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Swearing-in of Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Jack Kemp, 2/13/89
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Swearing-in of Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Jack Kemp, 2/13/89
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Document No.
004730
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
2/8/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP-HUD
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Klugmann)
February 8, 1989
7:40 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
SWEARING-IN
OF
SECRETARY
KEMP
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
Thank you very much. As a former Congressman myself, I
thought I'd come by to welcome Jack Kemp to the Executive Branch
and tell him that the water is fine. But, really, it is a
pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development. I've known Jack for some time,
I've seen him in action, and I think he will be a great H.U.D.
Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne, who is such an
important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with affordable houses
going up and old ones being restored. It means giving people,
working people, poor people, all our citizens, control
- 2 -
over their own lives. And it means a commitment to civil rights
and economic opportunity for every American. The chance for a
greater America lies before us, and we are going to seize that
chance.
To all the fine people of H.U.D. I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work you do. You face tough problems
every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of commitment.
I think you are a great team, and I think that in Jack Kemp you
will have a great quarterback.
Jack is a man of ideas, and I've made clear that I want him
to apply his creativity and energy to the area of housing and
urban policy, which are among the most important and challenging
issues in America today. These problems require a compassionate
strategy, and that's the reason I asked Jack to take this job.
While still in Congress, Jack developed some innovative
ideas, many of which won support from Members on both sides of
the aisle. Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. I believe that
given a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the inner
city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for every
citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their
own futures. I want to work toward giving tenants in Federal
housing the right to manage and buy their own homes and
apartments.
- 3 -
Where whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up
by misguided policies, I want to change those policies and
empower residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public
and private sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say it
again: I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination.
And I want us to end the tragedy of homelessness. I favor
full funding for the McKinney Act. We must care for those who
for various reasons are unable to care for themselves, and we
must identify and remove the obstacles that prevent people from
being able to acquire housing.
We need to make all neighborhoods and all housing projects
liveable. An important part of that is fighting drugs and crime
and providing law and order so that honest citizens are no longer
terrorized or victimized.
Throughout his political career, Jack reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background. He has made
his commitment to inclusion something visible and important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to
open doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
So, before we do these things, Jack, we have to get you
sworn in. [Witness swearing-in of Sec. Kemp.]
Master
Document No. 004730
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 02/07/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 p.m. 02/08
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP-HUD
(02/07 7:40 p.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
delete
STUDDERT
BATES
pg 1. on
UNTERMEYER
pg
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST No changes
FITZWATER
GRAY 12:00 NC
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss (x2930,
Rm. 122) Winston by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 02/08, with an info copy to
my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
meclure -mo mochg
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Klugmann)
February 7, 1989
7:40 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMPLB
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
02
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
Thank you very much. As a former Congressman myself, I
thought I'd come by to welcome Jack Kemp to the Executive Branch
and tell him that the water is fine. But, really, it is a
pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development. I've known Jack for some time,
I've seen him in action, and I think he will be a great H.U.D.
Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne, who is such an
important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with new, affordable
houses going up and old ones being restored. It means giving
people, working people, poor people, all our citizens, control
- 2 -
over their own lives. And it means a commitment to civil rights
and economic opportunity for every American. The chance for a
greater America lies before us, and we are going to seize that
chance.
To all the fine people of H.U.D. I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work you do. You face tough problems
every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of commitment.
I think you are a great team, and I think that in Jack Kemp you
will have a great quarterback.
Jack is a man of ideas, and I've made clear that I want him
to apply his creativity and energy to the area of housing and
urban policy, Amelport which are among the most important and challenging
issues in Government today. It's time for a compassionate
These problems require
Studdent
strategy, and that's the reason I asked Jack to take this job.
While still in Congress, Jack developed some innovative
ideas, many of which won support from Members on both sides of
the aisle. Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. I believe that
given half- a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the
inner city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for
every citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their
work toward giving
own futures. I want to give tenants in Federal housing the right
to manage and their own housing projects, and also the chance to buy
homes and
their own apartments.
fredlies Roter
- 3 -
Where whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up
by misguided policies, I want to change those policies and
empower residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public
and private sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say it
again: I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination.
And I want us to end the tragedy of homelessness. I favor
full funding for the McKinney Act. We must care for those who
for various reasons are unable to care for themselves, and we
must identify and remove the obstacles that prevent people from
being able to acquire housing.
We need to make all neighborhoods and all housing projects
liveable. An important part of that is fighting drugs and crime
and providing law and order so that honest citizens are no longer
terrorized or victimized.
