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Sculimbrene Docs [1]
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Michelle Peterson's Files
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FOIA Number: 2014-0469-F
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the William J. Clinton
Presidential Library Staff.
Collection/Record Group:
Clinton Presidential Records
Subgroup/Office of Origin:
Counsel Office
Series/Staff Member:
Shelli Peterson
Subseries:
OA/ID Number:
16434
FolderID:
Folder Title:
Sculimbrene Docs [1]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
S
115
2
9
1
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001. resume
[Personally Identifiable Information] [partial] (1 page)
00/00/0000
b(6)
002. memo
Heyward Bannister to Jesse Brown re: Inspector General (Non-
06/18/1996
b(6)
selection) (4 pages)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Counsel Office
Shelli Peterson
OA/Box Number: 16434
FOLDER TITLE:
Sculimbrene Docs [1]
2014-0469-F
jm 1545
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
PI National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office ((a)(2) of the PRA
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRAJ
an agency ((b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRAJ
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
This is what I believe to be
the press packet as It were out on
7/25/96. With the exception of the
Gloric Livingstore statement (red flag),
everything in this packet is cortained somewhere
w/in the production. -- So-e
in have than one place.
STATEMENT
Mark Fabiani
Special Associate Counsel to the President
July 25, 1996
Today Representative William Clinger, hiding behind the
legal fig leaf of the Speech or Debate Clause, took the
extraordinary step of divulging on the House floor highly
confidential and completely false information from an FBI
background investigation.
Congressman Clinger has failed utterly to prove that the
White House ever improperly released any private information from
FBI files. Thus, today's astonishing speech by Mr. Clinger
represents the first and only disclosure of confidential FBI
background information during this entire matter.
What is worse, Congressman Clinger divulged confidential
information that is clearly false and that originates from a
questionable source. Bernard Nussbaum has said that the alleged
conversation between Mr. Nussbaum and FBI Agent Dennis
Sculimbrene never took place. Mrs. Livingstone has said that she
does not know the First Lady and has never even met or spoken
with Mrs. Clinton. And the First Lady has said that she does not
know Mrs. Livingstone.
1
In addition, Mr. Clinger surely knows that, according to a
published report, an FBI agent informed his superiors that Agent
Sculimbrene harbored "very bitter political feelings against the
White House." This same FBI agent also charged Agent Sculimbrene
with "irrational" behavior. (Washington Post, June 28, 1996.)
Yet other published reports indicate that Agent Sculimbrene is
involved in a continuing dispute with the FBI regarding his work
assignments. And, in recent weeks another FBI agent who had been
assigned to the White House and worked with Agent Sculimbrene
published a book containing wild rumors and rank innuendo; that
book was thoroughly and completely discredited.
Nonetheless, Representative Clinger took to the House floor
and divulged false information from a confidential FBI report in
a desperate attempt to grab attention for his faltering
"investigation." Mr. Clinger's speech today will be seen by most
Americans as a reckless, partisan act.
2
FACT SHEET
Sculimbrene's allegations have been disputed by all parties:
Mrs. Livingstone states: "I do not know Hillary Rodham Clinton, I have
never met Mrs. Clinton, and I have never spoken with Mrs. Clinton. We are
not, and never have been, personal friends." [Statement of Mrs. Gloria
Livingstone, 7/25/96]
Mr. Nussbaum states: "I never told FBI Agent Sculimbrene, or anyone else,
that the First Lady recommended Craig Livingstone for his position in the
White House or that the First Lady knew Livingstone's mother." [Statement of
Mr. Bernard Nussbaum, 7/25/96]
Mrs. Clinton has stated: "I did not know his mother. I did not know him.
I did not have anything to do with his being hired." [First Lady Hillary
Rodham Clinton's statement in Helsinki, Finland on 7/10/96]
Mr. Bill Kennedy has stated: "I have never had any discussion with Mrs.
Clinton about Mr. Livingstone. No one else ever told me that Mrs. Clinton
had any interest whatsoever in Mr. Livingstone or his position." [Statement of
William H. Kennedy, 6/29/96]
Mr. Craig Livingstone has stated: "I've asked my mother and she, for the
record, says that she has never met Mrs. Clinton." [Livingstone testimony
before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 6/28/96]
Dennis Sculimbrene has offered differing accounts of the story involving Mrs. Clinton
and Mrs. Livingstone:
"According to Mr. Sculimbrene, both Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Livingstone told
him that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew Mrs. Clinton, which seemed to
explain his standing. However, Mr. Sculimbrene said he has no independent
knowledge of whether the two women actually knew one another and
suggested that Mr. Livingstone may have made it up in an attempt to inflate
his status or protect his job." [Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96]
Q: Now, you said Craig Livingstone had this job because who wanted him to
have the job?
Sculimbrene: Mrs. Clinton is apparently a friend of Craig's mother.
Q: Mrs. Clinton is a friend of Craig's mother?
Sculimbrene: Yes. And that is why Bill Kennedy told me he was stuck with
Craig.
Q: Let me ask you, though, do you have any--do you remember any
conversations where you were told that Mr. Livingstone got that job because
he was connected with Mrs. Clinton?
Sculimbrene: Yes. Kennedy told me that.
[Sculimbrene Interview before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 6/19/96]
Sculimbrene's FBI interview report states that Mr. Bernard Nussbaum was the
individual who informed him (Sculimbrene) that Mr. Livingstone received his
job because of a pre-existing relationship between Mrs. Livingstone and Mrs.
Clinton.
According to a news account, FBI agent David Bowie, who worked with
Sculimbrene, wrote in an August, 1995 memo that Sculimbrene had "very bitter
political feelings against the White House." Bowie further accused Sculimbrene of
"irrational" behavior. [The Washington Post, 6/28/96]
Sculimbrene is involved in an employment dispute with the FBI, alleging he was
discriminated against because of his handicap. (Sculimbrene suffered a severe head
injury after being hit by a propeller.) Sculimbrene has been quoted by another FBI
agent as saying, "he could get away with anything" because he was disabled. [The
Washington Post, 6/29/96]
In a news account, Sculimbrene stated the FBI was seeking retribution for his
testimony in the Dale trial. (Sculimbrene testified on behalf of Billy Ray Dale at
Dale's trial for embezzlement in November of 1995.) [Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96]
Numerous issues regarding the propriety of the actions of other FBI agents assigned
to the Clinton White House have arisen over the last few years. "
the FBI post at
the White House has also been the subject of considerable controversy, particularly
during the Clinton administration." [The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
"One of the agents who helped with White House background checks in 1994
and 1995, Halbert Gary Harlow, was charged and eventually convicted last
year of falsifying at least 50 interviews that he claimed to have conducted."
[The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
Former FBI agent Gary Aldrich published a book on the Clinton White House
which featured wild, unsubstantiated rumors. The book was widely criticized
for making public raw FBI data. Aldrich "published his account without
completing a required FBI review process." [The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 25, 1996
BY TELECOPY
Louis J. Freeh
Director
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Dear Director Freeh:
As you may know, Congressman Clinger today divulged, on
the House floor, an interview report from a confidential FBI
background investigation that has been declared to be false by
the person who was interviewed. I am writing to you to ask how
we can work together to ensure continued public confidence in the
accuracy of FBI investigations.
According to Mr. Clinger's statement today, the
background investigation file on Mr. Craig Livingstone includes a
report by Agent Dennis Sculimbrene on a conversation he says he
had with White House Counsel Bernard Nussbaum concerning Mr.
Livingstone's hiring. But, according to a statement issued by
Mr. Nussbaum today, that conversation never took place.
This Administration and the American people have
enormous confidence in the FBI, for good reason. And, the role
that the agency plays in conducting background investigations and
helping to ensure the suitability of appointees for their posts
cannot be overstated. The President, you and the American people
have a large stake indeed in the fairness and accuracy of this
process.
That is why we are troubled, as we know you must be, by
the implication that an FBI background investigation might
include a false report. This matter is especially worrisome
coming as it does on the heels of published reports of the
conviction of one of the agents who did background checks at the
White House on charges of falsifying at least 50 interviews that
he claimed to have conducted.
It is equally troubling that a Member of Congress can
publicly reveal confidential FBI information, whether for
partisan purposes or otherwise. It should not escape notice that
this is done at a time when Members of Congress have expressed
worry that employees of the executive branch might have sought
out confidential FBI information about certain individuals and
planned to somehow use it publicly. While that charge has never
been established against anyone in the executive branch, we now
witness the same objectionable behavior by the very people who
professed to be the guardians of privacy.
It is important that we take steps to ensure continuing
confidence in the confidentiality and the integrity of the FBI
clearance process. I look forward to your suggestions as to how
we can work with you to that end.
Best regards,
Sincerely,
Jane Quinn to the Qui President
Attachment
July 25, 1996
Contact:
Jim Fitzpatrick
202-942-5878
STATEMENT OF BERNARD NUSSBAUM
I never told FBI Agent Sculimbrene, or anyone
else, that the First Lady recommended Craig Livingstone
for his position in the White House or that the First
Lady knew Livingstone's mother. I never knew or heard
any such things. In fact, I understand that the First
Lady and Livingstone's mother don't know each other. I
am mystified and outraged that someone would attribute
to me something I never said.
NOT in
production
STATEMENT OF GLORIA LIVINGSTONE
I do not know Hillary Rodham clinton, I have never met
Mrs. Clinton, and I have never spoken with Mrs. Clinton. We are
not, and never have been, personal friends.
I believe the only occasion I was in the same room as
Mrs. Clinton was shortly before Christmas last year, when I had
the privilege of helping to decorate the White House Christmas
tree. At one point, Mrs. Clinton entered the room and thanked us
as a group for our efforts.
July 25, 1996
FIRST LADY HILLARY CLINTON Q AND A'S IN BUCHAREST, ROMANIA
MONDAY, JULY 1, 1996
Q from AP: Before we get too far along with our wonderful
Romanian visit, I want to clear up just on thing hanging over
Washington. Did you or to your knowledge, did Vince Foster have
anything to do with the hiring of Craig Livingstone?
A from HRC: I don't know anything about it, I know I didn't.
0 from AP: Do you have any reason to believe that Vince Foster
did?
A from HRC: I have no reason to believe that.
0 from AP: Is there any connection between your mother and Craig
Livingstone's mother. Which is something the FBI agent is
claiming.
A from HRC: The "ex FBI Agent"? No there is no connection. I
do believe, if I ever meet the woman I'm going to say "Mrs.
Livingstone I presume."
FIRST LADY DISCUSSION WITH TRAVELING PRESS
HELSINKI, FINLAND
JULY 10, 1996
0 from ABC: I need to follow-up on one of Ron's questions. When
did you first meet Craig Livingstone? When did you become aware
that you knew him?
A from HRC: Gee, I don't have any idea. I don't recall meeting
him for the first couple of years we were in the White House. I
just don't know him. I have met him since then, but my best
memory is sometime within the last year is the first time I ever
put a face and a name together.
Q from AP: I really don't want to belabor this, but díd I
understand you on the Livingstone question, that you don't really
have a memory of knowing him until this all happened?
A from HRC: Ron, I did not know his mother. I did not know him.
I did not have anything to do with his being hired. And, I do
not remember even meeting him until sometime in the last year.
So, it does not mean I did not run into him. It does not mean
that I did not shake his hand in a receiving line. All that
could have happened. But, in terms of any connection with this
young man or any kind of relationship with him, there was none.
Statement of William H. Kennedy
Gary Aldrich's account of a conversation with me about
Craig Livingstone's suitability for the job of Director of
Personnel Security is pure fiction. I never told Aldrich that
Mrs. Clinton wanted Mr. Livingstone 10 that post. 1 have never
had any discussion with Mrs. Clinton about Craig Livingstone. No
one else ever told me that Mrs. Clinton had any interest
whatsoever in Mr. Livingstone or his position.
See
117
June 29, 1996
Original
1
RPTS STRICKLAND
2
DCMN GALLACHER
3
4
COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT REFORM AND OVERSIGHT
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES See
5
363-65
6
WASHINGTON, D.C.
7
8
X
9
:
10
In the matter of:
:
:
11
WHITE HOUSE TRAVEL
:
DEPOSITION OF
:
WILLIAM H. KENNEDY, III
12
:
X
13
14
15
Tuesday, June 18, 1996
16
17
Washington, D.C.
18
19
20
The deposition in the above matter was held in Room 2203,
21
Rayburn House Office Building, commencing at 9:35 a.m.
22
23
24
25
4
1
THEREUPON,
2
WILLIAM H. KENNEDY, III,
3
a witness, was called for examination by counsel, and after
4
having been first duly sworn, was examined and testified as
5
follows:
6
EXAMINATION BY MS. COMSTOCK:
7
Q
Mr. Kennedy, you joined the White House Counsel's
8
Office in March of '93; is that correct?
9
A
No, that's not correct. February of '93.
10
0
Okay. Was it late February?
11
A
Nope. First week of February.
12
I
Okay. And do you know who was involved in your
13
hiring?
14
A
With specificity, no.
15
0
Did the First Lady have any involvement in your
16
hiring?
17
A
She did.
18
Q
Do you know if the First Lady was involved in hiring
19
Mr. Nussbaum at all?
20
A
I can't answer that.
21
Q
Do you know if the First Lady was involved in hiring
22
Mr. Foster at all?
23
A
I presume she was. I don't know that directly.
24
Q
Do you know if the First Lady was involved at all
25
with the hiring of Craig Livingston in your office?
5
1
A
I don't believe she was. I do not know one way or
2
the other. I don't believe SO.
3
0
Do you recall ever saying to anyone that the First
4
Lady wanted to have Craig Livingston in the position at the
5
Security Office at the White House?
6
A
Me ever saying that?
7
Q
Yes.
8
A
I never said that.
9
Q
Do you recall when you got your security clearance
10
when you were at the White House?
11
A
Huh-uh. No.
12
Q
Do you know who adjudicated your file?
13
A
I do not.
14
0
Do you know if there were any tax problems that came
15
to anyone's attention in your file when you first came to the
16
White House in 1993?
17
A
I decline to talk about my file. I've never seen
18
it.
I don't know what's in it.
19
I
Did there come a time when you had some nanny tax
20
problems?
21
A
There were allegations of those problems, yes.
22
Q
And had you informed anyone in the counsel's office
23
about those tax problems?
24
A I did.
25
Q
And who did you inform?
THE PAGINATION OF THIS DOCUMENT IS UNOFFICIAL
JUNE 28, 1996 SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE TRANSCRIPT
WITNESSES: LIVINGSTONE, WETZL
LEAHY: Someone who's going to go into this administration?
LIVINGSTONE: Right. But I wanted to explain it rather than just
say only within pursuance of my duties so you'd understand an example.
LEAHY: I understand. So in other words, if the administration
as it has has appointed people from past administrations
LIVINGSTONE: Yes, sir.
LEAHY:
then they would ask for the file.
LIVINGSTONE: Yes, sir.
LEAHY: OK. I've also read in the press allegations that come
from unspecified sources that your mother is a close friend of the
first lady. Is she?
LIVINGSTONE: No, sir.
LEAHY: And you have no idea who those sources are that tell
these things?
LIVINGSTONE: No, sir. I've asked my mother and she, for the
record, says that she has never met Mrs. Clinton.
LEAHY: Well, we have the other night I was at an event here
on the Hill, and one of the key chairman here was not there at the
moment, and there was also a fire going on down at the Treasury
building. We assumed that he was immediately calling a hearing to
disclose how Mrs. Clinton started the fire at the Treasury building.
We seem to have these allegations go out immediately.
LIVINGSTONE: I have no knowledge of that.
(LAUGHTER)
LEAHY: You had nothing to do with the fire. I mean, we might as
well because by about tomorrow, there'l 11 probably be an article in
the press saying that the suggestion and the statement was left
unanswered whether Mr. Livingstone started the fire at the Treasury
36
THE PAGINATION OF THIS DOCUMENT IS UNOFFICIAL
COMPLETE
JUNE 26, 1996 CLINGER COMMITTEE TRANSCRIPT
PARTIAL TRANSCRIPT
KENNEDY, LIVINGSTONE, MARCECA, NUSSBAUM, WETZL
NUSSBAUM: I worked with Mrs. Clinton on the impeachment inquiry.
