that, despite a presi-
Clark
dential memo, DOD reportedly engaged in a flurry of "end
Wright
of fiscal year spending." Guidance is that we are
looking into this.
7. Handicapped: It was noted that this has been proclaimed Whittlesey
"Hire the Handicapped Week"; Mrs. Bush will be presenting
awards this week at DOC.
8. Organized Crime Commission: Questions regarding the
Speakes
executive director's resignation should be referred to DOJ.
STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/6/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Young American medals and Con-
Speakes
gressional barbecue will be photo ops.
2.
IMF Letter: Guidance is that Treasury is still dis-
Duberstein
cussing this matter with the Hill.
3.
Immigration: Guidance regarding O'Neill's statements Speakes
remains the same.
4.
Death of Cardinal Cooke: A Presidential statement
Speakes
will be released today. We will check on details
Cicconi
of the funeral, and will arrange for a small dele-
tion to represent the President.
5.
El Salvador: Guidance regarding aid request is
Speakes
that we expected the Senate to extend present
Duberstein
restrictions for one year; we should not yet comment
regarding action of the House subcommittee.
Legislative Calendar: The Conference Committee on
Duberstein
6.
FCC extension will probably conclude work today;
a Legislative Strategy meeting may be held this
morning on the subject. It was also noted that we
still need to secure Senate passage of a 14-day
extension of the Export Administration Act. The
Congress will recess at the end of the day, and
will return on October 17.
7.
Sherman Unger: Guidance is that we continue to
Speakes
support his nomination.
Fielding
8.
Deficit: Questions should be referred to Treasury
Speakes
regarding Secretary Regan's projection of a $100
billion deficit in FY 1985.
Civil Rights Nominees: This vote has been postponed
Duberstein
9.
subject to the call of the chair. The issue will
probably not be taken up until after the recess.
10. Kentucky Speech: It was mentioned that the current
Gergen
draft discusses the economy, with special emphasis
on the deficit.
STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/7/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1.
Unemployment: Total unemployment dropped in Septem-
Feldstein
ber from 9.4% to 9.1%; civilian unemployment dropped
from 9.5% to 9.3%. The total number of people employed
in the U.S. rose by 382,000, to reach a new record
total of 101.9 million. These figures have been
inserted in the President's speech to be delivered
this morning.
2.
Export Administration Act: The Senate remained in
Duberstein
session today to consider a 14-day extension of this
Act.
3.
Arming of Enforcement Agents: OMB is continuing to
Wright
monitor requests by various agencies, including EPA,
to authorize carrying of fire arms by their enforce-
ment agents.
4.
Drug Enforcement Program: Regarding legislation that Fuller
would create a "drug czar," the Justice Department
has formulated options which might satisfy certain
members of Congress. These options will be discussed
in a CCLP meeting.
5.
Commission on Central America: An executive order
Clark
has been prepared extending until February the time
Darman
for the commission to submit its report. The inten-
tion was to sign this order before the commission
leaves for Central America. However, the order will
be put on hold until after Judge Clark confers
today with Henry Kissinger.
6.
Secretary Watt: Guidance is unchanged regarding
Speakes
resignation rumors. No list of possible successors
has been drawn up, and Watt has neither offered
nor been asked to resign.
STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/11/83)
ACTION
ITEM
Today's Schedule: A photo op will be held during
Speakes
1.
today's meeting with Foreign Minister Wu of the
PRC. WH photos will be taken during brief meetings
with Bill Wilson and with Secretary Weinberger (who
is heading a delegation to South Korea). Also, it
was noted that there will be no press conference
this week.
Defense Budget: Regarding Post article on differ-
Speakes
2.
ences between Thayer and Lehman, questions should
be referred to DOD.
3.
Cabinet Activity: A Cabinet meeting will be held
Fuller
on Thursday, though the agenda is still undetermined.
FSC Extension: This bill, which both OMB and DOL
Darman
4.
support, has been circulated for staff comment. If
possible, it will be signed today.
5.
Civil Rights Commission: It was mentioned that the
Commission will issue a report criticizing the impact
of our budget policies on civil rights enforcement.
6.
Immigration: Guidance is that we continue to support Speakes
the Senate-passed version of this legislation, and
hope that the House will vote on it. Regarding our
objections to the House bill, these have already
been laid out by the Attorney General in a letter
to Rodino.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/12/83)
ACTION
ITEM
1.
Today's Schedule: The President's lunch at the
Speakes
Italian Embassy will be covered by the press.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/18/83)
ACTION
ITEMS
1.