Throughout his political career, Jack reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background. He has made
his commitment to inclusion something visible and important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to
open doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
So, before we do these things, Jack, we have to get you
sworn in. [Witness swearing-in of Sec. Kemp.]
guen a chance
(Klugmann)
February 11, 1989
12:50 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
Thank you very much. ( (Jack, now that you're going to be in
charge of federal housing, does that make you my landlord?) )
( (Should I call you when the sink clogs up?) ) ( (No, that the
Interior Department. I guess you're off the hook.) ) But,
really, it is a pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack
Kemp as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. I've known
Jack for some time, I've seen him in action, and I think he will
be a great H.U.D. Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne,
who is such an important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with affordable houses
going up and old ones being restored. It means giving people,
working people, poor people, all our citizens, control
- 2 -
over their own lives. And it means a commitment to civil rights
and economic opportunity for every American. The chance for a
greater America lies before us, and we are going to seize that
chance.
To all the fine people of H.U.D. I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work you do. You face tough problems
every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of commitment.
I think you are a great team, and I think that in Jack Kemp you
will have a great quarterback.
Jack is a man of ideas, and I've made clear that I want him
to apply his creativity and energy to the area of housing and
urban policy, which are among the most important and challenging
issues in America today. These problems require a compassionate
strategy, and that's the reason I asked Jack to take this job.
While still in Congress, Jack developed some innovative
ideas, many of which won support from Members on both sides of
the aisle. Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. I believe that
given a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the inner
city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for every
citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their
own futures. I want to work toward giving tenants in Federal
housing the right to manage and buy their own homes and
apartments.
- 3 -
Where whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up
by misguided policies, I want to change those policies and
empower residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public
and private sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say it
again: I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination.
And I want us to end the tragedy of homelessness. I favor
full funding for the McKinney Act. We must care for those who
for various reasons are unable to care for themselves, and we
must identify and remove the obstacles that prevent people from
being able to acquire housing.
We need to make all neighborhoods and all housing projects
liveable. An important part of that is fighting drugs and crime
and providing law and order so that honest citizens are no longer
terrorized or victimized.
Throughout his political career, Jack reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background. He has made
his commitment to inclusion something visible and important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to
open doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
So, before we do these things, Jack, we have to get you
sworn in. [Witness swearing-in of Sec. Kemp.]
SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
THANK YOU VERY MUCH. ((JACK, NOW THAT YOU'RE GOING
TO BE IN CHARGE OF FEDERAL HOUSING, DOES THAT MAKE YOU MY
LANDLORD?)) ((SHOULD I CALL YOU WHEN THE SINK CLOGS UP?))
((No, THAT'S THE INTERIOR DEPARTMENT. I GUESS YOU'RE OFF
THE HooK.)) BUT, REALLY, IT IS A PLEASURE TO BE HERE FOR
THE SWEARING-IN OF JACK KEMP AS SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND
URBAN DEVELOPMENT.
2
I'VE KNOWN JACK FOR SOME TIME, I'VE SEEN HIM IN ACTION,
AND I THINK HE'LL BE A GREAT H.U.D. SECRETARY. I ALSO
WANT TO RECOGNIZE JOANNE, WHO IS SUCH AN IMPORTANT PART OF
EVERYTHING JACK DOES.
JACK SERVED 9 TERMS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
AND HE WAS AN ALL-PRO CONGRESSMAN, VOTED BY HIS COLLEAGUES
TO 3 TERMS AS CHAIRMAN OF THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN CONFERENCE.
AND JACK'S RECORD IS AN IMPRESSIVE ONE -- MORE
COMPLETED PASSES THAN ANY OTHER MEMBER OF CONGRESS.
3
I COUNT THE TAX RATE REDUCTIONS OF 1981 AND 1986 AS BEING
TOUCHDOWN PASSES, JUST A COUPLE OF JACK'S IDEAS THAT HE
GOT ACROSS THE GOAL LINE. AND THE TAX CUTS DID MORE THAN
PUT POINTS ON THE BOARD, THEY HELPED PRODUCE THE LONGEST
PEACETIME EXPANSION EVER RECORDED.
BOTH JACK AND I ARE DEDICATED TO MAKING AMERICA, TO
THE FULLEST EXTENT, AN OPPORTUNITY SOCIETY.