And I
HORN: Right.
NUSSBAUM: And I don't think we were close personal friends with
her or the president, but I did know them over the years, yes.
HORN: Well, what I'm curious now is, Mr. Marceca and Mr.
Livingstone, did Vice President Gore or Mrs. Clinton recommend you for
the position you held, Mr. Livingstone, to your knowledge?
LIVINGSTONE: I have no knowledge of that.
HORN: You have no knowledge of that. Mr. Marceca?
Do you have any awareness of either Mrs. Clinton
MARCECA: I highly doubt it.
HORN:
Vice President Gore. OK, how about Mr. Carville, did
he recommend either one of you for a position? Did you get to know
him, Mr. Livingstone, in the campaign?
LIVINGSTONE: I don't believe Mr. Carville at that time knew who
I was.
See
HORN: OK. How about you, Mr. Marceca?
95-97
MARCECA: I don't believe he had any involvement in my getting
the detail at all.
HORN: OK, let me put to each one of you, have you been offered a
position in the public or private sector by anyone in the White House
who's either an agent, a friend, or a relative of the president, the
vice president or any member of the Executive Branch to say as little
as you possibly can in this hearing or related hearings? Has anyone
offered you that position in the private sector or the public sector
if, in brief. you keep quiet?
114
THE PAGINATION OF THIS COMPLETE DOCUMENT IS UNOFFICIAL
JUNE 26, 1996 CLINGER COMMITTEE TRANSCRIPT
PARTIAL TRANSCRIPT
KENNEDY, LIVINGSTONE, MARCECA, NUSSBAUM, WETZL
LIVINGSTONE: At the inaugural, I...
MICA: Security, OK, for the inaugural committee.
LIVINGSTONE: Yes, sir.
MICA: And did you feel to did a pretty good job?
LIVINGSTONE: Yes, I do. I got a very nice letter from the
director of the Secret Service and a plaque from the Secret Service.
MICA: Was the first lady or the president aware of your service?
LIVINGSTONE: I don't have any knowledge to that effect.
MICA: Does anyone in your family have any relationship with the
first family?
II
LIVINGSTONE: Absolutely not.
MICA: Did you report to Mr. Kennedy on the first day when you
came into the White House? When you said he hired you? Who did you
report to and talk to
LIVINGSTONE: I believe I testified earlier that I worked on
advance prior to going on the payroll.
MICA: I know but the first day at the White House who did you
report to? Went you went on the payroll, who's the first one you
talked to?
LIVINGSTONE: I believe Miss Cheryl Mills, counsel's office.
MICA: Were you aware at any time of problems in the White House
relating to security because you immediately got into the security
business, were you aware of any leaks or problems with security at the
White House?
LIVINGSTONE: Well, as I testified earlier. my job, sir, as I
understood it, was largely administrative at the White House.
134
Ex-FBI Agent: First Lady
Wanted Livingstone on Staff
FILLA Proce A0
and The Inquiry La alm directed at
Ndrich received meetings with
Scufmbrenc's Degation that his FTII
Remedy and whb Late Fibire House
Angeles poboe officer Stecey C Room
supervisors realthied agatest hbn for
deputy coursel Texcem Faster on the
and the National Ride Atsoctation's
lestifying as a defense witness in the
'It's (1 Done Deal,' Counsel Allegedly Said
accurity problems. and aid be lold
executive rice president, Wayne
trul of Gred White House travel check
Forter the FBI had found character
LiPerre Jr. Pabland accid publication
Billy R Data Date was acquitied of
questions smoog staff members X
of the Aktrich book & a political act
emberdement charges,
B, George Lardnes Jr.
point bat It doesn't maller. It's
the highest levels' of the Thise
with sero creditility."
Scolembrene has said be DOW re-
House.
and Prerre Thomas
done deal. Hillary wants hbn.
Earber this month, Aktrich wrote a
ports to the FBI offices in Tysons
The embalited Livingatoric an.
At one potor Aktrich wrote, be and
-
abort article for the Wall Street your
Corner, where be bas "Do work. no
Livingstone discussed the serious 4
nounced hb resignation Wednesday
mls editoral page. It alleged that
^ former PBI agent assigned to
assignments." In in August 1995
st a House heartre after a drumfore
permanent White House employees
curity problems, including stail rocm-
щетю, David Bowie. snother FEA
the White House says he was told
ol articism over his office's Improper
bere who should have been ared be
corpected of disloyalty were in for
that Cralg Livingstone was named
agent who worked on the Date as
collection of reneitive PBI back-
"special" attention, Fallary Chotom
cruse or tbetr backgrounds and the
toki FIR bigher that Sentimbrene
bead of personnel security despite a
ground reports on handreds of Rc
Lock of cooperation from other White
style'-och - DCW background to
has "rery bitter policial feelings
questionable background because
House staff members to ereo submit.
publicans from past administrations
restigations before they were due.
- the White Home" and ac.
Hillury wants him."
One of the biggest mysteries lets pt
As FBI agent be worked with M
tipg to FBI laterviews. Uringstone,
cased bing of "tchtional" belivior
Wnling in 1 new book. Unliarited
the bearing was the question of who
Dennis Scufmbrene, has illeged that
wrote Aldrich, aid Kennedy under.
BY his book, Adriab said the new
Access FBI Agent Inside the
Phile House political operatives
stood the problems but refused to
had htred Livingrtone a longtime po-
JUNI 18. 1996
TWE WASHINGTON POST
Claston White House used temporary
deal with them
Clinton White House," the agent,
Filkcal advance man with no back.
purced him for Information COTY
passes for many mooths to gel
Cary Aldrich, said then-essociate
ground B security tssues
tabled to confidential FBI background
The two roeo decided 10 go 10
around the need to provide the Se
White House counsel William FL Keo-
Aktrich was assigned to the White
files to an effort to root out career
bigher-ups about the security prob-
cret Service with FTU background to
nedy IU (old bim in early 1993 that
House to condect background toresti-
employees and replace them with
leon, according to Aktrich lle wrote
parts for permanent passes,
first lady Hilliry Rodhiro Clinton
gations for five years antil be retired
Clintri supporters.
that be assumed they would discuss h
The White House commers office
wanted Livingstone tn the job.
in June 1995. Angry to tops and laced
Those charges have led to an to
with theo-White Rouse counsed Ber.
tightened security procedures to ear.
Reanedy. Aldrich wrote. asked
with undocumented allegations, his
terml FBI Investigation. The probe b
and Nussbarum. "Cratg looked at me
ty 1994 2 review concluded that
FINAL
hiro what the FBI thought of Living
book was published by a conservative
focused 8 Aktrich's contentions that
The I didn't have a brain Housbeurol
more than 100 employees were at
stooe 23 a replacement for a longtime
bouse, Regnery Publishing Co. It was
be told his supervisor, James Bourke,
It's Det Number we gotta talk to.
lowed to work for months without
reterm and in particular what the
invollately desounced by the Walter
that the security system at the White
Well be taking to Hiltary.
rootine background investigations
FBI would think if there were charso
House
House had been relaxed at those by-
Livingstone Dever mentioned the
White Clouse officials acknowledged
"Oo Its Lace, this to trash for right-
al to the Clintons could crade back-
meeting with Hilary Clinton rgain.
let lesses In hh background"
then that some White House staffen
ground checks. If Bourke was tware
and # never came off Aldricb wrole
*1 responded gingerly. saying It
wing crsh," said White House spokes
were found to have troablesome per-
was 2 post that should be filled with
mac Mark Fabtant. Regnery, be said,
of such matters, the FBI Inspections
sonal problems when the Idas-de
Stop/ writers Suna Schenid and
someone equeaky clean, before Keo-
bas published books by former Los
will thy to determine what If any-
byed investigations were finally tom-
5 m McGer and researcher Nothan
mody are me oft 1 goess I ICC your
See FILER, A7, CoL 1
thing. be did about them, sources
pleted
Adve contributed to this report
Page 3
5TH STORY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright 1996 The Washington Post
The Washington Post
June 29, 1996, Saturday, Final Edition
SECTION: A SECTION; Pg. A14
LENGTH: 857 words
HEADLINE: Aldrich Despised Clintons, Colleagues Say; Former FBI Agent at White
House Was 'Cozy With Bush Staff'
BYLINE: Serge F. Kovaleski; Pierre Thomas, Washington Post Staff Writers
BODY:
To a number of his peers, was a competent FBI agent with strong conservative
convictions who felt a kinship with the Bush administration and was openly
disgusted when Bill Clinton captured the Oval Office.
"He was very cozy with most of the Bush staff, said an FBI agent who knows
Aldrich and spoke on the condition of anonymity. There is "no doubt he has a
phenomenal bias" against the Clintons.
"He was almost personally offended that the Clintons had won, and made no
secret of that, the agent said. After Clinton was elected president, the agent
said, Aldrich remarked, "I've never seen so many ponytailed, 50-year-old men in
my life. "
Aldrich, a 26-year veteran of the FBI, retired last year because, he has
suggested, his experience in the Clinton White House soured him on the bureau.
He had spent the last five years of his career as one of two FBI agents assigned
to the White House, where he was responsible for conducting background
investigations on White House personnel.
In his controversial new book, "Unlimited Access: an FBI Agent Inside the
Clinton White House," Aldrich described his post as an elite assignment that
afforded him the unique opportunity to look out the window and see "a king or a
queen visiting the president "
But the FBI post at the White House has also been the subject of considerable
controversy, particularly during the Clinton administration. One of the agents
who helped with White House background checks in 1994 and 1995, Halbert Gary
Harlow, was charged and eventually convicted last year of falsifying at least 50
interviews that he claimed to have conducted.
Aldrich was assigned to full-time duty at the White House with agent Dennis
Sculimbrene, who almost lost his life in a 1995 accident, and has been quoted by
another FBI agent as saying "he could get away with anything" because he was
disabled. Sculimbrene is involved in a legal dispute with the FBI over his work
assignments. He alleges he is being discriminated against because of his
disability.
Page 4
The Washington Post. June 29, 1996
The FBI response to the allegations raised in Aldrich's book was a terse,
two-paragraph statement saying that Aldrich had published his account without
completing a required bureau review process.
As a condition of FBI employment, all employees and former employees are
required to submit for review any publications that "could have been based on
knowledge gained as a result of their employment," the FBI release said. "The
purpose of this review is to ensure the integrity of the investigative or other
official information employees learn as part of their official duties.'
Jay Stephens, Aldrich's lawyer and former Republican U.S. attorney for
Washington, said yesterday that over the last six months he and his client had
worked closely with the FBI to address any concerns the agency may have about
the manuscript.
"We substantially met all their concerns except for a couple of very limited
passages that have become moot as a result of the hearings into problems in
security clearances at the White House, Stephens said.
However, a senior bureau official disputed Stephens's account, saying that
substantial issues remained unresolved before the book's publication.
Some senior bureau officials yesterday appeared caught in the position of
trying to respond to a book with some credible allegations and other claims they
considered undocumented rumor.
"Are we outraged by this behavior?" asked one senior bureau official. "Of
course we are. But the official said that the bureau hasn't decided what to do
about the book and noted that Aldrich does have First Amendment rights.
Should it decide to take action against Aldrich for publishing before the
review process was completed, the bureau's only option is to pursue civil
litigation to control profits of the book, said one source.
Upon first receiving the book, the FBI forwarded it to its Office
Professional Responsibility as a part of routine procedure. Thus far the bureau
has not been able to secure documents to substantiate Aldrich's claims about
security procedures at the White House, sources said.
Aldrich first surfaced publicly two weeks ago, just after the controversy
erupted over the White House's improper receipt of hundreds of FBI files, when
he published an op-ed piece assailing the Clinton administration in the Wall
Street Journal. In it, he accused the White House of thwarting security and
background checks. He made no mention of the upcoming book.
The book describes the early Clinton White House as being in complete
disarray, rife with staff members who had once been drug abusers, suffering from
lax security clearance procedures and targeting employees that it wanted fired
to make room for individuals who were viewed as loyal to the Clintons. He also
claimed that the FBI ignored repeated complaints that the Clinton administration
was allowing staff members to go long periods of time without permanent White
House passes.
FBI sources said they had not yet been able to find any record of the
complaints Aldrich said he had lodged.
Page 5
The Washington Post, June 29, 1996
Staff writer Jim McGee contributed to this report.
LANGUAGE: ENGLISH
LOAD-DATE: June 29, 1996
FACT SHEET
Dennis Sculimbrene has offered differing accounts of the
story involving Mrs. Clinton and Mrs. Livingstone:
1)
"According to Mr. Sculimbrene, both Mr. Kennedy and Mr.
Livingstone told him that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew
Mrs. Clinton, which seemed to explain his standing.
However, Mr. Sculimbrene said he has no independent
knowledge of whether the two women actually knew one
another and suggested that Mr. Livingstone may have
made it up in an attempt to inflate his status or
protect his job. Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96
2)
Q:
Now, you said Craig Livingstone had this
job because who wanted wanted him to
have the job?
Sculimbrene:
Mrs. Clinton is apparently a friend of
Craig's mother.
Q:
Mrs. Clinton is a friend of Craig's
mother?
Sculimbrene:
Yes. And that is why Bill Kennedy told
me he was stuck with Craig.
Q:
Let me ask you, though, do you have any-
-do you remember any conversations where
you were told that Mr. Livingstone got
that job because he was connected with
Mrs. Clinton?
Sculimbrene:
Yes. Kennedy told me that.
Sculimbrene Interview before the Senate Judiciary
Committee, 6/19/96
3)
Sculimbrene's FBI reports state that Mr. Bernard
Nussbaum was the individual who informed him
(Sculimbrene) that Mr. Livingstone received his job
because of a pre-existing relationship between Mrs.
Livingstone and Mrs. Clinton.
Former Top FBI Agent at White House
WSJ
Raises Questions About Security Office
6/25/96
By . WALL STREET JOURNAL staff Reporter
In 1993. he thought he had a good
WASHINGTON - An FBI agent who
candidate. Jackle Dinwiddle. who worked
was. until two months ago. the top FBI
In the security office during the Carter
agent working In the White House, has
administration. However, when he
raised new questions about the White
House's personnel security office and Hs
brought the idea to then-deputy White
director, Craig Livingstone.
House counsel William Kennedy has
FBI agent Dennis Scullmbrene, who'
since resigned - be says Mr. Kennedy told
was recently transferred from the White
him that he was stuck with Mr. Living-
House to FBI's Washington field office. has
stone. Mr. Scullmbrene told Investigators
told Investigators for the Senate Judiciary
that Mr. Kennedy knew there were prob-
Committee that he raised complaints with
lems In Mr. Livingstone's own background
his superiors about the chaotic manage-
Investigation, and another person familiar
ment of the personnel security office two
with the matter confirms this Mr. Ken-
years ago and that he also had suggested
nedy and his lawyer didn't respond to.
that the office be run in & non-political
manner. But Mr. Livingstone's hold on the
requests for comment.
job was secure because. the FBI agent said
According to Mr. Scullmbrene. both
be was told. Mr. Livingstone's mother
Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Livingstone told him
knew First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton.
that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew Mrs.
A White House spokeswoman and a
Clinton. which seemed to explain his
lawyer for Mr. Livingstone both deny that
standing. However. Mr. Scullmbrene said
Mrs. Clinton knows Mr. Livingstone's
he has no Independent knowledge of
mother. Mr. Scullmbrene doesn't know
whether the two women actually knew one
why he was transferred from his post at the
another and suggested that Mr. Living-
White House. He is currently embrolled In
stone may have made It up In an attempt to
a legal dispute with the Federal Bureau of
Investigation over work assignments.
Inflate his status or protect his job. An-
During an unsworn Interview Wednes-
other person who worked with Mr. Living.
daywith the staff of the Senate Judiciary
stone confirms that Mr. Livingstone
Committee. Mr. Scullmbrene alleged that
boasted of ties between his mother and
Mrs. Clinton,
Mr. Livingstone had some problems In his
background and had said some untrue
An Absolute Fabrication'
things to the FBI when he underwent an
Mr. Cohen, Mr. Livingstone's lawyer.