Today's Schedule: A photo op will be held during lunch
Speakes
with specialized press.
2. News Conference: An announcement will be made this
Gergen
morning that a news conference will be held Wednesday
Speakes
night at 8:00 p.m. Briefing time has been set aside
for this afternoon and tomorrow.
3.
Iran-Iraq: NSC will provide press guidance regarding
McFarlane
comments by Secretary Shultz.
4. Lebanon: NSC will draft a statement for possible use with McFarlane
regard to recent sniping attacks on U.S. Marines.
5.
Martin Luther King: Legislation to create a King holiday
Duberstein
will be taken up on the Senate floor today, with a vote
Fielding
likely by tomorrow. In related action, the Department
of Justice has filed in opposition to Senator Helms'
attempt to break the seal on FBI's files regarding
Dr. King.
6.
Civil Rights Commission: We have discussed the status of Meese
our nominations with Senator Dole, and will try and reach
Duberstein
an agreement today. Committee vote is scheduled for
Thursday.
7.
Legislative Calendar: The Export Administration bill will Duberstein
be taken up on the House floor today, and work is expected
to conclude on the FSC conference report; the latter is
an 18-month extension, and is only $38 million over our
request. Also, it was noted that Judge Clark is beginning
his courtesy calls in connection with his confirmation.
8.
Intelligence Authorization Bill: State and CIA are work-
Duberstein
ing on this in the House, and are trying to arrange an
McFarlane
alternative to Boland/Zablocki. A Legislative Strategy
meeting may be set up prior to Senate consideration of
the issue on Friday.
9.
Debt Ceiling: A brief session will be held to review our Darman
position on this issue prior to meetings on the Hill today. Duberstein
10. Natural Gas: This legislation will probably be considered Duberstein
in the Senate within a week.
11. Enterprise Zones: We should be given a date this week
Duberstein
for a hearing before the Ways and Means Committee on this
issue.
STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/19/83)
ACTION
ITEM
1.
Today's Schedule: Secretary Shultz will meet briefly Speakes
with the President at 9:45. Photo ops will be held
during math and science awards, and visit to Air and
Space Museum.
2.
News Conference: The President will hear a two-hour Gergen
briefing prior to this evening's news conference.
The first hour will cover foreign affairs, and the
second domestic issues.
3.
Martin Luther King Holiday: This bill is expected
Duberstein
to pass the Senate today, with a vote by 4:00.
4.
Civil Rights Nominations: There has been no change
Meese
in the situation, though something might develop
Duberstein
today. The committee vote is scheduled for tomorrow.
FCC Syndication Rule: The President will be briefed
Fielding
5.
on this issue before tonight's news conference.
Duberstein
Legislative Calendar: Work on the Export Adminis-
Duberstein
6.
tration Act should be concluded on the House floor
today. The House is then expected to take up
Boland-Zablocki; a Legislative Strategy meeting
will be held on this today.
7.
Texas Drought: OMB and USDA will coordinate in
Wright
developing guidance for the press conference on the
Fuller
issue of whether surplus federal grain should be
given to west Texas ranchers.
8.
FSC Extension: The conference has reached a tentative Wright
agreement for an 18-month extension at $4.6 billion;
formal agreement is likely today.
9.
Visit to Air and Space Museum: It was suggested that
senior staff planning to attend should arrange for
transportation separate from the motorcade.
10. Saturday Radio Speech: No topic has yet been decided Gergen
on; ideas should be submitted to Dave Gergen.
11. Dee Jepsen: It was mentioned that Dee Jepsen will
be leaving the WH Friday to work in her husband's
re-election campaign.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/20/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during meeting
Speakes
with Prime Minister Craxi, and during departure. A photo
will be taken with the U.S. Ski Team, and a White House
photo will be taken during the medal presentation to
Richard Helms.
2.
News Conference: Staff should avoid explaining or expand-
ing on the President's remarks last night.
3.
United Nations: The Washington Times article speculating
Speakes
that Jim Baker might replace Ambassador Kirkpatrick is
completely erroneous. It was also noted that O'Leary
never spoke to Baker about the story.
4.
CCCT: Today's meeting with the President will discuss
Fuller
two issues: Alaskan oil export and the FCC Syndication
Rule. The former will involve a briefing on the obstacles
we would confront in any attempt to lift the export ban;
the latter is to discuss legislation that would delay
for five years any change in the present rule.
5.