4
THAT MEANS AN ECONOMY THAT'S THRIVING AND CREATING JOBS;
CITIES THAT ARE FILLED WITH ENTERPRISE AND OFFER RESIDENTS
A GOOD LIFE AND A GOOD LIVING; NEIGHBORHOODS THAT ARE
VIBRANT AND SAFE, WITH AFFORDABLE HOUSES GOING UP AND OLD
ONES BEING RESTORED. IT MEANS GIVING PEOPLE, WORKING
PEOPLE, POOR PEOPLE, ALL OUR CITIZENS, CONTROL OVER THEIR
OWN LIVES. AND IT MEANS A COMMITMENT TO CIVIL RIGHTS AND
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY FOR EVERY AMERICAN. THE CHANCE FOR A
GREATER AMERICA LIES BEFORE US, AND WE ARE GOING TO SEIZE
THAT CHANCE.
5
To ALL THE FINE PEOPLE OF H.U.D. I WANT TO SAY THAT I
GREATLY RESPECT YOU AND THE WORK YOU DO. You FACE TOUGH
PROBLEMS EVERY DAY, AND YOU DO IT WITH A TREMENDOUS SENSE
OF COMMITMENT. I THINK YOU ARE A GREAT TEAM, AND I THINK
THAT IN JACK KEMP YOU WILL HAVE A GREAT QUARTERBACK.
JACK IS A MAN OF IDEAS, AND I'VE MADE CLEAR THAT I
WANT HIM TO APPLY HIS CREATIVITY AND ENERGY TO THE AREA OF
HOUSING AND URBAN POLICY, WHICH ARE AMONG THE MOST
IMPORTANT AND CHALLENGING ISSUES IN AMERICA TODAY.
6
THESE PROBLEMS REQUIRE A COMPASSIONATE STRATEGY, AND
THAT'S THE REASON I ASKED JACK TO TAKE THIS JOB.
WHILE STILL IN CONGRESS, JACK DEVELOPED SOME
INNOVATIVE IDEAS, MANY OF WHICH WON SUPPORT FROM MEMBERS
ON BOTH SIDES OF THE AISLE. OUR PLAN IS TO USE ENTERPRISE
ZONES TO BRING JOBS, INVESTMENT, AND OPPORTUNITY TO
DEPRESSED AREAS. I BELIEVE THAT GIVEN A CHANCE, ECONOMIC
FREEDOM CAN BRING A REVIVAL TO THE INNER CITY, AND IT CAN
CREATE JOBS AND HOUSING AND DIGNITY FOR EVERY CITIZEN.
7
I WANT TO USE URBAN HOMESTEADING TO ENABLE PUBLIC
HOUSING RESIDENTS TO GAIN A STAKE IN THEIR OWN COMMUNITIES
AND IN THEIR OWN FUTURES. I WANT TO WORK TOWARD GIVING
TENANTS IN FEDERAL HOUSING THE RIGHT TO MANAGE AND BUY
THEIR OWN HOMES AND APARTMENTS.
WHERE WHOLE NEIGHBORHOODS HAVE BEEN BLIGHTED AND
BOARDED UP BY MISGUIDED POLICIES, I WANT TO CHANGE THOSE
POLICIES AND EMPOWER RESIDENTS TO REBUILD THEIR
NEIGHBORHOODS, WITH THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS WORKING
TOGETHER.
8
AND I THINK YOU KNOW HOW STRONGLY I FEEL, BUT LET ME
SAY IT AGAIN: I AM COMMITTED TO EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
FOR ALL OUR CITIZENS AND TO THE STRONG ENFORCEMENT OF THE
LAWS AGAINST DISCRIMINATION.
AND I WANT US TO END THE TRAGEDY OF HOMELESSNESS. I
FAVOR FULL FUNDING FOR THE MCKINNEY AcT. WE MUST CARE FOR
THOSE WHO FOR VARIOUS REASONS ARE UNABLE TO CARE FOR
THEMSELVES, AND WE MUST IDENTIFY AND REMOVE THE OBSTACLES
THAT PREVENT PEOPLE FROM BEING ABLE TO ACQUIRE HOUSING.
9
WE NEED TO MAKE ALL NEIGHBORHOODS AND ALL HOUSING
PROJECTS LIVEABLE. AN IMPORTANT PART OF THAT IS FIGHTING
DRUGS AND CRIME AND PROVIDING LAW AND ORDER SO THAT HONEST
CITIZENS ARE NO LONGER TERRORIZED OR VICTIMIZED.
THROUGHOUT HIS POLITICAL CAREER, JACK REACHED OUT TO
WORK WITH TALENTED PEOPLE OF EVERY RACE AND BACKGROUND.
HE HAS MADE HIS COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION SOMETHING VISIBLE
AND IMPORTANT IN EVERYTHING HE HAS DONE. AND I WANT HIM
TO CONTINUE WORKING TO OPEN DOORS WIDER, WITH MORE
OPPORTUNITY FOR EVERYONE.