Investigation for security clearance. He
called this account "an absolute fabrica.
didn't tell Investigators what the alleged
tion." White House officials said that Mr.
problems In Mr. Livingstone's background
Kennedy has denied telling Mr. Scullm-
or untrue statements were. Despite having
brene of any connection between Mrs.
no background In law enforcement, Mr.
Clinton and Mr. Livingstone's mother.
Livingstone was given the job and ap-
Jane Sherburne, White House special
proved for security clearance.
counsel, said Mrs. Clinton denies knowing
Mr. Livingstone and an assistant Im-
Mrs. Livingstone.
properly obtained FBI files on more than
400 people. Including many Republicans.
Although Mr. Scullmbrene says his
Congressional Investigators and Indepen-
performance has been consistently rated
dent Counsel Kenneth Starr are trying to
as exceptional by the FBI. Senate Investi-
determine whether the two men made an
gators questioned him about events that
innocent mistake or were seeking to dig up
could color his version of events. The FBI
dirt on political opponents. In private Inter-
agent sustained a severe head Injury two
views with congressional Investigators.
years ago that left him partly disabled.
Messrs. Livingstone and the assistant.
although he has returned to work. He
Anthony Marceca. have said that the files
is pursuing a discrimination complaint
were requested accidentally and weren't
misused.
against the FBI. claiming he has been
ordered to do work that contradicts his
Mr. Livingstone. who Is on leave from
the White House post, referred questions to
physician's recommendations. He said he
his attorneys. Mr. Livingstone's lawyer.
is also under Investigation for allegedly
David Cohen. declined to discuss the back-
giving his son his government parking
ground Investigation of Mr. Livingstone.
pass.
Mr. Scullmbrene also said he worries
"Background Investigations are private
matters." he said.
that he may be suffering retribution from
superiors because he testified on behalf of
Slow Clearance Process
former travel office director Billy Date at
Mr. Scullmbrene. who worked at the
Mr. Date's embezziement trial last year.
White House for a decade and has con-
Mr. Dale was acquitted. The firing of Mr.
ducted numerous background probes of
Date and the rest of the travel office In 1993
presidential appointees. described his ex-
led to & congressional Inquiry and eventu-
perience with the Clinton administration
ally to the disclosure that the White House
In a two-hour Interview with Senate Inves-
had Improperly obtained Mr. Dale's FBI
tigators. The security office problems
file. along with more than 400 others.
started early In the Clinton White House.
Questions also were raised yesterday
Mr. Scullmbrene said. The clearance pro-
about whether Messrs. Livingstone and
cess was moving very slowly. and many
Marceca also collected confidential Inter
people were walking around the complex
nal Revenue Service data. According to a
without proper passes, he said. Mr. Scu-
letter sent yesterday by Sen. Charles
limbrene and another FBI agent at the
Grassley, an towa Republican. to FBI
While House. Gary Aldrich. repeatedly
Director Louis Freen. a box of documents
complained to their superiors about prob-
removed from Mr. Livingstone's office by
lems. and at one point Mr. Scullmbrene
the FBI contained a folder full of papers
said he suggested turning over the security
bearing the IRS logo. Sen. Grassley asked
office to a professional rather than a
the FBI director to describe what sort of
political appointees
documents are In the folder.
TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS
UNITED STATES SENATE
* * *
COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY
* * *
INTERVIEW OF M. DENNIS SCULIMBRENE
SA
*
*
Washington, D. C.
June 19, 1996
MILLER REPORTING COMPANY, INC.
507 C Street, N.F.
Washington. D.C. 20002
(202) 546-6666
jam
60
1
the head of the military office.
2
Mr. Larkin. I want to do one thing real quick. Can I
3
get a phone number where I can give you a call later?
4
Mr. Sculimbrene. 754-4265. That is my home number.
5
Mr. Larkin. And where do you live at?
6
Mr. Sculimbrene. 1521-
7
Mr. Larkin. Well, no.
8
Mr. Sculimbrene. 703.
9
Mr. Larkin. Area code is what I meant to say.
10
Mr. Hubbard. Now, you said Craig Livingstone had this
11
job because who wanted him to have the job?
12
Mr. Sculimbrene. Mrs. Clinton is apparently a friend
13
of Craig's mother.
14
Mr. Yoo. Mrs. Clinton is a friend of Craig's mother?
15
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes. And that is why Bill Kennedy
16
told me he was stuck with Craig.
17
Mr. Larkin. What do you think his background and
18
expertise is to getting him in a high-profile job like that?
19
Mr. Sculimbrene. Craig's?
20
Mr. Larkin. Yes.
21
Mr. Sculimbrene. Now, mind you, I did his background
22
now. So I - -
23
Mr. Larkin. I don't want to get into this. As a
24
matter of fact, I won't even ask it.
25
Mr. Yoo Let me ask you, though, do you have any do
MILLER REPORTING CO., INC
10' C Screet, NF
Wishington DC 2000:
jam
61
1
you remember any conversations where you were told that Mr.
--
2
Livingstone got the job because he was connected with Mrs.
3
Clinton?
4
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes. Kennedy told me that.
5
Mr. Yoo. Bill Kennedy told you that?
6
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes, because Kennedy asked me whether
7
we should keep him.
8
Mr. Yoo. Do you remember what was said? Do you
9
remember the exact words?
10
Mr. Sculimbrene. No. The exact words, no. The word
11
"stuck" stays - - the word "stuck" sticks in my mind; that he
12
was stuck with him.
13
Mr. Yoo. Do you remember when you talked to him?
14
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes. This was a month or two into
15
the administration when we were looking for somebody to take
16
over Jane Dannenhauer's job, and like I said, I had gone to
17
Bill Kennedy proposing Jackie Dinwiddie as a candidate, and
18
I thought why not.
19
Mr. Larkin. A Democrat.
20
Mr. Sculimbrene. Here is a Democrat who worked on the
21
campaign, worked on the transition, honest, you know,
22
trustworthy. The Bureau had worked with her in the past.
23
Perfect candidate, but do they pick her? No.
24
Mr. Larkin. You know, under what circumstances did
25
this occur, the conversation?
MILLER REPORTING CO., INC.
" C Sireet, NE
Vashington DC 2000!
jam
62
1
Mr. Sculimbrene. It could have possibly been during
-
2
the conversation when I went to Bill Kennedy to talk to him
3
about, you know, an employee or maybe during Bill Kennedy's
4
own background investigation when I went to interview him
5
about his own case, but I did have a number of interviews
6
with you know, here is the standard practice up there.
7
You know, you go in and you do your job, and then, you
8
know, like everything else, well, what did you do this
9
weekend, you know, and we lapsed into personal, private
10
conversations, and that'is what happened to- that is when
11
the subject of Jackie Dinwiddie came up. That is when I
12
interjected my belief that it would help the administration,
13
it would help the FBI to have an employee who had previous
14
experience there, and certainly she had the credentials for
15
the job, but I was told by Kennedy that he was stuck with
16
Livingstone and that was the end of it.
17
Mr. Yoo. How did he refer to Mrs. Clinton in your
18
conversation?
19
Mr. Sculimbrene. How did he refer to her?
20
Mr. Yoo. Yes.
21
Mr. Sculimbrene. Do you mean like what words did he
22
use? Whatever he said, I took it to mean the First Lady.
23
Mr. Yoo. Okay.
24
Mr. Sculimbrene. The First Lady or Hillary.
25
Mr. Yoo. When he said that Mrs. Clinton that Craig
MILLER REPORTING CO., INC
.0) C Street, NE
Washington DC 20002
jam
63
1
had to be - - that he was stuck with Craig because of his
-
2
connection to the First Lady, do you remember the exact
3
words he might have used?
4
Mr. Sculimbrene. No. Like I said, the only word that
5
really sticks out in my mind is the word "stuck."
6
Now, mind you, whether it is true or not, I mean, I
7
don't know for a fact. I don't know whether for a fact that
8
Craig Livingstone's mother - for all I know, Craig
9
Livingstone may have told him that and he believed him.
10
Mr. Larkin. Your recollection is it had something to
11
do with Craig's mother?
12
Mr. Sculimbrene. Mother, yes.
13
Mr. Larkin. Okay.
14
Mr. Hubbard. Now, when Mr. Kennedy made this
15
statement, did he use either the name "Hillary Clinton" or
16
"Hillary Rodham Clinton" or "the First Lady"? Did he
17
designate her or did you infer from what he said that he was
18
referring to Hillary?
19
Mr. Sculimbrene. Perhaps I inferred that he was
20
talking about the First Lady, but I think I was correct in
21
my inference.
22
Mr. Hubbard. And on what basis would you say that?
23
Mr. Sculimbrene. Well, why would he keep why would he
24
keep this person here that I don't think he personally
-
25
liked? I don't think he thought he had the qualifications
MILLER REPORTING CO., INC
107 C Street, NE
1 ashington. DC 20002
jam
64
1
He knew - - he knew of his he knew of the problems in his
-
2
background investigation. He asked me when I kind of
3
refused to answer the question whether he should be hired
4
there, and then when I tried to supply a new person, it
5
seemed to me like - - here, I will lay it right on his lap.
6
Here is the perfect person to solve your problems, and the
7
answer to that is, well, I really can't do it because you
8
know who wants him there. Now, that is an inference. That
9
is an inference.
10
Mr. Larkin. Did Craig ever make any reference to the
11
fact of how he came there?
12
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes. Now, Craig did tell me that his
13
mother
14
Mr. Larkin. Was what?
15
Mr. Sculimbrene. -knew Hillary Clinton.
16
Mr. Larkin. He said -
17
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes, he did tell me that, but Craig
18
told me several things that were not true.
19
Mr. Hubbard. Such as?
20
Mr. Yoo. Do you remember when he said that?
21
Mr. Sculimbrene. I don't--I am getting at the gray
22
area here now.
23
Ms. Owens. No, no. You are fine there. If I lean
24
forward, it IS because he had mentioned derogatory in
25
reference to Livingstone's file, and ] am concerned
MILLER REPORTING CO., INC.
so, C Street, NE
Wishington, DC 20002
jam
65
1.
about - that reflects the results of an investigation when he
2
said that there was derogatory, and I would just assume-
}
Mr. Larkin. And we will, like, strike that, okay, for
4
the record.
5
Ms. Owens. That was the only area I had concern in,
6
and they have been very good about the leading things or
7
problematic.
8
Mr. Larkin. We are trying. We are trying.
9
Mr. Hubbard. Can I follow up on this?
10
Mr. Yoo. What day did do you remember when Mr.
11
Livingstone made that comment to you about her mother?
12
Mr. Sculimbrene. This was during my several interviews
13
with him in the process of doing his background
14
investigation.
15
Mr. Hubbard. You said that he told you several things
16
that you now know to be untrue. Can you tell us what they
17
are?
18
Mr. Sculimbrene. Mr. Livingstone or Mr. Kennedy?
19
Mr. Hubbard. Mr. Livingstone.
20
Mr. Sculimbrene. Well, we are going to get into-
21
Ms. Owens. Are they in connection with the background
22
investigation when he was interviewed?
23
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes.
24
Mr. Larkin. We will pass
25
Mr. Yoo. Can I. ask just one or LWD questions? We are
ILLER REPORTING CO INC
( Succe. NE
shingion DC 2000.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 25, 1994
Mr. Dennis M. Sculimbrene
15211 Haymarket Drive
Haymarket, Virginia
Dear Dennis:
Hillary and I were SO sorry to learn
of your accident. You are in our thoughts
and prayers during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
396
#1279718 1-102A
Today's Date:
1/24
Date of Event:
STAFF REQUEST FOR PRESIDENTIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT LETTER
REQUEST
TO:
Presidential Support
FROM:
(Name)
Ron beisles
Room 62
(Dept.)
Rm 5
Ext. 2304
(Room)
(Ext.)
A MINIMUM OF 2 WEEKS NOTICE IS REQUIRED FOR PROCESSING
ALL REQUESTS ARE SUBJECT TO FINAL APPROVAL BY MARSHA SCOTT
Mark
in appropriate box and include any additional comments pertinent to
the request in information space below.
TYPE OF EVENT
RETIREMENT
CONDOLENCE
ILLNESS
(no. of yrs; name of
(sent to
(type: surgery,
CO. or govt agency)
next-of-kin only)
accident, cancer, etc.)
BIRTHDAY
GRADUATION
WEDDING
(no. of years)
(list name of school
(provide first names)
and degree awarded)
BIRTH OF BABY
ADOPTION
BAR OR BAT MITZVAH
(child's name &
(list parents &
parents first name)
child's name)
WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
OTHER
(no. of years)
(please specify)
INFORMATION:
Injury - The critical head injury from a
mechanical accident white working en an airplane.
MAILING ADDRESS FOR LABEL (include complete address and zip code)
CIRCLE ONE:
Mr
Mrs. Miss Mr. & Mrs. Dr. Ms.
NAME:
Dennis M. Sculimbrene
ADDRESS:
15211 Haymarket Drive
CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE:
Haymarket, VA 22069
INSIDE ADDRESS FOR LETTER (complete address to appear on letter)
CIRCLE ONE: Mr. Mrs. Miss Mr. & Mrs. Dr. Ms.
397
NAME:
ADDRESS:
CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE:
SAME
060732
WH006
Document Tracking System
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION
Control Number: 1688
File Number:
Subject File: MISCELLANEOUS
DOCUMENT PROFILE
COPY
Date:
02/17/93
To:
All White House Office Staff
from ORM
From:
Vicent Foester and William Kennedy
Description: Security Clearance
ACTION
Date:
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Division:
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signature Level:
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398
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
FEBRUARY 17, 1993
MEMORANDUM TO: ALL WHITE HOUSE OFFICE STAFF
FROM:
VINCENT W. FOSTER
if
DEPUTY COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
WILLIAM H. KENNEDY III
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL
As a condition of employment in the White House Office, as
well as obtaining a security clearance generally, each member of
the White House Office staff must submit a completed Form 86
(Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions) and supplement, and
thereafter be interviewed by an FBI agent. Most of you have
already submitted the paperwork. You should be receiving a call
from Agent Gary Aldrich or Agent Dennis Sculimbrene requesting a
meeting with you. It is mandatory that you have a personal
interview with one of these agents before you can receive final
clearance to work in the White House Office and obtain a
permanent badge.
There are a large number of staff members yet to be
interviewed and only a few weeks left to complete them before
your temporary clearance expires. Please be responsive to the
Agent's request for an interview and accommodate his schedule.
Avoid the last-week crunch and the risk of expiration of your
temporary clearance.
399
1063587
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
FEBRUARY 17, 1993
G 0 P Y
MEMORANDUM TO: ALL WHITE HOUSE OFFICE STAFF
FROM:
VINCENT W. FOSTER
from ORM
DEPUTY COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
WILLIAM H. KENNEDY III
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL
As a condition of employment in the White House Office, as
well as obtaining a security clearance generally, each member of
the White House Office staff must submit a completed Form 86
(Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions) and supplement, and
thereafter be interviewed by an FBI agent. Most of you have
already submitted the paperwork. You should be receiving a call
from Agent Gary Aldrich or Agent Dennis Sculimbrene requesting a
meeting with you. It is mandatory that you have a personal
interview with one of these agents before you can receive final
clearance to work in the White House Office and obtain a
permanent badge.
There are a large number of staff members yet to be
interviewed and only a few weeks left to complete them before
your temporary clearance expires. Please be responsive to the
Agent's request for an interview and accommodate his schedule.
Avoid the last-week crunch and the risk of expiration of your
temporary clearance.
400
176900
UT001-03
Telephone Log for STEPHANOPOULOS, GEORGE
New Calls
Page #: 1
06/28/96
DOWD, MAUREEN
12:13 PM
Ph #: (202) 862-0402
Home:
Other
Car:
Answered
Fax:
Taken By: NATALIE
First in to useas
1
Statemed in Bush wH
CO P Y
2
Sculimbaene
Saw the light
from ORM
Reagan greet men
who we lived
19
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from ORM
FG017-02
STATEMENT
Mark Fabiani
Special Associate Counsel to the President
July 25, 1996
Today Representative William Clinger, hiding behind the
legal fig leaf of the Speech or Debate Clause, took the
extraordinary step of divulging on the House floor highly
confidential and completely false information from an FBI
background investigation.