Lebanon: A reconciliation conference is expected to
McFarlane
convene this weekend in Geneva.
6.
Grenada: Discussions are underway regarding the current
McFarlane
situation. At present there are 1,000 to 1,500 Americans
in Grenada.
7.
Saturday Radio Speech: NSC is working with Dave Gergen
Gergen
on a draft.
8.
Boland-Zablocki: We expect the House vote on this issue
Duberstein
today to be very difficult. Our judgment, however, is
that the Senate is in reasonably good shape, and this
conclusion is supported by a recent Senate committee vote.
9.
Legislative Calendar: The House will hold a full committee Duberstein
markup on the Defense Appropriations Bill; the Labor/
HHS Appropriations compromise is also up for House
approval. Congress will again try to reach final agree-
ment on FSC extension, and it was noted that Clinch River
is now included in a Senate appropriations bill.
10. Export Administration Act: Work on this has almost been
Duberstein
concluded on the House floor, and we are close to agree-
ment in the Senate.
11. GNP: The third quarter figure shows a 7.9% annual growth
Feldstein
rate. The "flash" figure was 7.0%. We are now at 6.7%
GNP growth for the year, which is well above our forecast
of 5.5%.
- 2 -
12. Martin Luther King Holiday: The question of how to handle Duberstein
the signing of this legislation will be discussed after
the Senior Staff meeting today.
WHITE HOUSE SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (10/25/83)
ACTION
ITEMS
Grenada: The Senior Staff received a quick overview of
McFarlane
1.
the situation with regard to Grenada. The President will
Duberstein
meet with Congressional leaders and will then make a
Fuller
public statement at 9:00 a.m. A meeting to brief the
Cabinet has been scheduled for 10:00 a.m.
Civil Rights Commission: It was mentioned that the
Speakes
2.
President has decided to remove the three holdover
Duberstein
commissioners for whom he has already nominated replace-
ments. A statement announcing this decision will be
released this morning.
WHITE HOUSE SENIOR STAFF ACTION ITEMS (10/26/83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Grenada: Guidance will be prepared to answer anticipated
McFarlane
questions regarding the legal basis for U.S. action. Also, Fielding
it was noted that poll data shows a high degree of public
Speakes
support for the President's decision.
2.
Presidential Speech: A draft of the speech on Lebanon
Gergen
and Grenada will be ready by noon today.
3.
Vice President: Last night the White House confirmed
Murphy
that the Vice President had gone to Beirut. The Vice
President will return to Washington late tonight, and
will substitute for the President at a political dinner
in Texas tomorrow.
Civil Rights Commission: It was mentioned that Senators
Duberstein
4.
Specter and Biden are seeking to revive the commission
as an arm of Congress. While their amendment has been
pulled down, they received a commitment that it could
be introduced on some other piece of legislation in the
future.
5.
Oregon Land Conveyance: It was noted that the paper
Wright
prepared by OMB on this legislation had a number of
serious omissions which lead to the embarrassment yes-
terday of a veto override. It was stressed that the
OMB memos should provide a fair restatement of the
various views and arguments with regard to particular
bills in order that the President can be aware of the
key information before making his decision.
6.
Legislative Calendar: The supplemental appropriations
Duberstein
bill will be taken up on the Senate floor today, and
the lead item for debate is Clinch River; a veto of
the overall bill is possible under certain circumstances.
(In addition, it was noted that the Water Resources
bill will probably not be added to the supplemental.)
The Defense appropriations bill will be considered
today on the House floor, with a major test vote
possible on MX late this afternoon.
7.
Tuition Tax Credits: The support coalition on this issue
Whittlesey
is coming in for a meeting tomorrow. A status report
Duberstein
on the Congressional situation will be needed for the
meeting.
8.
Republican Jewish Coalition: About 200 members of this
Whittlesey
group will be here today for a series of briefings. We
will stress the need for help from the Jewish community
during Congressional consideration of the Beirut situation.
9.
Deficit: The final FY 1983 deficit is $195 billion. This Feldstein
figure will be released today by Secretary Regan.
WHITE HOUSE SENIOR STAFF ACTION ITEMS (10/27/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: The President will meet with Prime McFarlane
Minister Compton of St. Lucia at 1:30 today; a White
Speakes
House photo will be taken. There will be no photo
op today.
2.
Presidential Speech: A draft of the speech on Lebanon Gergen
and Grenada has gone in to the President. It will be
delivered at 8:00 p.m. this evening.
3.