10
So, BEFORE WE DO THESE THINGS, JACK, WE HAVE TO GET
YOU SWORN IN. [WITNESS SWEARING-IN OF SEC. KEMP.]
###
(Klugmann)
February 8, 1989
7:40 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
Thank you very much. As a former Congressman myself, I
thought I'd come by to welcome Jack Kemp to the Executive Branch
and tell him that the water is fine. But, really, it is a
pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development. I've known Jack for some time,
I've seen him in action, and I think he will be a great H.U.D.
Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne, who is such an
important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with affordable houses
going up and old ones being restored. It means giving people,
working people, poor people, all our citizens, control
- 2 -
over their own lives. And it means a commitment to civil rights
and economic opportunity for every American. The chance for a
greater America lies before us, and we are going to seize that
chance.
To all the fine people of H.U.D. I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work you do. You face tough problems
every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of commitment.
I think you are a great team, and I think that in Jack Kemp you
will have a great quarterback.
Jack is a man of ideas, and I've made clear that I want him
to apply his creativity and energy to the area of housing and
urban policy, which are among the most important and challenging
issues in America today. These problems require a compassionate
strategy, and that's the reason I asked Jack to take this job.
While still in Congress, Jack developed some innovative
ideas, many of which won support from Members on both sides of
the aisle. Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. I believe that
given a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the inner
city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for every
citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their
own futures. I want to work toward giving tenants in Federal
housing the right to manage and buy their own homes and
apartments.
- 3 -
Where whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up
by misguided policies, I want to change those policies and
empower residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public
and private sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say it
again: I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination.
And I want us to end the tragedy of homelessness. I favor
full funding for the McKinney Act. We must care for those who
for various reasons are unable to care for themselves, and we
must identify and remove the obstacles that prevent people from
being able to acquire housing.
We need to make all neighborhoods and all housing projects
liveable. An important part of that is fighting drugs and crime
and providing law and order so that honest citizens are no longer
terrorized or victimized.
Throughout his political career, Jack reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background. He has made
his commitment to inclusion something visible and important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to
open doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
So, before we do these things, Jack, we have to get you
sworn in. [Witness swearing-in of Sec. Kemp.]
Document No. 004730
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 02/07/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 p.m. 02/08
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP-HUD
(02/07 7:40 p.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss (x2930,
Rm. 122) Winston by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 02/08, with an info copy to
my office. Thanks.
see comment
RESPONSE:
sms
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Klugmann)
February 7, 1989
7:40 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMPLB
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
02
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
Thank you very much. As a former Congressman myself, I
thought I'd come by to welcome Jack Kemp to the Executive Branch
and tell him that the water is fine. But, really, it is a
pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development. I've known Jack for some time,
I've seen him in action, and I think he will be a great H.U.D.
Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne, who is such an
important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with new, affordable
houses going up and old ones being restored. It means giving
people, working people, poor people, all our citizens, control
- 2 -
over their own lives. And it means a commitment to civil rights
and economic opportunity for every American. The chance for a
greater America lies before us, and we are going to seize that
chance.
To all the fine people of H.U.D. I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work you do. You face tough problems
every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of commitment.
I think you are a great team, and I think that in Jack Kemp you
will have a great quarterback.
Jack is a man of ideas, and I've made clear that I want him
to apply his creativity and energy to the area of housing and
inggests
urban policy, which are among the most important and challenging
epidiction
issues in Government today. It's time for a compassionate
strategy, and that's the reason I asked Jack to take this job.
of
While still in Congress, Jack developed some innovative
Reagan
ideas, many of which won support from Members on both sides of
the aisle. Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. I believe that
given half a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the
inner city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for
every citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their
own futures. I want to give tenants in Federal housing the right
to manage their own housing projects, and also the chance to buy
their own apartments.
- 3 -
Where whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up
by misguided policies, I want to change those policies and
empower residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public
and private sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say it
again: I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination.
And I want us to end the tragedy of homelessness. I favor
full funding for the McKinney Act. We must care for those who
for various reasons are unable to care for themselves, and we
must identify and remove the obstacles that prevent people from
being able to acquire housing.
We need to make all neighborhoods and all housing projects
liveable. An important part of that is fighting drugs and crime
and providing law and order so that honest citizens are no longer
terrorized or victimized.
Throughout his political career, Jack reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background. He has made
his commitment to inclusion something visible and important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to
open doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
So, before we do these things, Jack, we have to get you
sworn in. [Witness swearing-in of Sec. Kemp.]