Congressman Clinger has failed utterly to prove that the
White House ever improperly released any private information from
FBI files. Thus, today's astonishing speech by Mr. Clinger
represents the first and only disclosure of confidential FBI
background information during this entire matter.
What is worse, Congressman Clinger divulged confidential
information that is clearly false and that originates from a
questionable source. Bernard Nussbaum has said that the alleged
conversation between Mr. Nussbaum and FBI Agent Dennis
Sculimbrene never took place. Mrs. Livingstone has said that she
does not know the First Lady and has never even met or spoken
with Mrs. Clinton. And the First Lady has said that she does not
know Mrs. Livingstone.
BEORGE
STEPHANDPOLICAS
Copy
402
In addition, Mr. Clinger surely knows that, according to a
published report, an FBI agent informed his superiors that Agent
Sculimbrene harbored "very bitter political feelings against the
White House." This same FBI agent also charged Agent Sculimbrene
with "irrational" behavior. (Washington Post, June 28, 1996.)
Yet other published reports indicate that Agent Sculimbrene is
involved in a continuing dispute with the FBI regarding his work
assignments. And, in recent weeks another FBI agent who had been
assigned to the White House and worked with Agent Sculimbrene
published a book containing wild rumors and rank innuendo; that
book was thoroughly and completely discredited.
Nonetheless, Representative Clinger took to the House floor
and divulged false information from a confidential FBI report in
a desperate attempt to grab attention for his faltering
"investigation." Mr. Clinger's speech today will be seen by most
Americans as a reckless, partisan act.
403
2
FACT SHEET
Sculimbrene's allegations have been disputed by all parties:
Mrs. Livingstone states: "I do not know Hillary Rodham Clinton, I have
never met Mrs. Clinton, and I have never spoken with Mrs. Clinton. We are
not, and never have been, personal friends." [Statement of Mrs. Gloria
Livingstone, 7/25/96]
Mr. Nussbaum states: "I never told FBI Agent Sculimbrene, or anyone else,
that the First Lady recommended Craig Livingstone for his position in the
White House or that the First Lady knew Livingstone's mother." [Statement of
Mr. Bernard Nussbaum, 7/25/96]
Mrs. Clinton has stated: "I did not know his mother. I did not know him.
I did not have anything to do with his being hired." [First Lady Hillary
Rodham Clinton's statement in Helsinki, Finland on 7/10/96]
Mr. Bill Kennedy has stated: "I have never had any discussion with Mrs.
Clinton about Mr. Livingstone. No one else ever told me that Mrs. Clinton
had any interest whatsoever in Mr. Livingstone or his position." [Statement of
William H. Kennedy, 6/29/96]
Mr. Craig Livingstone has stated: "I've asked my mother and she, for the
record, says that she has never met Mrs. Clinton." [Livingstone testimony
before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 6/28/96]
Dennis Sculimbrene has offered differing accounts of the story involving Mrs. Clinton
and Mrs. Livingstone:
"According to Mr. Sculimbrene, both Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Livingstone told
him that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew Mrs. Clinton, which seemed to
explain his standing. However, Mr. Sculimbrene said he has no independent
knowledge of whether the two women actually knew one another and
suggested that Mr. Livingstone may have made it up in an attempt to inflate
his status or protect his job." [Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96]
Q: Now, you said Craig Livingstone had this job because who wanted him to
have the job?
Sculimbrene: Mrs. Clinton is apparently a friend of Craig's mother.
4 0 4
Sculimbrene: Yes. And that is why Bill Kennedy told me he was stuck with
Craig.
Q: Let me ask you, though, do you have any--do you remember any
conversations where you were told that Mr. Livingstone got that job because
he was connected with Mrs. Clinton?
Sculimbrene: Yes. Kennedy told me that.
[Sculimbrene Interview before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 6/19/96]
Sculimbrene's FBI interview report states that Mr. Bernard Nussbaum was the
individual who informed him (Sculimbrene) that Mr. Livingstone received his
job because of a pre-existing relationship between Mrs. Livingstone and Mrs.
Clinton.
According to a news account, FBI agent David Bowie, who worked with
Sculimbrene, wrote in an August, 1995 memo that Sculimbrene had "very bitter
political feelings against the White House." Bowie further accused Sculimbrene of
"irrational" behavior. [The Washington Post, 6/28/96]
Sculimbrene is involved in an employment dispute with the FBI, alleging he was
discriminated against because of his handicap. (Sculimbrene suffered a severe head
injury after being hit by a propeller.) Sculimbrene has been quoted by another FBI
agent as saying, "he could get away with anything" because he was disabled. [The
Washington Post, 6/29/96]
In a news account, Sculimbrene stated the FBI was seeking retribution for his
testimony in the Dale trial. (Sculimbrene testified on behalf of Billy Ray Dale at
Dale's trial for embezzlement in November of 1995.) [Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96]
Numerous issues regarding the propriety of the actions of other FBI agents assigned
to the Clinton White House have arisen over the last few years. " the FBI post at
the White House has also been the subject of considerable controversy, particularly
during the Clinton administration." [The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
"One of the agents who helped with White House background checks in 1994
and 1995, Halbert Gary Harlow, was charged and eventually convicted last
year of falsifying at least 50 interviews that he claimed to have conducted."
[The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
Former FBI agent Gary Aldrich published a book on the Clinton White House
which featured wild, unsubstantiated rumors. The book was widely criticized
for making public raw FBI data. Aldrich "published his account without
completing a required FBI review process." [The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
405
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 25, 1996
BY TELECOPY
Louis J. Freeh
Director
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Dear Director Freeh:
As you may know, Congressman Clinger today divulged, on
the House floor, an interview report from a confidential FBI
background investigation that has been declared to be false by
the person who was interviewed. I am writing to you to ask how
we can work together to ensure continued public confidence in the
accuracy of FBI investigations.
According to Mr. Clinger's statement today, the
background investigation file on Mr. Craig Livingstone includes a
report by Agent Dennis Sculimbrene on a conversation he says he
had with White House Counsel Bernard Nussbaum concerning Mr.
Livingstone's hiring. But, according to a statement issued by
Mr. Nussbaum today, that conversation never took place.
This Administration and the American people have
enormous confidence in the FBI, for good reason. And, the role
that the agency plays in conducting background investigations and
helping to ensure the suitability of appointees for their posts
cannot be overstated. The President, you and the American people
have a large stake indeed in the fairness and accuracy of this
process.
That is why we are troubled, as we know you must be, by
the implication that an FBI background investigation, might
include a false report. This matter is especially worrisome
coming as it does on the heels of published reports of the
conviction of one of the agents who did background checks at the
White House on charges of falsifying at least 50 interviews that
he claimed to have conducted.
406
It is equally troubling that a Member of Congress can
publicly reveal confidential FBI information, whether for
partisan purposes or otherwise. It should not escape notice that
this is done at a time when Members of Congress have expressed
wor employee of the execute ye branch might have sought
and
planned to somehow use it publicly. While that charge has never
been established against anyone in the executive branch, we now
witness the same objectionable behavior by the very people who
professed to be the guardians of privacy.
It is important that we take steps to ensure continuing
confidence in the confidentiality and the integrity of the FBI
clearance process. I look forward to your suggestions as to how
we can work with you to that end.
Best regards,
Sincerely,
Jane Quinn to the Qui President
Attachment
407
Contact:
July 25, 1996
Jim Fitzpatrick
202-942-5878
STATEMENT OF BERNARD NUSSBAUM
I never told FBI Agent Sculimbrene, or anyone
else, that the First Lady recommended Craig Livingstone
for his position in the White House or that the First
Lady knew Livingstone's mother. I never knew or heard
any such things. In fact, I understand that the First
Lady and Livingstone's mother don't know each other. I
am mystified and outraged that someone would attribute
to me something I never said.
+
408
Statement of William H. Kennedy
Gary Aldrich's account of a conversation with me about
Craig Livingstone's suitability for the job of Director of
Personnel Security is pure fiction. I never told Aldrich that
Mrs. Clinton wanted Mr. Livingstone in that post. 1 have never
had any discussion with Mrs. Clinton about Craig Livingstone. No
one else ever told me that Mrs. Clinton had any interest
whatsoever in Mr. Livingstone or his position.
June 29, 1996
#
411
Original
1
RPTS STRICKLAND
2
DCMN GALLACHER
3
4
COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT REFORM AND OVERSIGHT
5
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
6
WASHINGTON, D.C.
7
8
9
x
10
In the matter of:
:
:
11
WHITE HOUSE TRAVEL
:
DEPOSITION OF
:
WILLIAM H. KENNEDY, III
12
:
X
13
14
15
Tuesday, June 18, 1996
16
17
Washington, D.C.
18
19
20
The deposition in the above matter was held in Room 2203,
21
Rayburn House Office Building, commencing at 9:35 a.m.
22
23
24
412
25
4
1
THEREUPON,
2
WILLIAM H. KENNEDY, III,
3
a witness, was called for examination by counsel, and after
4
having been first duly sworn, was examined and testified as
5
follows:
6
EXAMINATION BY MS. COMSTOCK:
7
Q
Mr. Kennedy, you joined the White House Counsel's
8
Office in March of '93; is that correct?
9
A
No, that's not correct. February of '93.
10
Q
Okay. Was it late February?
11
A
Nope. First week of February.
12
Q
Okay. And do you know who was involved in your
13
hiring?
14
A
With specificity, no.
15
0
Did the First Lady have any involvement in your
16
hiring?
17
A
She did.
to
18
Q
Do you know if the First Lady was involved in hiring
19
Mr. Nussbaum at all?
20
A
I can't answer that.
21
Q
Do you know if the First Lady was involved in hiring
22
Mr. Foster at all?
23
A
I presume she was. I don't know that directly.
24
Q
Do you know if the First Lady was involved at all
25
with the hiring of Craig Livingston in your office?
413
5
1
A
I don't believe she was. I do not know one way or
2
the other. I don't believe so.
3
Q
Do you recall ever saying to anyone that the First
4
Lady wanted to have Craig Livingston in the position at the
5
Security Office at the White House?
6
A
Me ever saying that?
7
Q
Yes.
8
A
I never said that.
9
Q
Do you recall when you got your security clearance
10
when you were at the White House?
11
A
Huh-uh. No.
12
Q
Do you know who adjudicated your file?
13
A
I do not.
14
Q
Do you know if there were any tax problems that came
15
to anyone's attention in your file when you first came to the
16
White House in 1993?
17
A
I decline to talk about my file. I've never seen
18
it.
I don't know what's in it.
19
I
Did there come a time when you had some nanny tax
20
problems?
21
A
There were allegations of those problems, yes.
22
Q
And had you informed anyone in the counsel's office
23
about those tax problems?
24
A
I did.
25
I
And who did you inform?
414
THE PAGINATION or THIS DOCUMENT I8 UNOFFICIAL
COMPLETE
JUNE 26, 1996 CLINGER COMMITTEE TRANSCRIPT
PARTIAL TRANSCRIPT
KENNEDY, LIVINGSTONE, MARCECA, NUSSEAUM, WETZL
NUSSBAUM: I worked with Mrs. Clinton on the impeachment inquiry.
And I
HORN: Right.
NUSSBAUM: And I don't think we were close personal friends with
her or the president, but I did know them over the years, yes.
HORN: Well, what I'm curious now is, Mr. Marceca and Mr.
Livingstone, did Vice President Gore or Mrs. Clinton recommend you for
the position you held, Mr. Livingstone, to your knowledge?
LIVINGSTONE: I have no knowledge of that.
HORN: You have no knowledge of that. Mr. Marceca?
Do you have any awareness of either Mrs. Clinton
MARCECA: I highly doubt it.
HORN:
Vice President Gore. OK, how about Mr. Carville, did
he recommend either one of you for a position? Did you get to know
him, Mr. Livingstone, in the campaign?
LIVINGSTONE: I don't believe Mr. Carville at that time knew who
I was.
HORN: OK. How about you, Mr. Marceca?
MARCECA: I don't believe he had any involvement in my getting
the detail at all.
HORN: OK, let me put to each one of you, have you been offered a
position in the public or private sector by anyone in the White House
who's either an agent, a friend, or a relative of the president, the
vice president or any member of the Executive Branch to say as little
as you possibly can in this hearing or related hearings? Has anyone
offered you that position in the private sector or the public sector
if, in brief. you keep quiet?
114
415
Ex-FBI Agent: First Lady
Wanted Livingstone on Staff
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THE PAGINATION OF THIS DOCUMENT IS UNOFFICIAL
JUNE 28, 1996 SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE TRANSCRIPT
WITNESSES: LIVINGSTONE, WETZL
LEAHY: Someone who's going to go into this administration?
LIVINGSTONE: Right. But I wanted to explain it rather than just
say only within pursuance of my duties so you'd understand an example.
LEAHY: I understand. So in other words, if the administration
as it has has appointed people from past administrations
LIVINGSTONE: Yes, sir.
LEAHY:
then they would ask for the file.
LIVINGSTONE: Yes, sir.
LEAHY: OK. I've also read in the press allegations that come
from unspecified sources that your mother is a close friend of the
first lady. Is she?
LIVINGSTONE: No, sir.
LEAHY: And you have no idea who those sources are that tell
these things?
LIVINGSTONE: No, sir. I've asked my mother and she, for the
record, says that she has never met Mrs. @linton.
LEAHY: Well, we have -- the other night I was at an event here
on the Hill, and one of the key chairman here was not there at the
moment, and there was also a fire going on down at the Treasury
building. We assumed that he was immediately calling a hearing to
disclose how Mrs. Clinton started the fire at the Treasury building.
We seem to have these allegations go out immediately.
LIVINGSTONE: I have no knowledge of that.
-
(LAUGHTER)
LEAHY: You had nothing to do with the fire. I mean, we might as
well -- because by about tomorrow, there' 11 probably be an article in
the press saying that the suggestion and the statement was left
unanswered whether Mr. Livingstone started the fire at the Treasury
417
36
THE PAGINATION OF THIS DOCUMENT IS (MOFFICIAL
COMPLETE
JUNE 26, 1996 CLINGER COMMITTEE TRANSCRIPT
PARTIAL TRANSCRIPT
KENNEDY, LIVINGSTONE, MARCECA, NUSSBAUM, WETZL
LIVINGSTONE: At the inaugural, I
MICA: Security, OK, for the inaugural committee.
LIVINGSTONE: Yes, sir.
MICA: And did you feel to did a pretty good job?
LIVINGSTONE: Yes, I do. I got a very nice letter from the
director of the Secret Service and a plaque from the Secret Service.
MICA: Was the first lady or the president aware of your service?
LIVINGSTONE: I don't have any knowledge to that effect.
MICA: Does anyone in your family have any relationship with the
first family?
LIVINGSTONE: Absolutely not.
II
MICA: Did you report to Mr. Kennedy on the first day when you
came into the White House? When you said he hired you? Who did you
report to and talk to
LIVINGSTONE: I believe I testified earlier that I worked on
advance prior to going on the payroll.
MICA: I know but the first day at the White House who did you
report to? Went you went on the payroll, who's the first one you
talked to?
LIVINGSTONE: I believe Miss Cheryl Mills, counsel's office.
MICA: Were you aware at any time of problems in the White House
relating to security because you immediately got into the security
business, were you aware of any leaks or problems with security at the
White House?
LIVINGSTONE: Well, as I testified earlier. my job, sir, as I
understood it, was largely administrative at the White House.
134
41.8
Page 3
STH STORY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright 1996 The Washington Post
The Washington Post
June 29, 1996, Saturday, Final Edition
SECTION: A SECTION; Pg. A14
LENGTH: 857 words
HEADLINE: Aldrich Despised Clintons, Colleagues Say: Former FBI Agent at White
House Was 'Cozy With Bush Staff'
BYLINE: Serge F. Kovaleski; Pierre Thomas, Washington Post Staff Writers
BODY:
To a number of his peers, was a competent FBI agent with strong conservative
convictions who felt a kinship with the Bush administration and was openly
disgusted when Bill Clinton captured the Oval Office.