Grenada: Film footage of troop landings, and other
McFarlane
information, will be released during the day. It
Gergen
was noted that we expect to find evidence of some
Whittlesey
atrocities once the prison is secured. Some reporters
will be allowed into Grenada today. Also, an effort
will be made to brief ethnic groups and others regard-
ing the situation in Grenada.
4.
Beirut: It was mentioned that news reports of an
Speakes
increase in the number of Marines classified as
"missing" are erroneous.
5.
Tuition Tax Credits: We are still working to attach
Duberstein
this to the math and science bill, though Senator
Whittlesey
Dole has still not agreed to such a move (despite
earlier commitments to attach the proposal to some
piece of legislation). This point will be made
during today's meeting with the Tuition Tax Credits
coalition.
6.
Drug Czar Proposal: An amendment to create this
Duberstein
position was attached to the supplemental. However,
we feel there is a chance of removing the provision
in conference.
7.
Legislative Calendar: The House has put aside action Duberstein
on the Defense appropriations bill until next Tuesday.
They will instead consider the Treasury appropriations
bill, and possibly the Export Administration Act. The
Senate Foreign Relations Committee will be briefed
today on Grenada by Ken Dam.
8.
Black Colleges: We have secured through administra-
Wright
tive means the funds necessary to convert a building
Fuller
for use by a Philadelphia black college. It was noted
that Senator Specter has nevertheless attached an
amendment to the supplemental for the same purpose.
9.
Civil Rights Commission: A law suit has been filed
Fielding
by two commissioners to block their removal. A
court hearing on a temporary restraining order will
continue today.
- 2 -
10. Clinch River: Though it appears that the project may Duberstein
have been killed by yesterday's vote, Howard Baker
may make one last attempt to save it.
WHITE HOUSE SENIOR STAFF ACTION ITEMS (10/28/83)
ACTION
ITEM
1.
Presidential Speech: Congressional reaction has been Whittlesey
very good, and the polls indicate a positive public
reaction. Follow-up briefings will be set up by
Public Liaison in coordination with the NSC.
2.
Dole's Deficit Reduction Proposal: Guidance on this
Speakes
subject will be developed after today's Senior Staff
meeting.
3.
Saturday Radio Speech: A draft has already gone Gergen
in to the President; the subject is arms reduction.
4.
Grenada: There is still some Cuban resistance on
McFarlane
the island, though the news is, for the most part,
still good. The press is now in Grenada.
Debt Limit: An amendment by Senator Armstrong was
Duberstein
5.
adopted, 70 to 15, that in effect extends the limit
Wright
for only 60 days. Reportedly, Senator Dole is con-
sidering a 15-day extension to exert pressure for
deficit reduction.
6.
Legislative Calendar: The House will debate domestic Duberstein
content legislation today, though no votes are ex-
pected. Yesterday the House passed the Export
Administration Act which now goes to conference. The
Senate yesterday passed the supplemental appropria-
tions bill.
7.
Veterans Day: We will try to do a radio speech on
Gergen
this subject the Saturday prior to Veterans Day.
8.
Lebanon-Grenada: A Legislative Strategy meeting will
Darman
be held today regarding Congressional efforts to cut
Duberstein
off funds and invoke the War Powers Act in these
situations.
9.
Leading Indicators: The September figure is up
Feldstein
0.9%. Also, the August figure was revised to reflect
an increase rather than a decline.
10. FTC Reauthorization Bill: It was noted that attempts Wright
are being made to include an antitrust exemption for
lawyers in this legislation.
11.
Pre-Publication Review: Senator Mathias has added an McFarlane
amendment to a State Department authorization bill
Wright
which requires a delay in implementing this rule.
Bob Kimmitt will negotiate with Mathias regarding
possible administrative actions which might satisfy
him in lieu of an amendment.
- 2 -
12. A-122: The new proposal is ready for release, though
Wright
it may not be published until next week. Business
Whittlesey
groups will be briefed on specifics of the proposed
rule at that time.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(11/03/83)
ACTION
ITEM
1. Today's Schedule: The President will read a statement
Speakes
regarding the Mideast envoy today in the briefing room
at 9:45. Wire service photos will be taken during signing
of the Diabetes Month proclmation.
2. Legislative Calendar: In the Senate, a cloture vote will Duberstein
be held on natural gas deregulation; after that, the Senate
will likely consider either the Intelligence authorization
bill or the Defense appropriations bill. The House will
vote on domestic content legislation and though the bill
will pass, we expect to show veto strength. Yesterday the
House approved the DOD appropriations bill, and defeated a
move to cut off funds for U.S. troops in Lebanon. Also,
hearings on Judge Clark's nomination have concluded, and we
expect to work out an early confirmation date by next week.