THE WHITE house
WASHINGTON
February 8, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
MICHAEL J. ASTRUE MJA
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Swearing-in of Jack Kemp as
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
Counsel's office has reviewed the above-referenced proposed
Presidential remarks, and we have no legal or other objections to
the remarks.
CC: James W. Cicconi
(Klugmann)
February 7, 1989
7:40 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
Thank you very much. As a former Congressman myself, I
thought I'd come by to welcome Jack Kemp to the Executive Branch
and tell him that the water is fine. But, really, it is a
pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development. I've known Jack for some time,
I've seen him in action, and I think he will be a great H.U.D.
Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne, who is such an
important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with new, affordable
houses going up and old ones being restored. It means giving
people, working people, poor people, all our citizens, control
- 2 -
over their own lives. And it means a commitment to civil rights
and economic opportunity for every American. The chance for a
greater America lies before us, and we are going to seize that
chance.
To all the fine people of H.U.D. I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work you do. You face tough problems
every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of commitment.
I think you are a great team, and I think that in Jack Kemp you
will have a great quarterback.
Jack is a man of ideas, and I've made clear that I want him
to apply his creativity and energy to the area of housing and
urban policy, which are among the most important and challenging
issues in Government today. It's time for a compassionate
strategy, and that's the reason I asked Jack to take this job.
While still in Congress, Jack developed some innovative
ideas, many of which won support from Members on both sides of
the aisle. Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. I believe that
given half a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the
inner city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for
every citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their
own futures. I want to give tenants in Federal housing the right
to manage their own housing projects, and also the chance to buy
their own apartments.
- 3 -
Where whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up
by misguided policies, I want to change those policies and
empower residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public
and private sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say it
again: I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination.
And I want us to end the tragedy of homelessness. I favor
full funding for the McKinney Act. We must care for those who
for various reasons are unable to care for themselves, and we
must identify and remove the obstacles that prevent people from
being able to acquire housing.
We need to make all neighborhoods and all housing projects
liveable. An important part of that is fighting drugs and crime
and providing law and order so that honest citizens are no longer
terrorized or victimized.
Throughout his political career, Jack reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background. He has made
his commitment to inclusion something visible and important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to
open doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
So, before we do these things, Jack, we have to get you
sworn in. [Witness swearing-in of Sec. Kemp.]
(Klugmann)
February 7, 1989
7:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
Thank you very much. As a former Congressman myself, I
thought I'd come by to welcome Jack Kemp to the Executive Branch
and tell him that the water is fine. But, really, it is a
pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development. I've known Jack for some time,
I've seen him in action, and I think he will be a great H.U.D.
Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne, who is such an
important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with new, affordable
houses going up and old ones being restored. It means giving
people, working people, poor people, all our citizens, control
- 2 -
over their own lives. And it means a commitment to civil rights
and economic opportunity for every American. The chance for a
greater America lies before us, and we are going to seize that
chance.
To all the fine people of H.U.D. I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work you do. You face tough problems
every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of commitment.
I think you are a great team, and I think that in Jack Kemp you
will have great quarterback.
Jack is a man of ideas, and I've made clear that I want him
to apply his creativity and energy to the area of housing and
urban policy, which are among the most important and challenging
issues in Government today. It's time for a compassionate
strategy, and that's the reason I asked Jack to take this job.
While still in Congress, Jack developed some innovative
ideas, many of which won support from Members on both sides of
the aisle. Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. I believe that
given half a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the
inner city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for
every citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their
own futures. I want to give tenants in Federal housing the right
to manage their own housing projects, and also the chance to buy
their own apartments.
- 3 -
Where whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up
by misguided policies, I want to change those policies and
empower residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public
and private sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say it
again: I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination.
And I want us to end the tragedy of homelessness. I favor
full funding for the McKinney Act. We must care for those who
for various reasons are unable to care for themselves, and we
must identify and remove the obstacles that prevent people from
being able to acquire housing.
We need to make all neighborhoods and all housing projects
liveable. An important part of that is fighting drugs and crime
and providing law and order so that honest citizens are no longer
terrorized or victimized.
Throughout his political career, Jack reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background. He has made
his commitment to inclusion something visible and important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to
open doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
So, before we do these things, Jack, we have to get you
sworn in. [Witness swearing-in of Sec. Kemp.]
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 8, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER
RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Swearing-In of Secretary
Kemp-HUD
This draft is positive and appropriately complimentary for
Jack Kemp's swearing-in. The remarks also reaffirm the
President's commitment to revitalizing depressed urban areas.
My only comments from a policy standpoint in the draft
remarks are on page 2. Since we are urging the private sector to
address problems in urban areas, I think it would be more
appropriate for the President to say " which are among the most
important and challenging issues in America today. " I have made
a couple of other minor editorial suggestions on this page as
well.