"He was very cozy with most of the Bush staff," said an FBI agent who knows
Aldrich and spoke on the condition of anonymity. There is "no doubt he has a
phenomenal bias" against the Clintons.
"He was almost personally offended that the Clintons had won, and made no
secret of that, the agent said. After Clinton was elected president, the agent
said, Aldrich remarked, "I've never seen so many ponytailed, 50-year-old men in
my life.
Aldrich, a 26-year veteran of the FBI, retired last year because, he has
suggested, his experience in the Clinton White House soured him on the bureau.
He had spent the last five years of his career as one of two FBI agents assigned
to the White House, where he was responsible for conducting background
investigations on White House personnel.
In his controversial new book, "Unlimited Access: an FBI Agent Inside the
Clinton White House, Aldrich described his post as an elite assignment that
afforded him the unique opportunity to look out the window and see "a king or a
queen visiting the president "
But the FBI post at the White House has also been the subject of considerable
controversy, particularly during the Clinton administration. One of the agents
who helped with White House background checks in 1994 and 1995, Halbert Gary
Harlow, was charged and eventually convicted last year of falsifying at least 50
interviews that he claimed to have conducted.
Aldrich was assigned to full-time duty at the White House with agent Dennis
Sculimbrene, who almost lost his life in a 1995 accident, and has been quoted by
another FBI agent as saying "he could get away with anything" because he was
disabled. Sculimbrene is involved in a legal dispute with the FBI over his work
assignments. He alleges he 1S being discriminated against because of his
disability.
119
Page 5
The Washington Post June 29 1996
Staff writer Jim McGee contributed to this report
LANGUAGE: ENGLISH
LOAD-DATE: June 29, 1996
420
Page 4
The Washington Post June ?9 !906
The FBI response to the allegations raised in Aldrich's book was a terse.
two-paragraph statement saying that Aldrich had published his account without
completing a required bureau review process.
As a condition of FBI employment, all employees and former employees are
required to submit for review any publications that "could have been based on
knowledge gained as a result of their employment," the FBI release said. "The
purpose of this review is to ensure the integrity of the investigative or other
official information employees learn as part of their official duties."
Jay Stephens, Aldrich's lawyer and former Republican U.S. attorney for
Washington, said yesterday that over the last six months he and his client had
worked closely with the FBI to address any concerns the agency may have about
the manuscript.
"We substantially met all their concerns except for a couple of very limited
passages that have become moot as a result of the hearings into problems in
security clearances at the White House," Stephens said.
However, a senior bureau official disputed Stephens's account, saying that
substantial issues remained unresolved before the book's publication.
Some senior bureau officials yesterday appeared caught in the position of
trying to respond to a book with some credible allegations and other claims they
considered undocumented rumor.
"Are we outraged by this behavior?" asked one senior bureau official. "Of
course we are." But the official said that the bureau hasn't decided what to do
about the book and noted that Aldrich does have First Amendment rights.
Should it decide to take action against Aldrich for publishing before the
review process was completed, the bureau's only option is to pursue civil
litigation to control profits of the book, said one source.
Upon first receiving the book, the FBI forwarded it to its Office
Professional Responsibility as a part of routine procedure. Thus far the bureau
has not been able to secure documents to substantiate Aldrich's claims about
security procedures at the White House, sources said.
Aldrich first surfaced publicly two weeks ago, just after the controversy
erupted over the White House's improper receipt of hundreds of FBI files, when
he published an op-ed piece assailing the Clinton administration in the Wall
Street Journal. In it, he accused the White House of thwarting security and
background checks. He made no mention of the upcoming book.
The book describes the early Clinton White House as being in complete
disarray, rife with staff members who had once been drug abusers, suffering from
lax security clearance procedures and targeting employees that it wanted fired
to make room for individuals who were viewed as loyal to the Clintons. He also
claimed that the FBI ignored repeated complaints that the Clinton administration
was allowing staff members to go long periods of time without permanent White
House passes.
FBI sources said they had not yet been able to find any record of the
421
complaints Aldrich said
WSJ
Former Top FBI Agent at White House
Raises Questions About Security Office
6/25/96
In 1993. he thought he had & good
WASHINGTON - An FBI agent who
candidate. Jackle Dinwiddle. who worked
vas. until two months 150. the Lop FBI
In the security office during the Carter
agent working la the While House, has
administration. However. when he
raised new questions about the While
brought the ldes to then-deputy White
House's personnel security office and He
director. Crats Livingstone.
House counsel William Kennedy-w has
FBI agent Dennts Scullmbrene, who'
since resigned - be says Mr. Kennedy told
was recently transferred from the White
him that he was stuck with Mr. Uring
House to FBI's Washington field office. has
stone. Mr. Scullmbrene told Investigators
told Investigators for the Senate Judiciary
that Mr. Kennedy knew there were prob-
Committee that he raised complaints with
tems In Mr. Livingstone's own background
bis superiors about the chaolic manage
Investigation. and another person familiar
ment of the personnel security office two
with the matter confirms this Mr. Ken-
years ago and that he also had suggested
nedy and his lawyer didn't respond to.
that the office be run La a non-political
manner. But Mr. Livingstone's hold on the
requests for comment
job was secure because, the FBI agent said
According to Mr. Scullmbrene. both
be was told. Mr. Livingstone's mother
Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Livingstone told him
knew First Lady Hillary Rodham Cinton
that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew Mrs.
A Walte House spokeswoman and &
Clinton. which seemed to explain his
lawyer for Mr. Uringstone both deny that
standing. However. Mr. Scullmbrene said
Mrs. Clinion knows Mr. Livingstone's
be has no Independent knowledge of
mother. Mr. Scullmbrene doesn't know
whether the two worden actually knew one
why be was transferred from his post at the
another and suggested that Mr. Living-
While House. He is currently embrolled in
stone may have made II up In as attempt to
& legal dispute with the Federal Bureau of
Inflate his status or protect his job. An-
Investigation over work assignments.
During an unsworn loterview Wednes-
other person who worked with Mr. Living-
stone confirms that Mr. Uringstone
daywith the staff of the Senate Judiciary
Committee. Mr. Scullmbrene alleged that
boasted of des between bis mother and
Mrs. Clinton
Mr. Livingatone had some problems In bis
background and had said some untrue
An Absolute Fabrication'
things to the FBI when he underwent an
Mr. Cohen, Mr. Livingstone's lawyer.
threstigation for security clearance. He
called this account "an absolute fabrica-
didn't Lell Investigators what the alleged
Uon." White House officials said that Mr.
problems la Mr. Livingstone's background
Kennedy has dented telling Mr. Scullm-
or untrue statements were. Despite having
brene of any connection between Mrs.
no background In law enforcement. Mr.
Clinton and Mr. Livingstone's mother.
Livingstone was given the job and ap-
Jane Sherburne, While House special
proved for security clearance.
counsel, said Mrs. Claton dentes knowing
Mr. Livingstone and an assistant Im
Mrs. Livingstone.
property obtained FBI fues on more than
400 people. including many Republicans.
Although Mr. Sculimbrene says his
Congressional Investigators and Indepen-
performance has been consistently rated
deal Counsel Kenneth Starr are trying to
as exceptional by the FBL Senate Investi-
determine whether the two men made an
gators questioned him about events that
Innocent mistake or were seeking to dig up
could color his version of events. The FBI
dirt on political appoints. in private Inter-
agent sustained a severe head Injury two
views with congressional investigators.
years ago that left him partly disabled.
Messes. Livingstone and the assistant.
although he has returned to work. He
Anthony Marceca. have said that the files
is pursuing . discrimination complaint
were requested accidentally and weren't
against the FBR claiming he has been
misused.
ordered to do work that contradicts his
Mr. Livingstone. who is on leave from
the White House post. referred questions to
physician's recommendations. He said he
is also under Investigation (or allegedly
his attorneys. Mr. Livingstone's lawyer,
David Cohen, declined to discuss the back.
giving his son his government parking
ground Investigation of Mr. Livingsione.
pass.
Mr. Scullmbrene also said he worries
"Background Investigations are private
matters." he sald.
that he may be suffering retribution from
superiors because he lestilled on behalf of
Slow Clearance Process
former travel office director Billy Date at
Mr. Scuttmbrene. who worked al the
Mr. Date's emberziement trial last year.
While House for a decade and has con-
Mr. Dale was acquilled. The firing of Mr.
ducted numerous background probes of
Date and the rest of the travel office In 1993
presidential appointees. described his ex.
led 10 a congressional Inquiry and eventu-
perience with the Clinton administration
ally to the disclosure that the While House
in a two-hour Interview with Senate Inves.
had Improperly obtained Mr. Date's FBI
digators. The security office problems
file. along with more these 400 others.
started earty la the Clinton While House.
Questions also were raised yesterday
Mr. Scullmbrene said. The clearance pro-
about whether Messrs. Livingstone and
cess WES moving very slowly. and many
Marceca also collected confidential Inter
people were walking around the complex
nal Revenue Service data. According 10 &
without proper passes. he said. Mr. Sru
letter sent yesterday by Sen. Charles
Ilmbrene and another FBI agent at the
Crassley. an lows Republican. to FBI
While House. Cary Aldrich. repeatedly
Director Louis Freen. a box of documents
complained to their superiors About prob-
removed from Mr. Uringstone's office by
422
lems. and at one point Mr. Scullmbrene
the FOI contained 4 folder full of papers
said he suggested turning over the security
bearing the IRS logo. Sen. Grassley asked
office to & professional this
to
describe
potitic
TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS
UNITED STATES SENATE
* * *
COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY
* * *
INTERVIEW OF M. DENNIS SCULIMBRENE
* *
Washington, D. C.
June 19, 1996
MILLER REPORTING COMPANY. INC.
507 C Street. N.E.
423
Washington. D.C. 20007
(702) 566-6666
jam
CC
1
the head of the military office.
-
2
Mr. Larkin. 1 want to do one thing real quick. Can I
3
get a phone number where I can give you a call later?
4
Mr. Sculimbrene. 754-4265. That is my home number.
5
Mr. Larkin. And where do you live at?
6
Mr. Sculimbrene. 1521--
7
Mr. Larkin. Well, no.
8
Mr. Sculimbrene. 703.
9
Mr. Larkin. Area code is what I meant to say.
10
Mr. Hubbard. Now, you said Craig Livingstone had this
11
job because who wanted him to have the job?
12
Mr. Sculimbrene. Mrs. Clinton is apparently a friend
13
of Craig's mother.
14
Mr. Yoo. Mrs. Clinton is a friend of Craig's mother?
15
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes. And that is why Bill Kennedy
16
told me he was stuck with Craig.
17
Mr. Larkin. What do you think his background and
18
expertise is to getting him in a high-profile job like that?
19
Mr. Sculimbrene. Craig's?
20
Mr. Larkin. Yes
21
Mr. Sculimbrene. Now, mind you, I did his background
22
now. So I - -
23
Mr. Larkin. I don't want to get into this. As a
424
24
matter of fact, I won't even ask it.
YOU me ask you though do you have any do
)
am
61
1
you remember any conversations where you were told that Mr.
2
Livingstone got the job because he was connected with Mrs.
3
Clinton?
4
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes. Kennedy told me that.
5
Mr. Yoo. Bill Kennedy told you that?
6
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes, because Kennedy asked me whether
7
we should keep him.
8
Mr. Yoo. Do you remember what was said? Do you
o
9
remember the exact words?
10
Mr. Sculimbrene. No. The exact words, no. The word
11
"stuck" stays - the word "stuck" sticks in my mind; that he
12
was stuck with him.
13
Mr. Yoo. Do you remember when you talked to him?
14
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes. This was a month or two into
15
the administration when we were looking for somebody to take
16
over Jane Dannenhauer's job, and like I said, I had gone to
17
Bill Kennedy proposing Jackie Dinwiddie as a candidate, and
18
I thought why not.
19
Mr. Larkin. A Democrat.
20
Mr. Sculimbrene. Here is a Democrat who worked on the
21
campaign, worked on the transition, honest, you know,
22
trustworthy The Bureau had worked with her in the past.
425
23
Perfect candidate, but do they pick her? No.
24
Mr. Larkin. You know. under what circumstances did
jam
62
1
Mr. Sculimbrene. It could have possibly been during
2
the conversation when I went to Bill Kennedy to talk to him
3
about, you know, an employee or maybe during Bill Kennedy's
4
own background investigation when I went to interview him
5
about his own case, but I did have a number of interviews
6
with you know, here is the standard practice up there.
7
You know, you go in and you do your job, and then, you
8
know, like everything else, well, what did you do this
9
weekend, you know, and we lapsed into personal, private
10
conversations, and that'is what happened to that is when
11
the subject of Jackie Dinwiddie came up. That is when I
12
interjected my belief that it would help the administration,
13
it would help the FBI to have an employee who had previous
14
experience there, and certainly she had the credentials for
15
the job, but I was told by Kennedy that he was stuck with
16
Livingstone and that was the end of it.
17
Mr. Yoo. How did he refer to Mrs. Clinton in your
18
conversation?
19
Mr. Sculimbrene. How did he refer to her?
20
Mr. Yoo. Yes.
21
Mr. Sculimbrene. Do you mean like what words did he
22
use? Whatever he said, I took it to mean the First Lady.
23
Mr. Yoo. Okay.
426
24
Mr. Sculimbrene. The First Lady or Hillarys
Mt
Yor
jam
63
1
had to be that he was stuck with Craig because of his
2
connection to the First Lady, do you remember the exact
3
words he might have used?
4
Mr. Sculimbrene. No. Like I said, the only word that
5
really sticks out in my mind is the word "stuck."
6
Now, mind you, whether it is true or not, I mean, I
7
don't know for a fact. I don't know whether for a fact that
8
Craig Livingstone's mother- - for all I know, Craig
9
Livingstone may have told him that and he believed him.
10
Mr. Larkin. Your recollection is it had something to
11
do with Craig's mother?
12
Mr. Sculimbrene. Mother, yes.
13
Mr. Larkin. Okay.
14
Mr. Hubbard. Now, when Mr. Kennedy made this
15
statement, did he use either the name "Hillary Clinton" or
16
"Hillary Rodham Clinton" of "the First Lady"? Did he
17
designate her or did you infer from what he said that he was
18
referring to Hillary?
19
Mr. Sculimbrene. Perhaps I inferred that he was
20
talking about the First Lady, but I think I was correct in
21
my inference.
22
Mr. Hubbard. And on what basis would you say that?
23
Mr. Sculimbrene. Well, why would he keep why would he
24
keep this person here that I don't think he personally
127
hought have
jam
64
1
He knew - he knew of his he knew of the problems in his
2
background investigation. He asked me when I kind of
3
refused to answer the question whether he should be hired
4
there, and then when I tried to supply a new person, it
5
seemed to me like - here, I will lay it right on his lap.
6
Here is the perfect person to solve your problems, and the
7
answer to that is, well, I really can't do it because you
8
know who wants him there. Now, that is an inference. That
9
is an inference.
10
Mr. Larkin. Did Craig ever make any reference to the
11
fact of how he came there?
12
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes. Now, Craig did tell me that his
13
mother
14
Mr. Larkin. Was what?
15
Mr. Sculimbrene. knew Hillary Clinton.
16
Mr. Larkin. He said-
17
Mr. Sculimbrene. Yes, he did tell me that, but Craig
18
told me several things that were not true.
19
Mr. Hubbard. Such as?
20
Mr. Yoo. Do you remember when he said that?
21
Mr. Sculimbrene. I don' - I am getting at the gray
22
area here now.
23
Ms. Owens. No, nQ. You are fine there. If I lean
24
forward, 11 is because he had mentioned derogatory in
428
HILL and
1.1111
65
1
about that reflects the results of an investigation when he
2
said that there was derogatory, and I would just assume
3
Mr. Larkin. And we will, like, strike that, okay, for
4
the record.
5
Ms. Owens. That was the only area I had concern in,
6
and they have been very good about the leading things or
7
problematic.