3. PIK Program: Fuller will follow-up with USDA regarding
Fuller
the GAO report on possible illegal payment levels in the
PIK program.
4. Cabinet Activity: CCEA will meet at 8:45 today to discuss Fuller
the renewable energy tax credit and the question of whether
it should be extended beyond the present expiration date.
5. West Texas Drought: USDA continues to state that surplus Fielding
grain cannot legally be released to west Texas ranchers
Fuller
except under specific conditions which have not been met.
Texas has filed suit to compel release of the grain, and
it was suggested that the Justice Department might advise
the WH regarding proper interpretation of the laws in
question.
6. Grenada: Gergen and Sims will discuss steps regarding the Gergen Sims
Grenada situation which could be announced from the WH.
7. General Revenue Sharing: This issue is now in conference. Wright
Our position remains that we would veto an amount above
$4.6 billion.
8. Private Sector Survey on Cost Control: It was noted that Wright
Congressional hearings will be held regarding this group's
suggestion for budget savings. Wright will check on what
type of testimony will be offered.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(11/07, 83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. Today's Schedule: Photo op will be held during the event
Speakes
involving U.S. medical students from Grenada. Also, wire
service photos will be taken during the Philadelphia Urban
Education Foundation announcement.
2. Andropov: Guidance is that we do not normally comment on Speakes
the health of foreign leaders.
3. Legislative Calendar: The Senate will take up the defense Duberstein
appropriations bill today, and will likely finish by tomor-
row after considering amendments on MX, chemical weapons,
etc. The Senate will then consider Civil Rights Commission
reauthorization. Judge Clark's nomination will go to mark-
up Wednesday. The House will likely consider dairy legisla-
tion, telephone rate bill, and the State-Commerce appropria-
tions bill.
4. Continuing Resolution: In return for allowing an amend-
Duberstein
ment to raise foreign assistance funds, the House rule
also allows amendments that add a total of $2.5 billion for
education and housing. We will send a strong veto signal
on this, and will try to have it dropped in conference.
5. Tuition Tax Credits: The coalition met with Sen. Dole
Duberstein
last week and pressed for a decision on which bill to use
Darman
as a vehicle. A meeting will be held later today to dis-
cuss strategy on this.
6. Energy Tax Credits: The Administration has not yet taken
Fuller
a position on whether to renew this program. It was de-
cided, however, that there is no need to take action at
this time.
7. Telephone Rate Legislation: The issue of whether to
Fuller
formally oppose the Wirth bill will be presented to the
Duberstein
President. The Senate bill, which is quite different,
will not be considered before January; thus there may be
some opportunity to make it more acceptable.
8. Grenada: Report is that the visit of the bipartisan
Duberstein
congressional delegation has gone well.
9. Senior Staff: The next senior staff meeting will be held
on Tuesday, November 15. During the Far East trip, Ken
Duberstein will be available for matters requiring immediate
decision or guidance. Regular channels for paper flow
should be followed.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(11/16/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. Today's Schedule: P. oto op will be held during the 1:00
Speakes
briefing on enterprise zones. We will also attempt to
Fuller
have Pierce, Regan, and Baldridge all testify at tomor-
row's committee hearing on this subject.
2. CCCT: A meeting with the President will be held at 10:00 Fuller
today to decide on tle lead agency for handling regulation
and promotion of reus eable launch vehicles.
3. Saturday Radio Speec} : The President has drafted a speech Gergen
regarding Jim Watt which will be circulated today. If
problems with Judge Clark's nomination are not resolved,
however, we should be prepared to go with a draft. It was
also noted that a taped message on religious liberty will
be broadcast on Thanksgiving Day, and the following Saturday
the President will discuss family values.
4. Tuition Tax Credits: The Senate will vote around 1:00 pm Duberstein
today on a motion to table tuition tax credits. We are
working hard on this vote and feel we may have a chance of
defeating the motion.
5. Legislative Calendar: Howard Baker will try to move the
Duberstein
Clark nomination through despite a resolution offered by
Sen. Bennett Johnston which could delay the vote. The
Senate Finance Committee will attempt a mark-up on Sen.