If you have any questions, please let me know.
Document No. 004730
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
02/07/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
4:00 p.m. 02/08
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP-HUD
(02/07 7:40 p.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss (x2930,
Rm. 122) Winston by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 02/08, with an info copy to
my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Klugmann)
February 7, 1989
7:40 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMPO
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
02
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1989
Thank you very much. As a former Congressman myself, I
thought I'd come by to welcome Jack Kemp to the Executive Branch
and tell him that the water is fine. But, really, it is a
pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development. I've known Jack for some time,
I've seen him in action, and I think he will be a great H.U.D.
Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne, who is such an
important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with new, affordable
houses going up and old ones being restored. It means giving
people, working people, poor people, all our citizens, control
- 2 -
over their own lives. And it means a commitment to civil rights
and economic opportunity for every American. The chance for a
greater America lies before us, and we are going to seize that
chance.
To all the fine people of H.U.D. I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work you do. You face tough problems
every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of commitment.
I think you are a great team, and I think that in Jack Kemp you
will have a great quarterback.
Jack is a man of ideas, and I've made clear that I want him
to apply his creativity and energy to the area of housing and
urban policy, which are among the most important and challenging
AmeRicA
issues in Government today. It's time for a compassionate
strategy, and that's the reason I asked Jack to take this job.
While still in Congress, Jack developed some innovative
ideas, many of which won support from Members on both sides of
the aisle. Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. I believe that
given half a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the
inner city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for
every citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their
own futures. I want to give tenants in Federal housing the right
resideres
to manage their own housing projects, and also the chance to buy
their own apartments.
- 3 -
Where whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up
by misguided policies, I want to change those policies and
empower residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public
and private sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say it
again: I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination.
And I want us to end the tragedy of homelessness. I favor
full funding for the McKinney Act. We must care for those who
for various reasons are unable to care for themselves, and we
must identify and remove the obstacles that prevent people from
being able to acquire housing.
We need to make all neighborhoods and all housing projects
liveable. An important part of that is fighting drugs and crime
and providing law and order so that honest citizens are no longer
terrorized or victimized.
Throughout his political career, Jack reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background. He has made
his commitment to inclusion something visible and important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to
open doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
So, before we do these things, Jack, we have to get you
sworn in. [Witness swearing-in of Sec. Kemp.]
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
February 13, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AND SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT JACK KEMP
AT SWEARING-IN CEREMONY
Housing and Urban Development Building
4:18 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: I'd say be seated, but I don't want to
win the "smart aleck of the year" award. (Laughter.) Thank you very
much. I open with a question. Jack, now that you're going to be in
charge of federal housing, does that make you my landlord?
(Laughter.)
It's a pleasure, it's a real pleasure for me to be here
for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary of Housing and Urban
Development. I've known Jack a long time Joanne, too. And I've seen
him in action and I think he's going to be a great HUD Secretary.
For Joanne, she's an important part of everything he does, and I
think of the thousand points of light that I'll keep talking about.
No one is more engaged in helping others than Joanne Kemp -- doing a
great job out there. They'll be a wonderful team.
You know, Jack served nine terms in the House. He was an
all-pro Congressman -- (laughter) -- voted by his colleagues three
terms as Chairman of the House Republican Conference. And Jack's
record is an impressive one -- more completed passes than any other
member of Congress. (Laughter.) I count the tax rate reductions of
'81 and '86 as being touchdown passes -- a couple of his ideas that
got across the goal line, incidently. And the tax cuts did more than
put points on the board. They helped produce the longest peacetime
expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent possible, an opportunity society. And that means an
economy that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled
with enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with affordable houses going
up, old ones being restored.
It means giving people -- working people, poor people,
all our citizens -- control over their own lives. And it means a
commitment to civil rights and economic opportunity for every
American. The chance for a greater America lies before us and we're
going to seize that chance.
To all the fine people here at HUD I want to say that I
greatly respect you and the work that you do. You face tough
problems every day, and you do it with a tremendous sense of
- 2 -
strategy, and that's the reason that I thought of Jack immediately
and asked him to take this job.
While still in Congress, he developed some innovative
ideas, many of which won support from members on both sides of the
aisle.
Our plan is to use enterprise zones to bring jobs,
investment, and opportunity to depressed areas. And I believe that
given a chance, economic freedom can bring a revival to the inner
city, and it can create jobs and housing and dignity for every
citizen.