8
Mr. Larkin. We are trying. We are trying.
9
Mr. Hubbard. Can I follow up on this?
10
Mr. Yoo. What day'did--do you remember when Mr.
11
Livingstone made that comment to you about her mother?
12
Mr. Sculimbrene. This was during my several interviews
13
with him in the process of doing his background
14
investigation.
15
Mr. Hubbard. You said that he told you several things
16
that you now know to be untrue. Can you tell us what they
17
are?
18
Mr. Sculimbrene. Mr. Livingstone or Mr. Kennedy?
19
Mr. Hubbard. Mr. Livingstone.
20
Mr. Sculimbrene. Well, we are going to get into
21
Ms. Owens. Are they in connection with the background
22
investigation when he was interviewed?
23
Mr. Sculimbrene Yes
24
Mr Larkin. We will pass
429
MI Yoo Can ask JUST one or 1.WO
The Washington Post
The Trouble
Isn't With
Free
The FBI
The July 31 editorial "A Troubling
Question for the FBI" picks up on a crafty
The editorial "A Troubling Question for
theme first advanced by White House
the FBI" was troubling for me. too. 1 am
Counsel Jack Quinn in his recent letter to
disturbed that your paper would attempt to
FBI Director Louis Freeh Quinn asserts
impugn the integrity of FBI agents simply
that the report of Special Agent Dennis
because FBI agent Dennis-Sculimbrene's
For All
Sculimbrene's 1993 interview of Bernard
three-year-old notes of a Bernard Nuss-
Nussbaum in connection with the back-
baum interview now conflict with Nuss-
ground investigation of Craig Livingstone
term's recent denials that he ever made
is false because Nussbaum has declared it
the statements contained in the notes. I am
to be false. Having declared the report to
particularly dismayed that you then try to
be false, Quino next tries to undermine
couple agent Sculimbrene's "questionable"
the credibility of Sculimbrene by attempt-
Cm your mind) report with the reprebensi
ing to link him to the aberrant conduct of
ble conduct of ex-agent Gary Harks
former FBI special agent Gary Harlow.
about guilt by (alleged) association
Why does your paper fall victim to this
According to news reports
White House spin control The fact that
brene interviewed Nussbaum in the
Nusshaum denies making such a state-
of 1993, at the very beginning of the new
ment does not make Sculimbrene's report
administration, concerning Craig Living-
false. Nor can any inference fairly be
stone's suitability. for White House em-
drawn about Sculimbrene's character
ployment. Having done my share of back-
from the conduct of an errant agent.
ground investigations during the past 25
Agent Sculimbrene had no motivation
years, I am aware of the procedures that
to falsify this information, and he has made
no doubt were followed. During the inter-
THE WASHINGTON POST
DO claim as to its truth or falsity-only
view, I'm sure, Sculimbrene took written
that it was accurately reported Indeed, he
notes of what Nussbaum said. These notes
SATURDAY. AUGUST 10, 1996
has no independent recollection today. of
later were reduced to a typed report and
the interview. The subject matter of the
both were placed in an investigative file.
interview was routine and unremarkable.
At that time, the interview would have
It simply was one of many interviews
been characterized as routine and unre-
conducted more than three years ago, and
markable.
it has taken on importance only in hind-
Now, however, solely because Nuss-
sight Moreover, Sculimbrene would not
baum has told Congress under oath that
have had the opportunity to change it later
be never discussed Livingstone with Hilla-
on. Once be prepared the interview re-
ry Chnton and because Nussbaum has
port, it was transmitted to the FBI SPIN
issued a statement denying be had made
unit pursuant to standard procedures, and
remarks attributed to him by agent Sco-
be would not come into contact with it
limbress, you charge that "the accuracy of
again.
Agent Scufimbrene's report, therefore, is
Sculimbrene was supportive of the Clin-
in question and raises a major concern."
ton administration and wanted to see it
The implication is. clear. It is also in
succeed. Also, the administration, at least
error and backward.
until recently, apparently thought well of
Sculimbrene's notes and report were
Sculimbrene. In October 1995. the Office
prepared and preserved more than three
of Presidential Personnel submitted Sq
years ago, at the time of the interview and
limbrene's name to the Department of
in the normal course of business. On the
Veterans Affairs as a candidate for the
other hand, Nussbaum's recent denials
inspector general position at the depart-
made under the scrutiny of congressic
ment Also, in March 1996, m connection
inquiries and independent counsel K
with a routine FBI inspection of the White
neth Starr's criminal investigation, Wt.
House Lizison operations, attorneys in' the
may implicate not only Nussbaum tan
counsel's office were interviewed, and no
other White House associates. And in
complaints were registered. On March 31,
this the same Bernard Nussbaum who
1996, Sculimbrene received an exception-
successfully held both the Justice Depart
al performance rating from the FBL
ment and the U.S. Park: Police at bayio
While there is always the risk of an FBI
while be and other White House staffers
agent gone bad, as in the case of Gary
rummaged through Vincent Foster's of-
Harlow, this is a rare occurrence. Of
fice during the hours after his death,
greater concern is the possibility of pro-
looking for, well, whatever they were
spective government appointees and em-
looking for?
ployees misleading investigators during
I too find the "specter of an FBI agent
the background process. Indeed, accord-
reporting a conversation that never took
ing to published accounts, this administra-
place" chilling. I also find your not-too-
tion is DO stranger to this problem.
subtle invitation to link the criminal con-
Dennis Sculimbrene has performed his,
duct of ex-agent Harlow with your un-
duties for more than 24 years in an
founded concerns about Sculimbrene to be
exemplary fashion. To attempt to tar him
nothing more than a poorly disguised
and the other good men and women of the
smear. Agent Sculimbrene deserved
FBI with the Harlow brush is contempt-
more.
able on the part of the White House and &
-Thomas F. Becker
disservice to your readers, The brony here
is that it was Sculimbrene who helped
The writer is executive vice president
sound the bell on Harlow.
of the FBI Agents Association.
Richard A. Hauser
The writer is counsel for
Dennis Scutimbrene
431
October 28,1995
WADE PLUNKETT
Presidential Personnel
old Executive Office Building
Washington, D. C.
Mr. Plunkett,
Please review my resume and place my name in
consideration for Inspector General for the Veteran's
Administration.
More than ever, declining resources demands that all
money appropriated for the benefit of the Veteran goes to the
Veteran. If chosen for this position, I would take the oath of
office as a sacred trust between myself and all my fellow
citizens who served their country in uniform.
I can personally identify with the disabled veteran.
Two years ago, I suffered a traumatic head injury and struggled
for 2 year to return to a normal life. The experience of being
handicapped, if only temporarily, provided me with an opportunity
to 500 the value of rchabilitation programs.
Stealing moncy from Veterans is analogous to stealing
from a church poor box. It is a crime beyond reproach, no matter
the cum taken. Taking assets away from Veteran's programs is
theft beyond reproach.
As a young agent in Buffalo New York, I had the
practical experience of working with the Veteran's Hospital. The
Director at the time complained that it seemed the hospital was
buying linens for the whole city. I uncovered an operation
within the hospital that was selling the linens door to door. The
final outcome of this matter involved a compromise that left me
without any convictions for the guilty. The individuals involved
were activity. allowed to remain, as long as they promised to stop their
As the Inspector General for Veterans Administration, I would not
have tolerated such a lukewarm decision.
M-Denus Sincerely yours,
M. Dennis Sculimbrene
432
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DOCUMENT NO.
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AND TYPE
001. resume
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COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Counsel Office
Shelli Peterson
OA/Box Number: 16434
FOLDER TITLE:
Sculimbrene Docs [1]
2014-0469-F
jm1545
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
PI National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office |(a)(2) of the PRAJ
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute |(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRAJ
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
h(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRAJ
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions ((b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
h(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
X. DENNIS SCULIMBRENE
15211 Haymarket Drive
Haymarket, Va. 22069
703-754-4265
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
1973 - 1995
Currently Senior Special Agent Assigned to white House
for investigations of Presidential Appointees.
Made Policy and Format improvements regarding
Background Investigations which improved quality and
timeliness of Reports to the White House.
Capital Hill Liaison. (1984-1986).
Anti-Hijack and Surveillance Pilot (1973-1986)
Organized Crime and Violent Crime: (1973-1977)
FORMER EXPERIENCE
LINK-BELT, Philadelphia, Pa.
1970 - 1973
Industrial Sales Manager for Western Pennsylvania, West
Virginia and Eastern Ohio area, Was youngest Manager.
USAF Reserve, Greater Pittsburgh Airport
1973 - 1973
Aircraft Commander C-123K (Week-End Warrior)
USAF Active Duty
1965 - 1970
Aircraft Commander KC-/EC-135 Strategic Air Command.
Combat and Reconnaissance Combat Tours in SEA
Air Medal, advanced promotion to permanent Captain.
EDUCATION
DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY
BA History/Journalism
1961-1965
Air Force ROTC Commission
Formal Military, Business and Federal Training Programs.
PERSONAL
(b)(6)
[ 001]
Married since 1966. Father of two grown sons.
GOALS AFTER RETIREMENT FROM FBI
Utilize my demonstrated honest and independent
investigative experience.
423
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DATE
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AND TYPE
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Heyward Bannister to Jesse Brown re: Inspector General (Non-
06/18/1996
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COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Counsel Office
Shelli Peterson
OA/Box Number: 16434
FOLDER TITLE:
Sculimbrene Docs [1]
2014-0469-F
jm1545
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRAJ
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRAJ
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute |(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRAJ
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
re SF-86
# or
TYES
C
(m)
THE
X-2887
M. DENNIS SCULIMBRENE
SPECIAL AGENT
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
WASHINGTON FIELD OFFICE
WASHINGTON, D.C.
(202) 252-7801
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 25, 1996
BY TELECOPY
Louis J. Freeh
Director
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Dear Director Freeh:
As you may know, Congressman Clinger today divulged, on
the House floor, an interview report from a confidential FBI
background investigation that has been declared to be false by
the person who was interviewed. I am writing to you to ask how
we can work together to ensure continued public confidence in the
accuracy of FBI investigations.
According to Mr. Clinger's statement today, the
background investigation file on Mr. Craig Livingstone includes a
report by Agent Dennis Sculimbrene on a conversation he says he
had with White House Counsel Bernard Nussbaum concerning Mr.
Livingstone's hiring. But, according to a statement issued by
Mr. Nussbaum today, that conversation never took place.
This Administration and the American people have
enormous confidence in the FBI, for good reason. And, the role
that the agency plays in conducting background investigations and
helping to ensure the suitability of appointees for their posts
cannot be overstated. The President, you and the American people
have a large stake indeed in the fairness and accuracy of this
process.
That is why we are troubled, as we know you must be, by
the implication that an FBI background investigation might
include a false report. This matter is especially worrisome
coming as it does on the heels of published reports of the
conviction of one of the agents who did background checks at the
White House on charges of falsifying at least 50 interviews that
he claimed to have conducted.
It is equally troubling that a Member of Congress can
publicly reveal confidential FBI information, whether for
partisan purposes or otherwise. It should not escape notice that
this is done at a time when Members of Congress have expressed
worry that employees of the executive branch might have sought
out confidential FBI information about certain individuals and
439
planned to somehow use it publicly. While that charge has never
been established against anyone in the executive branch, we now
witness the same objectionable behavior by the very people who
professed to be the guardians of privacy.
It is important that we take steps to ensure continuing
confidence in the confidentiality and the integrity of the FBI
clearance process. I look forward to your suggestions as to how
we can work with you to that end.
Best regards,
Sincerely,
Jane Quinn to the Qui President
Attachment
440
CGE 054231
FACT SHEET
Sculimbrene's allegations have been disputed by all parties:
Mrs. Gloria Livingstone states: "I do not know Hillary Rodham Clinton, I
have never met Mrs. Clinton, and I have never spoken with Mrs. Clinton. We
are not, and never have been, personal friends." [Statement of Mrs. Gloria
Livingstone, 7/25/96]
Mr. Bernard Nussbaum states: "I never told FBI Agent Sculimbrene, or
anyone else, that the First Lady recommended Craig Livingstone for his
position in the White House or that the First Lady knew Livingstone's
mother." [Statement of Mr. Bernard Nussbaum, 7/25/96]
Mrs. Clinton has stated: "I did not know his mother. I did not know him.
I did not have anything to do with his being hired." [First Lady Hillary
Rodham Clinton's statement in Helsinki, Finland on 7/10/96]
Mr. Bill Kennedy has stated: "I have never had any discussion with Mrs.
Clinton about Mr. Livingstone. No one else ever told me that Mrs. Clinton
had any interest whatsoever in Mr. Livingstone or his position." [Statement of
William H. Kennedy, 6/29/96]
Mr. Craig Livingstone has stated: "I've asked my mother and she, for the
record, says that she has never met Mrs. Clinton." [Livingstone testimony
before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 6/28/96]
Dennis Sculimbrene has offered differing accounts of the story involving Mrs. Clinton
and Mrs. Livingstone:
"According to Mr. Sculimbrene, both Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Livingstone told
him that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew Mrs. Clinton, which seemed to
explain his standing. However, Mr. Sculimbrene said he has no independent
knowledge of whether the two women actually knew one another and
suggested that Mr. Livingstone may have made it up in an attempt to inflate
his status or protect his job." [Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96]
Q: Now, you said Craig Livingstone had this job because who wanted him to
have the job?
Sculimbrene: Mrs. Clinton is apparently a friend of Craig's mother.
441
Q: Mrs. Clinton is a friend of Craig's mother?
CGE 055258
Sculimbrene: Yes. And that is why Bill Kennedy told me he was stuck with
Craig.
Q: Let me ask you, though, do you have any--do you remember any
conversations where you were told that Mr. Livingstone got that job because
he was connected with Mrs. Clinton?
Sculimbrene: Yes. Kennedy told me that.
[Sculimbrene Interview before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 6/19/96]
Sculimbrene's FBI interview report states that Mr. Bernard Nussbaum was the
individual who informed him (Sculimbrene) that Mr. Livingstone received his
job because of a pre-existing relationship between Mrs. Livingstone and Mrs.
Clinton.
According to a news account, FBI agent David Bowie, who worked with
Sculimbrene, wrote in an August, 1995 memo that Sculimbrene had "very bitter
political feelings against the White House." Bowie further accused Sculimbrene of
"irrational" behavior. [The Washington Post, 6/28/96]
Sculimbrene is involved in an employment dispute with the FBI, alleging he was
discriminated against because of his handicap. (Sculimbrene suffered a severe head
injury after being hit by a propeller.) Sculimbrene has been quoted by another FBI
agent as saying, "he could get away with anything" because he was disabled. [The
Washington Post, 6/29/96]
In a news account, Sculimbrene stated the FBI was seeking retribution for his
testimony in the Dale trial. (Sculimbrene testified on behalf of Billy Ray Dale at
Dale's trial for embezzlement in November of 1995.) [Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96]
Numerous issues regarding the propriety of the actions of other FBI agents assigned
to the Clinton White House have arisen over the last few years. the FBI post at
the White House has also been the subject of considerable controversy, particularly
during the Clinton administration." [The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
"One of the agents who helped with White House background checks in 1994
and 1995, Halbert Gary Harlow, was charged and eventually convicted last
year of falsifying at least 50 interviews that he claimed to have conducted."
[The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
Former FBI agent Gary Aldrich published a book on the Clinton White House
which featured wild, unsubstantiated rumors. The book was widely criticized
for making public raw FBI data. Aldrich "published his account without
442
completing a required FBI review process. [The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
CGE 055259
16 96 17:50 FROM:
TO: 65055
PAGE 02
FIRST LADY HILLARY CLINTON Q AND A'S IN BUCHAREST, ROMANIA
MONDAY, JULY 1, 1996
0 from AP: Before we get too far along with our wonderful
Romanian visit, I want to clear up just on thing hanging over
Washington. Did you or to your knowledge, did Vince Foster have
anything to do with the hiring of Craig Livingstone?
A from HRC: I don't know anything about it, I know I didn't.
0 from AP: Do you have any reason to believe that Vince Foster
did?