Dole's deficit reduction program; a mark-up will also be
held today on our Legal Services nominees if we can muster
a quorum. In the House, the Rules Committee will discuss
the tax package reported by Ways and Means.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(11/17/83)
ACTION
ITEM
Today's Schedule: A photo-op will be held during swearing
Speakes
1.
in of new CFTC Chairman. Also, wire photos will be taken
during meeting with head of Catholic Bishops Conference.
2. CCHR: Today's meeting with the President at 2:00 will
Fuller
discuss The Family.
3. Enterprise Zones: Regan, Pierce, and Baldridge will all
Verstandig
testify at today's hearing, which is scheduled for 10:00.
Fuller
A letter from the President will be prepared which can be
read at the hearing.
4.
Debt Limit: An increase passed the Senate this morning
Duberstein
which would last until mid February. We expect that a
compromise will be worked out with the House-passed ver-
sion before Congress adjourns tomorrow.
IMF-Housing Legislation: This will be attached to the
Duberstein
5.
Supplemental conference report which will be taken up this
morning in the Senate. Guidance is that we strongly favor
addition of the IMF measure.
6.
Legal Services: We will attempt to get a quorum again
Duberstein
today in order to confirm our nominees.
7. Tuition Tax Credits: As follow-up to yesterday's unsuc-
Whittlesey
cessful vote, we should plan to bring the coalition back
to the WH to plan for another try next year.
8. FY85 Budget: Guidance is that the departments and agen-
Speakes
cies are working on further spending cuts in their budget
Wright
submissions. Passbacks for small agencies are underway,
and those for large agencies will begin next week.
9. Arms Control: NSC is working, in coordination with our
McFarlane
allies, on contingent statements in case the Soviets walk
out of the talks today in Geneva.
10.
Reconciliation Package: This will likely be taken up by
Wright
the Senate today after a vote on the Supplemental.
Duberstein
11. Saturday Radio Speech: In all likelihood, Judge Clark
Gergen
will be confirmed tomorrow as Secretary of Interior. Thus,
we can proceed with the speech prepared by the President on
Jim Watt.
Dairy Legislation: Guidance on conference report is that
Duberstein
12.
we continue to be opposed. This position has already been
Speakes
conveyed by Legislative Affairs. Our opposition is due to
both cost and policy objections regarding paying dairy
farmers not to produce.
- 2 -
13. Space Launch Vehicles: The President has decided that
Fuller
DOT should have lead agency responsibility for this issue.
14. Surgeon General: A report will be released today which links
smoking to heart disease.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (11/18/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. Today's Schedule: A WH photo will be taken with leaders
Speakes
of NAAG.
2. Saturday Radio Speech: A draft discussing Jim Watt's
Gergen
achievements at Interior has gone in to the President.
This topic is contingent on Judge Clark being confirmed today
by the Senate.
3. Legislative Calendar: A debt limit extension which will
Duberstein
last until mid April passed the Senate and will be taken
up today in the House. Revenue sharing, reconciliation,
State Department authorization, and Judge Clark's nomina-
tion will all be voted on today. The Defense Appropriations
conference report will also be voted on today (the compromise
includes money for covert activities in Central America, but
does not include funds for binary weapons). A close vote is
expected in the House today on the IMF conference report.
4. Baby Doe Case: Question of whether to appeal the district Fielding
judge's ruling rests with the Justice Department.
5. Natural Gas: A compromise deregulation bill was supposed- Fuller
ly worked out late last night, and is being reviewed care- Duberstein
fully by DOE.
6. Enterprise Zones: Yesterday's testimony by three Cabinet
Duberstein
officers had the desired effect in demonstrating the seri-
Verstandig
ousness of the President's commitment. After the hearing,
twenty additional co-sponsors signed the House legislation.
7. "The Day After": Secretary Shultz will be interviewed
Gergen
after this film, and a panel discussion will follow the
interview. Op-ed pieces have been prepared for distribu-
tion following the film. It was emphasized that we should
not attack the network for showing the film, nor should we
attack the film itself. We agree with the premise that nu-
clear war is horrible; the key question for debate is how
to prevent it. Guidance regarding a particular news report
is that the President has seen the film, but did not suggest
that changes be made in it.
8. Veterans Jobs Bill: Although Sen. Simpson has requested
Duberstein
a signing ceremony for this legislation, it is not con-
Whittlesey
sidered advisable to hold such an event here at the WH.
Alternative signing events can be explored.
9. Revenue Sharing: A signing ceremony will probably be
Duberstein
scheduled for this bill.