I want to use urban homesteading to enable public housing
residents to gain a stake in their own communities and in their own
futures. And I want to work toward giving tenants in federal housing
the right to manage and buy their own homes and apartments. Where
whole neighborhoods have been blighted and boarded up sometimes by
misguided policies, I want to change those policies and empower
residents to rebuild their neighborhoods, with the public and private
sectors working together.
And I think you know how strongly I feel, but let me say
it again. I am committed to equal housing opportunity for all our
citizens and to the strong enforcement of the laws against
discrimination. (Applause.)
And I want us to see us finally end the tragedy of
homelessness. I do favor full funding for this McKinney Act. We've
got to care for those who for various reasons are unable to care for
themselves, and we must identify and remove the obstacles that
prevent people from being able to acquire housing.
So these are our goals. And Jack Kemp -- for these ideas
I have clicked off here today, Jack Kemp has been out front for those
very principles for a long, long time. A lot of the most innovative
thinking on the inner city has come from him.
Throughout his political career, he reached out to work
with talented people of every race and background, and he's made his
commitment to inclusion something visible, something important in
everything he has done. And I want him to continue working to open
the doors wider, with more opportunity for everyone.
And so, before we go to work, there's one important thing
to do, and that is the swearing-in -- the official swearing-in of the
new Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Jack Kemp.
Thank you all very much. (Applause.)
(The oath is administered.)
SECRETARY KEMP: Thank you for that standing ovation.
(Laughter.) Thank you, Mr. President, not only for being here today,
but for the inspiring mission and exciting goals you've laid out for
the Department of Housing and Urban Development. I particularly like
- 3 -
I want to take a moment to introduce each and every one
of you to my precious family and my inspiration. First, my wife
Joanne -- (applause.) My daughter -- you don't need to applaud for
every one of them, but I have a -- (laughter.) Our daughter, Judith,
who worked in the Reagan-Bush White House -- stand up, Judith. Our
daughter, Jennifer, who's a public school teacher. Her fiance, Scott
Andrews. They're getting married in May, which we're all excited
about. Our son, Jimmy, who just recently signed a football - notice
I said a football scholarship to Wake Forest and we're very proud of
Jimmy. (Laughter.) Our oldest son, Jeffrey, and his wife, Stacy,
could not be here today. They're in Seattle and he's preparing for
his ninth season as an NFL quarterback. Joanne Kemp is the only wife
and mother of an NFL quarterback in history, so -- (laughter.)
President Bush, as I said, it's a particular honor to
have you with us today and to have other members of your team. I'm
very pleased that Secretary Brady -- Secretary of Treasury Brady is
here, Secretary of Transportation Skinner, Secretary of Labor
Elizabeth Dole, Secretary of Health and Human Services Lou Sullivan.
I'm honored that Chairman Gonzalez is with us today to give evidence
of bipartisan support for HUD. (Applause.) I want to thank each and
every one of them for coming -- family and friends from all over the
country.
George Bush, President Bush spoke eloquently about HUD's
special mission. We operate in a market that contains the most
visible symbol of the American dream -- home ownership. Our mission,
I believe, is to inject oxygen and seed corn and new life and new
hope into those distressed inner cities.
Mr. President, you talked about free enterprise zones,
which include dramatic -- some would say radical -- tax incentives
for entrepreneurship and the creation of new jobs in those areas.
You talked about the need to impower the poor with home ownership and
equity, through initiatives like tenant management and urban
homesteading -- an idea which Kimie Gray has helped make work in the
District of Columbia and I believe can be a model for other cities,
and most importantly, for other people.
You talked, Mr. President, of helping recapture the
American dream for first-time homebuyers -- young families just
starting out. And you asked us at HUD to lead an all-out public and
private effort to help end the appalling tragedy of homelessness,
which really is a reflection of the tragedy of hopelessness for which
housing is just only part of the solution. And we at HUD will carry
more than our share of the load in helping end this tragedy.
This is a compassionate society and we'll be
compassionate at HUD. In a Judeo-Christian society, the ultimate
compassion, however, is not measured by how many people are on
welfare or government assistance. As the philosopher Maimonides said
in the 12th century, "the noblest charity is to prevent people from
having to take charity in the first place." (Applause.)
We here at HUD know that there are other challenges
facing us. The need to build better public and private partnerships
- 4 -
I want to, for just a moment, speak about a more personal
challenge facing you and me -- each and every one of us as public
servants and keepers of the public trust. You said, Mr. President,
when you recognized the fine people and dedicated public servants who
work here at HUD and the rest of the federal government that
government service is a noble calling and a public trust. Indeed, it
is. You said that you learned from your parents -- your mother and
your father -- that there is no higher honor than to serve free men
and free women; that there is no greater privilege than to labor in
government beneath the Great Seal of the United States and the
American flag.