A from HRC: I have no reason to believe that.
or from AP: Is there any connection between your mother and Craig
Livingstone's mother. Which is something the FBI agent is
claiming.
A from HRC: The "ex FBI Agent"? No there is no connection. I
do believe, if I ever meet the woman I'm going to say "Mrs.
Livingstone I presume."
FIRST LADY DISCUSSION WITH TRAVELING PRESS
HELSINKI, FINLAND
JULY 10, 1996
8 from ABC: I need to follow-up on one of Ron's questions. When
did you first meet Craig Livingstone? When did you become aware
that you knew him?
A from HRC: Gee, I don't have any idea. I don't recall meeting
him for the first couple of years we were in the White House. I
just don't know him. I have met him since then, but my best
memory is sometime within the last year is the first time I ever
put a face and a name together.
or from AP: I really don't want to belabor this, but did I
understand you on the Livingstone question, that you don't really
have a memory of knowing him until this all happened?
A from HRC: Ron, I did not know his mother. I did not know him.
I did not have anything to do with his being hired. And, I do
not remember even meeting him until sometime in the last year.
So, it does not mean I did not run into him. It does not mean
that I did not shake his hand in a receiving line. All that
could have happened. But, in terms of any connection with this
443
young man or any kind of relationship with him, there was none.
POST:
ANGRY IN TONE AND LACED
WITH UNDOCUMENTED ALLEGATIONS"
Ex-FBI Agent: First Lady
CGE 055268
Wanted Livingstone on Staff
FILES, From A0
sold The Inquiry to also directed at
Aldrich recounted meetings with
Sculimbrene's allegation that his FBI
Kermedy and which late White House
Angeles police officer Stocey C. Room
supervisors retailated against him for
deputy counsel Vancent Foster on the
and the National Rifle Association's
testifying as a defense witness in the
'It's a Done Deal,' Counsel Allegedly. Said
security problems. and said be told
executive vice prevident, Wayne
trial of fired White House travel chief
Foster the FBI had found character
LaPierre Jr. Fabiant and publication
Billy R. Date. Dale was sequitted of
questions among staff members "II
bf the Aldrich book & a political act
point. but It doesn't malter. It's a
émberziement durines,
the highest levels" of the White
By George Lardner Jr.
with sero credibility."
-Sentambrene has said be now re-
done deal. Hillsry wants him.'
House.
and Pierre Thomas
Earber this month, Akrich wrote a
of - Plane Staff -
The embattled Livingatone an-
ports to the FBI offices in Tysons
At one polot. Aktrich mote, be and
short article for the Wall Street four
Corner, where be has "no work, DO
nounced his resignation Wednesday
Livingstone discussed the serious se
nal's editorial page. It alleged that
^ former FBI agent assigned to
assignments." la an August 1995
st a House hearing after A drumlire
permanent White House employees
curity problems, including staff roem-
the White House says he was told
memo, David Bowle, snother FBI
of criticism over his office's improper
bere who should have been fired be-
suspected of disloyalty were in for
that Craig Livingstone was named
collection of sensitive FBI back-
egent who worked a the Date case,
"special" attention, Hilary Chotos
cause of their backgrounds and the
181
bend of personnel security despite a
told FBI higher-ups that Schlimbrene
ground reports on bundreds of Re-
style"-soch as new background to
lack of cooperation from other White
questionable background because
has "very bitter political feelings
publicans from past administrations.
vestigations before they were due.
House staff members in EYED submit-
Rillary wants him."
against the White House" and ac-
One of the biggest mysteries left at
As FBI agent be worked with M.
ting to FBI Interviews. Uringstone,
Writing in a new book, "Unlimited
cused hing of "Ightional" behavior.
the bearing was the question of who
Dentis Sculembrene, has illeged that
wrote Aldrich, said Kennedy under-
B His book, Aldrich said the new
Access FBI Agent Inside the
had hired Livingstone, a longtime po-
White House political operatives
stood the problems but refused to
Clinton White House," the ageat,
fitical advance man with no back-
Claston White House used temporary
deal with them
puriped him for information con-
28, 1996
Cary Aldrich, said then-essociste
passes for many months to get
ground in security Issues.
taived in confidential FBI background
The two men decided to go to
White House counsel William FL Keo-
around the need to provide the Se-
Aktrich was assigned to the White
files in an effort to root out career
higher-ups about the security prob.
cret Service with FBI blackgrpund to
nedy ni told him in early 1993 that
House to conduct background investi-
employees and replace them with
leth, according to Aktrich He wrote
parts for permanent passes,
first lady Hillary Rodharn Clintos
gations for five years until be retired
Clinted supporters.
that be assumed they would discuss h
The White House counsels office
wanted Livingstone in the job.
in June 1995. Angry in tope and laced
Those charges have led to an b.
with then-White House counsel Ber-
tightened security procedures in ear-
Kennedy, Addrich wrote, asked
with undocumented allegations, his
terml FBI Investigation. The probe is
and Nussbaum. "Craig looked at me
by 1994 after a review concluded that
FINAL
hire what the FBI thought of Living-
book was published by a conservative
focused 00 Aldrich's contentions that
like I didn't have a brain. Numbeurn?
more than 100 employees were at
stone 13 1 replacement for 3 longtime
bouse, Regnery Publishing Co. It was
be told bis supervisor, James Bourke,
howed to work fat months without
It's net Nussbann we gotta talk to
reterm and in particular what the
immediately decounced by the White
that the security system at the White
We'D be balking to Hiltary.'
routine background investigations.
FBI would think if there were charac-
House.
House had been relaxed où those by-
Livingstone never mentioned the
White House officials schoowledged
ter Issues in his background."
"On Its face, this is trash for right-
al to the Clintries could erade back
then that some White House staffers
meeting with Hillary Clinton again.
"I responded gingerly, saying It
wing cash," said White House spokes
ground checks. If Bourks was tware
and it never came off, Aldrich wrote
were found to have troublesome per-
was 2 post that should be filled with
man Mark Fabiant Regnery, be said,
of such-matters, the FBI Inspections
sonal problems when the Idag-de-
Staff writers Summ Schmidt a and
someone equeaky cleari, before Keo-
has published books by former Los
will thy to determine what, if any-
byed investigations were fmally bow-
Jim McGa and researchet Nathan
nedy cut me oft 1 goess I see your
Gee FILES, A7, Ool 1
thing, be did about them, sources
pleted
Abse coritributed to this report
CONSERVATIVE
HOUSE: PUBLISHING BOOKS BY STACY KOON, WAYNE LAPIERRE
Page 3
5TH STORY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright 1996 The Washington Post
The Washington Post
June 29, 1996, Saturday, Final Edition
SECTION: A SECTION; Pg. A14
LENGTH: 857 words
HEADLINE: Aldrich Despised Clintons, Colleagues Say; Former FBI Agent at White
House Was 'Cozy With Bush Staff'
BYLINE: Serge F. Kovaleski; Pierre Thomas, Washington Post Staff Writers
BODY:
To a number of his peers, was a competent FBI agent with strong conservative
convictions who felt a kinship with the Bush administration and was openly
disgusted when Bill Clinton captured the Oval Office.
"He was very cozy with most of the Bush staff," said an FBI agent who knows
Aldrich and spoke on the condition of anonymity. There is "no doubt he has a
phenomenal bias" against the Clintons.
"He was almost personally offended that the Clintons had won, and made no
secret of that," the agent said. After Clinton was elected president, the agent
said, Aldrich remarked, "I've never seen so many ponytailed, 50-year-old men in
my life."
Aldrich, a 26-year veteran of the FBI, retired last year because, he has
suggested, his experience in the Clinton White House soured him-on the bureau.
He had spent the last five years of his career as one of two FBI agents assigned
to the White House, where he was responsible for conducting background
investigations on White House personnel.
In his controversial new book, "Unlimited Access: an FBI Agent Inside the
Clinton White House," Aldrich described his post as an elite assignment that
afforded him the unique opportunity to look out the window and see "a king or a
queen visiting the president "
But the FBI post at the White House has also been the subject of considerable
controversy, particularly during the Clinton administration. One of the agents
who helped with White House background checks in 1994 and 1995, Halbert Gary
Harlow, was charged and eventually convicted last year of falsifying at least 50
interviews that he claimed to have conducted.
Aldrich was assigned to full-time duty at the White House with agent Dennis
Sculimbrene, who almost lost his life in a 1995 accident, and has been quoted by
another FBI agent as saying "he could get away with anything" because he was
disabled. Sculimbrene is involved in a legal dispute with the FBI over his work
assignments. He alleges he is being discriminated against because of his
445
disability.
CGE 055269
Page 4
The Washington Post, June 29, 1996
The FBI response to the allegations raised in Aldrich's book was a terse,
two-paragraph statement saying that Aldrich had published his account without
completing a required bureau review process.
As a condition of FBI employment, all employees and former employees are
required to submit for review any publications that "could have been based on
knowledge gained as a result of their employment," the FBI release said. "The
purpose of this review is to ensure the integrity of the investigative or other
official information employees learn as part of their official duties."
Jay Stephens, Aldrich's lawyer and former Republican U.S. attorney for
Washington, said yesterday that over the last six months he and his client had
worked closely with the FBI to address any concerns the agency may have about
the manuscript.
"We substantially met all their concerns except for a couple of very limited
passages that have become moot as a result of the hearings into problems in
security clearances at the White House,' Stephens said.
However, a senior bureau official disputed Stephens's account, saying that
substantial issues remained unresolved before the book's publication.
Some senior bureau officials yesterday appeared caught in the position of
trying to respond to a book with some credible allegations and other claims they.
considered undocumented rumor.
"Are we outraged by this behavior?" asked one senior bureau official. "Of
course we are." But the official said that the bureau hasn't decided what to do
about the book and noted that Aldrich does have First Amendment rights.
Should it decide to take action against Aldrich for publishing before the
review process was completed, the bureau's only option is to pursue civil
litigation to control profits of the book, said one source.
Upon first receiving the book, the FBI forwarded it to its Office
Professional Responsibility as a part of routine procedure. Thus far the bureau
has not been able to secure documents to substantiate Aldrich's claims about
security procedures at the White House, sources said.
Aldrich first surfaced publicly two weeks ago, just after the controversy
erupted over the White House's improper receipt of hundreds of FBI files, when
he published an op-ed piece assailing the Clinton administration in the Wall
Street Journal. In it, he accused the White House of thwarting security and
background checks. He made no mention of the upcoming book.
The book describes the early Clinton White House as being in complete
disarray, rife with staff members who had once been drug abusers, suffering from
lax security clearance procedures and targeting employees that it wanted fired
to make room for individuals who were viewed as loyal to the Clintons. He also
claimed that the FBI ignored repeated complaints that the Clinton administration
was allowing staff members to go long periods of time without permanent White
House passes.
FBI sources said they had not yet been able to find any record of the
446
complaints Aldrich said he had lodged.
CGF 055279
Page 5
The Washington Post, June 29, 1996
Staff writer Jim McGee contributed to this report.
LANGUAGE: ENGLISH
LOAD-DATE: June 29, 1996
CGE 055271
447
FACT SHEET
Dennis Sculimbrene has offered differing accounts of the
story involving Mrs. Clinton and Mrs. Livingstone:
1)
"According to Mr. Sculimbrene, both Mr. Kennedy and Mr.
Livingstone told him that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew
Mrs. Clinton, which seemed to explain his standing.
However, Mr. Sculimbrene said he has no independent
knowledge of whether the two women actually knew one
another and suggested that Mr. Livingstone may have
made it up in an attempt to inflate his status or
protect his job." Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96
2)
Sculimbrene is now reporting that Mr. Bernard Nussbaum
was the individual who informed him that Mr.
Livingstone received his job because of a pre-existing
relationship between Mrs. Livingstone and Mrs. Clinton.
CGE 055272
448
Former Top FBI Agent at White House
WSJ
Raises Questions About Security Office
6/25/96
By . WALL STREET JOURNAL staff Reporter
In 1993. he thought he had a good
WASHINGTON - An FBI agent who
candidate, Jackle Dinwiddle, who worked
was. until two months ago, the top FBI
agent working In the White House, has
in the security office during the Carter
raised new questions about the White
administration. However, when be
House's personnel security office and Hs
brought the Idea to then-deputy White
director, Craig Livingstone.
House counsel William Kennedy-who has
FBI agent Dennts Scullmbrene, who
since resigned - be says Mr. Kennedy told
was recently transferred from the White
him that he was stuck with Mr. Living-
House to FBI's Washington field office. has
stone. Mr. Sculimbrene told investigators
told investigators for the Senate Judiciary
that Mr. Kennedy knew there were prob-
Committee that he raised complaints with
lems la Mr. Livingstone's own background
his superiors about the chaotic manage-
Investigation. and another person familiar
ment of the personnel security office two
with the matter confirms this. Mr. Ken-
years ago and that he also had suggested
that the office be run in a non-political
nedy and his lawyer didn't respond to.
manner. But Mr. Livingstone's hold on the
requests for comment.
job was secure because, the FBI agent said
According to Mr. Scullmbrene, both
be was told, Mr. Livingstone's mother
Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Livingstone told him
knew First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton.
that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew Mrs.
A White House spokeswoman and a
Clinton. which seemed to explain his
Lawyer for Mr. Livingstone both deny that
standing. However, Mr. Scullmbrene said
Mrs. Clinton knows Mr. Livingstone's
be has no Independent knowledge of
mother. Mr. Scullmbrene doesn't know
why he was transferred from his post at the
whether the two women actually knew one
White House. He is currently embrolled in
another and suggested that Mr. Living
a legal dispute with the Federal Bureau of
stone may have made It up in an attempt to
Investigation over work assignments.
Inflate his status or protect his job. An-
During an unsworn Interview Wednes-
other person who worked with Mr. Living-
daywith the staff of the Senate Judiciary
stone confirms that Mr. Livingstone
Committee, Mr. Scullmbrene alleged that
boasted of ties between his mother and
Mr. Livingstone had some problems in his
Mrs. Clinton
background and had said some untrue
'An Absolute Fabrication'
things to the FBI when he underwent an
Mr. Cohen, Mr. Livingstone's jawyer.
Investigation for security clearance. He
called this account "an absolute fabrica-
didn't tell investigators what the alleged
tion." White House officials said that Mr.
problems in Mr. Livingstone's background
Kennedy has denied telling Mr. Sculim-
or untrue statements were. Despite having
brene of any connection between Mrs.
no background In law enforcement, Mr.
Clinton and Mr. Livingstone's mother.
Livingstone was given the job and ap-
Jane Sherburne, White House special
proved for security clearance.
counsel, said Mrs. Clinton denies knowing
Mr. Livingstone and an assistant Im-
Mrs. Livingstone.
property obtained FBI flles on more than
400 people, including many Republicans.
Although Mr. Scullmbrene says his
Congressional Investigators and Indepen-
performance has been consistently rated
dent Counsel Kenneth Starr are trying to
as exceptional by the FBI. Senate Investi-
determine whether the two men made an
gators questioned him about events that
Innocent mistake or were seeking to dig up
could color his version of events. The FBI
dirt on political opponents. in private Inter
agent sustained a severe head Injury two
views with congressional investigators.
years ago that left him partly disabled.
Messrs. Livingstone and the assistant,
Anthony Marceca. have said that the files
although he has returned to work. He
were requested accidentally and weren't
is pursuing a discrimination complaint
misused.
against the FBI. claiming he has been
Mr. Livingstone, who is on leave from
ordered to do work that contradicts his
the White House post. referred questions to
physician's recommendations. He said he
his attorneys. Mr. Livingstone's lawyer,
Is also under Investigation for allegedly
David Cohen. declined to discuss the back-
giving his son his government parking
ground Investigation of Mr. Livingstone.
pass.
"Background Investigations are private
Mr. Sculimbrene also said he worries
matters," he said.
that he may be suffering retribution from
superiors because he testified on behalf of
Slow Clearance Process
former travel office director Billy Dale at
Mr. Scullmbrene. who worked at the
Mr. Date's embezziement trial last year.