10. Dairy Legislation: It was noted that this bill includes
Duberstein
a tobacco provision, along with other provisions of impor-
tance to particular states. After Congress adjourns, a
meeting will be held to allow legislators to give their
views before the President makes a decision on whether to
sign this bill.
11. Grove City/Title IX: A resolution was passed by the House,
414-8, opposing our "program specific" interpretation of
Title IX.
SENIOR STA F MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(11/21/83)
ACTION
ITEM
1. Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during meetings Speakes
with Nimeiri and K prianou, and also during presentation of
Thanksgiving turkey.
2. "The Day After": It was felt that Administration officials
who appeared following the film did a good job of properly
framing the issue.
3. Legislative Activities: The President will be asked to
Duberstein
make several phone calls to legislators. Also, a meeting
may be set up to allow key members of Congress to present
their views on the dairy bill prior to the President's
decision.
4. Assassination of Naval Attache: It was noted that the
McFarlane
body of Captain Tsantes will be buried in Arlington
Cemetery this Wednesday. Representatives from the armed
forces and the State Department will be present.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(11/22/83)
ACTION
ITEM
1. Today's Schedule: McFarlane will brief the President
McFarlane
today at 9:15, and will bring the Turkish Foreign Minister
Speakes
for a short visit with the President. Photo ops will be
held during meetings with President Hertzog and Cardinal
Casaroli. Also, wire photos will be taken during meeting
with Brooke Knapp.
2. Legislative Activity: Decision will be made regarding
Duberstein
bills for which we will schedule signing ceremonies. At
this point very few bills have been received at the WH.
Also, the President will convey thanks to Senators Stevens
and Wallop for their help on covert aid in the conference
committee.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(11/28/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. Today's Schedule: Photo opportunities will be held during Speakes
meeting with Prime Minister Shamir and signing of Decade
of Disabled Persons proclamation.
2. Cabinet Activity: On Wednesday CCEA will meet to discuss Fuller
Budget Reform options. On Thursday, the Cabinet will meet
to discuss the proposal for a manned space station, though
any decision on this issue will be made as part of the
budget process.
3. El Salvador: NSC has recommended that we consider vetoing McFarlane
legislation that would require certification of El Salva-
Fielding
dor every six months. The question of whether we can
"pocket veto" such bills will also be explored.
4. Revenue Sharing: A signing ceremony for this legislation Duberstein
has been scheduled for Wednesday.
Verstandig
5. Grove City/Title IX: Oral arguments in this case are set Speakes
for tomorrow. Questions should be referred to Justice.
6. Dairy Bill: A legislative strategy meeting will be held
Darman
within the next few days to assess the possibility of a
veto override, and also to plan for a meeting with legisla-
tors supporting the bill.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(12/02/83)
ACTION
ITEM
1. Today's Schedule: The television show with "Close Up"
Speakes
students will be covered by the press. Also, a NSPG
meeting will convene at 10:30 in the Oval Office.
2. Saturday Radio Speech: A draft on family issues has gone
Gergen
in to the President.
3. Unemployment: Figures will be released today which
Gergen
indicate that unemployment continues to drop.
4. Civil Rights Commission: It was emphasized that no agree- Speakes
ments were reached with the Hill regarding the President's
appointments to. the reconstituted commission.
5. Defense Budget: Guidance regarding today's stories is
Speakes
that we will not comment until the President's budget has
been released.
6. Immigration: The Press Office has indicated that we wel-
come the Speaker's reversal of position on this legislation.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(12/07/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. Today's Schedule: The state visit of the King of Nepal
Speakes
will be covered by the press.
2. Textiles: Thurmond, Helms, Broyhill, and Campbell will
Svahn
meet with the President early next week regarding problems
Oglesby
experienced by the domestic textile industry. OPD will
Fuller
prepare a paper regarding the current state of the
industry. The meeting will primarily be a listening
session.
3. Tuition Tax Credits: In the President's meeting this
Whittlesey
afternoon with the coalition, we will stress that they
Oglesby
will have to play the major role in reviving the issue.
4. King Juan Carlos: During the King's present visit it is
Speakes
important that we neither say nor imply that major policy
questions are being discussed.
5. Budget: It was noted that a meeting is set for Friday to
Fuller
discuss the defense budget for FY85.
Darman
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(12/08/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. START Talks: Ambassador Rowny has issued a press state-
Speakes
ment calling on the Soviets to resume negotiations, and
expressing our hope that they will do so.
2. Indianapolis Trip: It was noted that Secretary Bell is
Speakes
having some success in keeping the National Forum on Ex-
cellence in Education from turning into a debate on the
federal education budget. Any press comments on today's
trip should follow the same strategy.