Well, I agree. Not only do I agree, but I applaud your
recognition, Mr. President, of the dedicated public servants in the
federal government of the United States of America. (Applause.)
With that in mind, let me set out two touchstones for our
work here at HUD. First, we need to adhere to the very highest
standards of integrity, ethics and the law. President Bush, you've
made this standard the watchword of your administration. And I want
to help you and help you at HUD make this an agency in which it is
enthusiastically and vigorously upheld.
Second, to my colleagues at the Housing and Urban
Development Agency, we all must keep our minds, our work and our
hearts focused on those we are meant to serve -- not just the
homebuilder, but the homebuyer; not only public housing authorities,
but the public housing resident; not just mayors and city managers,
but the poor and those who live temporarily on the streets or in
shelters. We need to keep them foremost in our minds and our hearts
because our job is to give them what Dr. King called a stake in the
American dream -- a helping hand, the equality of opportunity to
build a better future for themselves and their children. No one has
to lose in this equation. America is not a zero-sum game of static
conditions on this Earth in which one gains at another's expense. or
someone's job must come at another's loss, or someone must profit
while others must lose. I don't see America that way. I don't
believe in the perpetuity of poverty.
So I'm excited about the challenge ahead. I'm thrilled
and honored to have the opportunity to help implement George Bush's
agenda for the '90's here at HUD -- an agenda of compassion and
opportunity; of hope and the promise of a better and brighter future
for America in housing, economic development, in home ownership and
in jobs.
Today is special. Special for me. And special not only
because President Bush is here at HUD. But also because it's the day
after the birthday -- the 180th anniversary of the birthday of
Abraham Lincoln.
So I want to close with one of my favorite quotes from
Abraham Lincoln. One day in New England, Mr. Lincoln addressed some
shoemakers who happened to be on strike. He told them he didn't
believe in laws that prevented men from getting rich. He said it
would only do more harm than good. Mr. Lincoln went on to say, he
did not propose any war on capital, but that he wanted to allow the
- 5 -
Mr. President, we know what works. Now we need to put it to work in
our cities. We can't leave people behind. Mr. Lincoln said, America
cannot exist half slave, half free. In the 19th century, today, the
next century, we can't have this country half or three-quarters
prosperous and some folks left behind. The Good Shepherd would not
have it be that way.
So HUD is open for business. (Applause.) Let's get
moving. God bless you here at HUD and God bless America. Thank you
very, very much. (Applause.)
(Band begins to play.)
Now, one second, one second. Ladies and gentlemen, band
leader, thank you. (Laughter.) Well, that was gentle and kind and
-- (laughter.) It would not be a Kemp event -- not that this is --
(laughter) -- but it wouldn't be Kemp at an event if we didn't do
something a little bit different and special. And having Gene Upshaw
here is symbolic of my many years in pro football and my friendship
with him. And I asked a special guest to come here. I know you're
excited about seeing Gene. But I asked a young man who is probably
one of the great heroes of this town to bring a football on your
behalf to the President from the Washington Redskins. Join with me
in greeting Joe Gibbs, the coach of the Washington Redskins.
(Applause.)
(Football is presented.)
END
4:40 P.M. EST
2/10/89
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
(Klugmann)
February 8, 1989
7:40 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY KEMP
DEPT. OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Change please MONDAY, - some FEBRUARY other 13, humonous 1989 referred
Thank you very much. As a former Congressman myself, I
thought I'd come by to welcome Jack Kemp to the Executive Branch
and tell him that the water is fine. But, really, it is a
pleasure to be here for the swearing-in of Jack Kemp as Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development. I've known Jack for some time,
I've seen him in action, and I think he will be a great H.U.D.
Secretary. I also want to recognize Joanne, who is such an
important part of everything Jack does.
Jack served 9 terms in the House of Representatives. And he
was an all-pro Congressman, voted by his colleagues to 3 terms as
Chairman of the House Republican Conference.
And Jack's record is an impressive one -- more completed
passes than any other member of Congress. I count the tax rate
reductions of 1981 and 1986 as being touchdown passes, just a
couple of Jack's ideas that he got across the goal line. And the
tax cuts did more than put points on the board, they helped
produce the longest peacetime expansion ever recorded.
Both Jack and I are dedicated to making America, to the
fullest extent, an opportunity society. That means an economy
that's thriving and creating jobs; cities that are filled with
enterprise and offer residents a good life and a good living;
neighborhoods that are vibrant and safe, with affordable houses
going up and old ones being restored. It means giving people,
working people, poor people, all our citizens, control