White House for & decade and has con-
Mr. Dale was acquitted. The firing of Mr.
ducted numerous background probes of
Date and the rest of the travel office in 1993
presidential appointees. described his ex-
led to a congressional Inquiry and eventu-
perience with the Clinton administration
ally to the disclosure that the White House
In a two-hour Interview with Senate Inves-
had Improperty obtained Mr. Date's FBI
ligators. The security office problems
file. along with more than 400 others.
started early In the Clinton White House.
Questions also were raised yesterday
Mr. Scullmbrene said. The clearance pro-
about whether Messrs. Livingstone and
cess was moving very slowly. and many
Marceca also collected confidential Inter
people were walking around the complex
nal Revenue Service data. According to a
without proper passes. he said. Mr. Scu-
letter sent yesterday by Sen. Charles
limbrene and another FBI agent at the
Grassley, an lows Republican. to FBI
White House. Gary Aldrich, repeatedly
Director Louis Freeh. a box of documents
complained to their superiors about prob-
removed from Mr. Livingstone's office by
lems. and at one point Mr. Scullmbrene
the FBI contained a folder full of papers
said he suggested turning over the security
bearing the IRS logo. Sen. Grassley asked
office to a professional rather than a
the FBI director to describe what sort of
political appointees
documents are in the folder.
CGE 055273
JCS
STATEMENT
Mark Fabiani
Special Associate Counsel to the President
July 25, 1996
Today Representative William Clinger, hiding behind the
legal fig leaf of the Speech or Debate Clause, took the
extraordinary step of divulging on the House floor highly
confidential and completely false information from an FBI
background investigation.
Congressman Clinger has failed utterly to prove that the
White House ever improperly released any private information from
FBI files. Thus, today's astonishing speech by Mr. Clinger
represents the first and only disclosure of confidential FBI
background information during this entire matter.
What is worse, Congressman Clinger divulged confidential
information that is clearly false and that originates from a
questionable source. Bernard Nussbaum has said that the alleged
conversation between Mr. Nussbaum and FBI Agent Dennis
Sculimbrene never took place. Mrs. Livingstone has said that she
does not know the First Lady and has never even met or spoken
with Mrs. Clinton. And the First Lady has said that she does not
know Mrs. Livingstone.
1
CGE 054199
In addition, Mr. Clinger surely knows that, according to a
published report, an FBI agent informed his superiors that Agent
Sculimbrene harbored "very bitter political feelings against the
White House." This same FBI agent also charged Agent Sculimbrene
with "irrational" behavior. (Washington Post, June 28, 1996.)
Yet other published reports indicate that Agent Sculimbrene is
involved in a continuing dispute with the FBI regarding his work
assignments. And, in recent weeks another FBI agent who had been
assigned to the White House and worked with Agent Sculimbrene
published a book containing wild rumors and rank innuendo; that
book was thoroughly and completely discredited.
Nonetheless, Representative Clinger took to the House floor
and divulged false information from a confidential FBI report in
a desperate attempt to grab attention for his faltering
"investigation." Mr. Clinger's speech today will be seen by most
Americans as a reckless, partisan act.
2
CGE 054200
FACT SHEET
Sculimbrene's allegations have been disputed by all parties:
Mrs. Livingstone states: "I do not know Hillary Rodham Clinton, I have
never met Mrs. Clinton, and I have never spoken with Mrs. Clinton. We are
not, and never have been, personal friends." [Statement of Mrs. Gloria
Livingstone, 7/25/96]
Mr. Nussbaum states: "I never told FBI Agent Sculimbrene, or anyone else,
that the First Lady recommended Craig Livingstone for his position in the
White House or that the First Lady knew Livingstone's mother." [Statement of
Mr. Bernard Nussbaum, 7/25/96]
Mrs. Clinton has stated: "I did not know his mother. I did not know him.
I did not have anything to do with his being hired." " [First Lady Hillary
Rodham Clinton's statement in Helsinki, Finland on 7/10/96]
Mr. Bill Kennedy has stated: "I have never had any discussion with Mrs.
Clinton about Mr. Livingstone. No one else ever told me that Mrs. Clinton
had any interest whatsoever in Mr. Livingstone or his position." [Statement of
William H. Kennedy, 6/29/96]
Mr. Craig Livingstone has stated: "I've asked my mother and she, for the
record, says that she has never met Mrs. Clinton." [Livingstone testimony
before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 6/28/96]
Dennis Sculimbrene has offered differing accounts of the story involving Mrs. Clinton
and Mrs. Livingstone:
"According to Mr. Sculimbrene, both Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Livingstone told
him that Mr. Livingstone's mother knew Mrs. Clinton, which seemed to
explain his standing. However, Mr. Sculimbrene said he has no independent
knowledge of whether the two women actually knew one another and
suggested that Mr. Livingstone may have made it up in an attempt to inflate
his status or protect his job." [Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96]
Q: Now, you said Craig Livingstone had this job because who wanted him to
have the job?
Sculimbrene: Mrs. Clinton is apparently a friend of Craig's mother.
Q: Mrs. Clinton is a friend of Craig's mother?
CGE 054201
452
Sculimbrene: Yes. And that is why Bill Kennedy told me he was stuck with
Craig.
Q: Let me ask you, though, do you have any--do you remember any
conversations where you were told that Mr. Livingstone got that job because
he was connected with Mrs. Clinton?
Sculimbrene: Yes. Kennedy told me that.
[Sculimbrene Interview before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 6/19/96]
Sculimbrene's FBI interview report states that Mr. Bernard Nussbaum was the
individual who informed him (Sculimbrene) that Mr. Livingstone received his
job because of a pre-existing relationship between Mrs. Livingstone and Mrs.
Clinton.
According to a news account, FBI agent David Bowie, who worked with
Sculimbrene, wrote in an August, 1995 memo that Sculimbrene had "very bitter
political feelings against the White House." Bowie further accused Sculimbrene of
"irrational" behavior. [The Washington Post, 6/28/96]
Sculimbrene is involved in an employment dispute with the FBI, alleging he was
discriminated against because of his handicap. (Sculimbrene suffered a severe head
injury after being hit by a propeller.) Sculimbrene has been quoted by another FBI
agent as saying, "he could get away with anything" because he was disabled. [The
Washington Post, 6/29/96]
In a news account, Sculimbrene stated the FBI was seeking retribution for his
testimony in the Dale trial. (Sculimbrene testified on behalf of Billy Ray Dale at
Dale's trial for embezzlement in November of 1995.) [Wall Street Journal, 6/25/96]
Numerous issues regarding the propriety of the actions of other FBI agents assigned
to the Clinton White House have arisen over the last few years. " the FBI post at
the White House has also been the subject of considerable controversy, particularly
during the Clinton administration." [The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
"One of the agents who helped with White House background checks in 1994
and 1995, Halbert Gary Harlow, was charged and eventually convicted last
year of falsifying at least 50 interviews that he claimed to have conducted."
[The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
Former FBI agent Gary Aldrich published a book on the Clinton White House
which featured wild, unsubstantiated rumors. The book was widely criticized
for making public raw FBI data. Aldrich "published his account without
completing a required FBI review process." [The Washington Post, 6/29/96]
CGE 054202
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 25, 1996
BY TELECOPY
Louis J. Freeh
Director
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Dear Director Freeh:
As you may know, Congressman Clinger today divulged, on
the House floor, an interview report from a confidential FBI
background investigation that has been declared to be false by
the person who was interviewed. I am writing to you to ask how
we can work together to ensure continued public confidence in the
accuracy of FBI investigations.
According to Mr. Clinger's statement today, the
background investigation file on Mr. Craig Livingstone includes a
report by Agent Dennis Sculimbrene on a conversation he says he
had with White House Counsel Bernard Nussbaum concerning Mr.
Livingstone's hiring. But, according to a statement issued by
Mr. Nussbaum today, that conversation never took place.
This Administration and the American people have
enormous confidence in the FBI, for good reason. And, the role
that the agency plays in conducting background investigations and
helping to ensure the suitability of appointees for their posts
cannot be overstated. The President, you and the American people
have a large stake indeed in the fairness and accuracy of this
process.
That is why we are troubled, as we know you must be, by
the implication that an FBI background investigation might
include a false report. This matter is especially worrisome
coming as it does on the heels of published reports of the
conviction of one of the agents who did background checks at the
White House on charges of falsifying at least 50 interviews that
he claimed to have conducted.
It is equally troubling that a Member of Congress can
publicly reveal confidential FBI information, whether for
partisan purposes or otherwise. It should not escape notice that
this is done at a time when Members of Congress have expressed
worry that employees of the executive branch might have sought
454
out confidential FBI information about certain individuals. and
CCF a51293
planned to somehow use it publicly. While that charge has'never
been established against anyone in the executive branch, we now
witness the same objectionable behavior by the very people who
professed to be the guardians of privacy.
It is important that we take steps to ensure continuing
confidence in the confidentiality and the integrity of the FBI
clearance process. I look forward to your suggestions as to how
we can work with you to that end.
Best regards,
Sincerely,
Jane Quinn to the Qui President
Attachment
455
CGE 054204
July 25, 1996
Contact:
Jim Fitzpatrick
202-942-5878
STATEMENT OF BERNARD NUSSBAUM
I never told FBI Agent Sculimbrene, or anyone
else, that the First Lady recommended Craig Livingstone
for his position in the White House or that the First
Lady knew Livingstone's mother. I never knew or heard
any such things. In fact, I understand that the First
Lady and Livingstone's mother don't know each other. I
am mystified and outraged that someone would attribute
to me something I never said.
456
CGE 054205
FIRST LADY HILLARY CLINTON Q AND A'S IN BUCHAREST, ROMANIA
MONDAY, JULY 1, 1996
Q from AP: Before we get too far along with our wonderful
Romanian visit, I want to clear up just on thing hanging over
Washington. Did you or to your knowledge, díd Vince Foster have
anything to do with the hiring of Craig Livingstone?
A from HRC: I don't know anything about it, I know I didn't.
0 from AP: Do you have any reason to believe that Vince Foster
did?
A from HRC: I have no reason to believe that.
0 from AP: Is there any connection between your mother and Craig
Livingstone's mother. Which is something the FBI agent is
claiming.
À from HRC: The "ex FBI Agent"? No there is no connection. I
do believe, if I ever meet the woman I'm going to say "Mrs.
Livingstone I presume."
FIRST LADY DISCUSSION WITH TRAVELING PRESS
HELSINKI, FINLAND
JULY 10, 1996
& from ABC: I need to follow-up on one of Ron's questions. When
did you first meet Craig Livingstone? When did you become aware
that you knew him?
A from HRC: Gee, I don't have any ídea. I don't recall meeting
him for the first couple of years we were in the White House. I
just don't know him. I have met him since then, but my best
memory is sometime within the last year is the first time I ever
put a face and a name together.
& from AP: I really don't want to belabor this, but did I
understand you on the Livingstone question, that you don't really
have a memory of knowing him until this all happened?
A from HRC: Ron, I did not know his mother. I did not know him.
I did not have anything to do with his being hired. And, I do
not remember even meeting him until sometime in the last year.
So, it does not mean I did not run into him. It does not mean
that I did not shake his hand in a receiving line. All that
could have happened. But, in terms of any connection with this
young man or any kind of relationship with him, there was none.
CGE 054207
Ex-FBI Agent: First Lady
Wanted Livingstone on Staff
FILLS, Proo A0
and The Inquiry La also directed "
Novice recorded meetings write
Sculembrenc's Degation that his FDI
Rogeles poboe officer Surcey C Koon
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and the Nottocal Rine Atsoctrtion's
aupervisors realthied meatest hon for
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Lestifying as a defense withing in the
executive ske president. Mayoe
SECURITY problems. and aid he lold
trisl of Good Wore House Gard chief
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Billy R_ Data Date we acquitied of
questions school staff members n
0, George Lardner Jr.
point. bol It doesn't mallet. It's
emberdement duryes,
write sero creditibity."
the Wrbcol lerch' or ibe White
done deal. Hilliary works him
Scotembrene his said be DOW e
and Merre Thomas
Earber Usb month, Aktrich wrote
House
The embalited Livingstone an.
abort otick for the Wall Street your
ports B the FBI offices to Tynons
Corner, where be bas "Do work no
AI 000 potol Aktrich wrote. he and
nounced hb resignstion Wednesday
me editoral pare n aleged that
Livrogstnoe docussed Lbe serious 10
^ former PBI agent assigned 10
n a House heatns after a drumfire
sestgmments." in In August 1995
the White House ways tre was told
permanent White Blouse employees
of articism over his office's Improper
memo, David Bowle. snother FDI
curity problems, including stall roca-
strepected of disloyalty were to for
bene who standd have been fired be
that Cralg Livingstone was named
collection of renaltive PBI back-
'specled" sttention, Fallary Chotos
agent who worked a the Date as
choe of their backgrounds and the
THE
bead of permonel socurity despite
ground reports on trandrods of Rc
told FBI bigher-up that Scollmbreue
otyk'-soch a DCW background to
bck of cooperation from other While
questionable background because
publicans from pass edministrations
has very bitter political feeliogs
restigations before they were due
House staff roembers in EYED subcott.
Thilling wasts him
One of the bigger arysteries lett 11
a cabort the White Home" and ac.
As FBI agent be worked with M.
the bearing was the question of who
cased hire of "phytical" behavior,
tipg to FBI Interviews. Uriagrtone,
Mnung in a new book Unliarted
Derois Scafembrene, has illeged that
had htred Livingrtone, a longtime po-
b) Ha book Address and the new
wrote Aktrich, said Reasody under.
Access-An FBI Ageal Inside the
Walle House political operatives
Clarro White House used temporary
stood the problems but refused 10
Clinton White House," the egent,
Filkcal advance than with no back.
premiped bim for Information COTT
deal with them
18. 1996
Gary Aldrich, ald roctate
ground B security troes
tabled to confidential FBI background
passes for many moolbs 10 gel
whre House counsel William FL Keo-
Aktrich was assigned to the White
around the need to provide the Se
The two roen decided 10 80 to
files to E effort to root out career
nedy ni (old bm in early 1993 the
cret Service with FBI backgrpund to
higher-aps about the security prob-
House to condect background Irresti-
employees and replace them with
parts for permanent passes,
according to Aktrich Lie wrote
first lady Hilliry Rodhers Clin too
gations for five years antil be retired
Clinted supporters,
wanted Livingstone in the 100.
The White House changes office
that be assumed they would discuss h
In Jace 1995. Ладту in toos and Laced
Those charges have led to as to
tightened security procedures to ear-
with theo-White Rouse counsel Ber.
Kennedy. Aldrich wrote asked
with endocumented allegations, his
termal FBI lovestigation. The probe b
ty 1994 after 2 review conctuded that
and Nussbrum. "Cratg looked at me
FINAL
hiro what the FBI thought of Living
book was published by a conservative
focused 8 Aktrich's contentions that
more than 100 employees were at
The I didn't bave a brain. Housba urol
stooe 23 a replacement for a longtime
bouse, Regnery Publiching Co. It was
be told bis supervisor, James Bourke,
knowed to work for months without
It's on Nucebasm we gotts at 10.
relerm rod in particular what the
involved decounced by the White
that the security system of the White
House
rootine ackgreted investige
WeT be taking B HIBIRY
FBI would Urink d there were chareo
House had been relaxed ad those by:
White Boase officials administedged
Livingstone DETER mentioned the
155 toves 5 hh background"
"Oo its Loce, this b trash for right-
al to the Chotoes could crade back
then that some White Bouse staffers
meeting with Hilary Clinton rgain
"I responded gingerly, wring It
wing ansh," ald White Поше spokes-
ground checks. U. Bourks was tware
were found to bare troablesome per-
and a cever came off, Aldricb wrole
was 2 post that should be filled with
mac Mark Fabtard Regnery, be said,
of such matters, the FBI hispectors
socal problems when the Idag se
Step/ writers Sum Schmidt and
someone equally clean, before Keo-
bas poblished books by former Los
will try to what If any-
byed investigations wat family -
/im McGa and researcher Nathan
mady an me oft 1 goess I ace your
See FILER A7. Col
thing. be did about them, soartes
pleted
Above amtributed to this mport
CGE 054215