3. Space Shuttle: A Presidential statement and message for
Gergen
the astronauts will be prepared for issuance after the
shuttle landing today.
4. Poland: A short statement will be released today regard-
McFarlane
ding Lech Walesa's request that U.S. sanctions be lifted.
While not promising to do so, our statement is supportive
of Walesa and indicates we will consider his request.
5. Saturday Radio Speech: A new topic is being prepared by
Gergen
NSC in lieu of the previously planned speech on religious
McFarlane
freedom.
6. EPA: According to the Washington Times, an EPA official
Fielding
notified environmental groups prior to the issuance of
particular regulations, thus allowing those groups to file
in federal court ahead of an opposing industry group.
Fielding will check into the facts on this matter.
7. Budget: It was noted that Secretary Regan stated publicly
that he feels the President should re-submit his 1984 budget
cuts. It was reiterated that we must follow a "no comment"
policy regarding all budget stories.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(12/12/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. Today's Schedule: The President will be updated on the
McFarlane
situation in Kuwait before this morning's interview with
the New York Daily News.
2.
Textiles: A meeting is scheduled for today at 11:00 to
Fuller
discuss the current situation regarding textile imports,
Svahn
and to plan for tomorrow's meeting between the President
and Strom Thurmond.
3. Budget: Sen. Dole's hearings on the deficit will begin
Oglesby
today with testimony from leading economists. It was
mentioned that Dole had never planned to call Administra-
tion officials as witnesses.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(12/20/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. Today's Schedule: There will be no photo op today.
2. Beirut: Guidance regarding the House subcommittee report
Speakes
is that DOD has its own study underway and we would not
Gergen
want to prejudge results of that report by commenting.
3. Economic Figures: Personal income figures will be re-
Feldstein
leased at 8:30 and housing starts at 9:30 today. Both
figures are expected to be good.
4. Foreign Assistance: NSC will provide press conference
McFarlane
guidance regarding reduction in AID funds for Zimbabwe.
5. Nebraska Christian School Case: Our position remains one
Gergen
of non-intervention in this case. If the President is
Speakes
asked about this at the press conference he will express
sympathy and the hope that matters can be resolved in
order that those who have been jailed can spend Christmas
with their families. The President will not meet with
representatives of the school.
6. Student Loan Funds: OMB will forward guidance regarding
Wright
a news article on regulations dealing with the issuance of
tax exempt bonds for student loans.
7. Budget: Overall guidance continues to be "no comment"
Speakes
regarding budget stories. On the subject of deficits, we
can confirm our concern, and state that the President's
budget will include a deficit reduction package. Such a
package will be evenhanded between spending cuts and
revenue increases, and will show a declining deficit path
in the out years.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS
(12/21/83)
ITEM
ACTION
1. Today's Schedule: Rumsfeld will meet briefly with the
McFarlane
President at 9:20. Ambassador Stone will also be in for
Sims
a brief meeting and photo op at 9:40. A presidential
statement supporting Stone's efforts will be released
afterward. Regarding Kirkpatrick's meeting with the
President today, guidance for now is that she reports
directly to the President on a periodic basis.
2. Lebanon: The latest series of bombings will be condemned McFarlane
today. Regarding the investigation of the October bomb-
Sims
ing of Marine headquarters, Secretary Weinberger has
indicated that the Pentagon will declassify and release
its report by next week; we will not comment until after
the President has received the report.
3. Nicaragua: Regarding speculation that the Central
Sims
America Commission will recommend a cutoff in U.S. aid
to Nicaragua, guidance is that we will not comment until
the report has been received.
4. Saturday Radio Talk: A draft talk for Christmas has been
Gergen
circulated; the topic is peace.
5. Deficit: A group of Democrats has reportedly threatened
Fitzwater
to withhold support for increasing the debt ceiling unless
the President lays out a deficit reduction plan. Guidance
is that the President will propose such a plan and we hope
the Democrats will support it.
6. Wick Comments re Thatcher: We should decline comment on
Fitzwater
recent partisan criticism of Wick's remarks.
7. Budget Planning Assumptions: These figures will be re-
Wright
leased today. Guidance has been forwarded to the Press
Fitzwater
Office.
8. Task Force on Food Assistance: This group's report will
Jenkins
be issued on January 10. A small group will meet to
Gergen
discuss how it should be handled.
9. Senior Staff: It was noted that the next senior staff
meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 3.