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Speech File Draft Files
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Overseas Press Club, 3/28/89
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020777SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 3/28/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/28/89 4:00 PM
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, by 4:00 PM, TODAY, Tuesday, March 28,
1989, with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
Sus
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1963
((Grant))
MAR
March 27, 1989
9 a.m.
PROPOSED ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
(TO BE PRINTED AS A "MY TURN" ESSAY IN A MOCK ISSUE OF NEWSWEEK)
Fifty years ago, when the Overseas Press Club was founded,
the United States stood at the edge of entering World War II.
Despite our experiences in World War I, this nation was still
rather isolationist in its outlook. That war was far away, and
many considered it a "European war." As soon as it was over, our
men came home, and we began the return to normalization.
Then, soon enough, Hitler gained power. The entire world
was drawn into the war, and Americans became more involved.
Foreign correspondents like Edward R. Murrow brought the battles
right into our living rooms by radio. Suddenly it was not just a
"European war." It was our war, too.
In a sense, things have not changed since World War II.
Developments overseas are brought to us instantaneously -- by
radio and newspaper still -- but also by television, computer,
and even by fax machine. We no longer gather around the wireless
listening to accounts of the war, but the news we receive today
is often just as vital.
In world politics, information travels at faster and faster
speeds. Most Americans know of an "international incident"
within minutes. Just as we can read about events thousands of
miles away, people on the other side of the world often know of
occurrences here as soon as we do. Developments in world affairs
are given coverage in the newspapers of the world, and the
evening news is full of diplomatic and international political
stories. Now there are very few people left in the world without
even a passing interest in superpower relations.
The nature of business has changed as well -- the round-the-
clock business at the American, Tokyo and London stock exchanges
ensure that international investors have a 24 hour-a-day job.
Business news wires have made information the currency of the
business world. What was once a lofty concept -- a global
economy -- is now a reality.
What used to be a rather novel idea, the fact that we are
entering "the information age," now is seen as a cliche of sorts.
Frankly, I see that as a good thing.
Similarly, the nature of reporting has changed as well.
Foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for the
length of their careers. While some still honor this tradition,
more and more correspondents are sent to a variety of posts in
different countries. But there is one constant amid the change:
foreign correspondents are information managers. They are an
integral part of the political, economic and social movements in
the world, because they relate these advances with speed and
accuracy.
The world is changing fast, and is often a very dangerous
place. Those correspondents who have put themselves in the line
of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places, deserve our
thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job many dream of --
but one which few actually endure. Their challenges are often
more than we here at home can imagine.
This brings me to the case of those journalists held in
foreign lands against their will. The American government
continues to work for their release through proper channels, and
hope for their freedom. We remain vigilant in our concern and
prayers.
The changes in international reporting have had a pivotal
role in public diplomacy. The press often is greatly involved in
the message that is projected to both our allies and our enemies,
and the nature of public discourse on events is affected greatly
as a result.
Many times, this has brought international politics out of
the back room, and into the public arena. I am reminded of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the news of the Bay
of Pigs and the Cuban missile crisis, during the increasing
involvement in Vietnam. "The chickens are coming home to roost,"
General MacArthur told the new President in 1961, "and you live
in the chicken house. "
Of course, none of us look forward to hearing that those
chickens are heading home. But hearing the news is part of being
in the chicken house -- living in a democracy. The explosion of
information has placed a demand on democracy, but democratic
society is uniquely suited to such an extraordinary flow of
information, both incoming and outgoing. A free and open society
can prosper and survive in the information age, and foreign
correspondents are in many ways the lifeblood of survival.
Congratulations on fifty years of service and commitment to
the highest ideals -- freedom and truth. Thank you.
Newsweek
444 Madison Avenue
New York, N. Y. 10022-6999
Jerrold K. Footlick
Mailin Any Chance - this I
Senior Editor
(212) 350-4728
Ca be done ?
I'm to Id the President
To:
Ann McDaniel
From: Jerry Footlick
is likely to be the
Re: Presidential message
speaker Ba the Onesseas
tress C/u dinner in May.
Each year the Overseas Press Club, the nation's major
organization concerned with the reporting of
Thanks,
international affairs, holds an annual awards dinner. A
program, in the form of a magazine, is distributed at
the banquet; it contains the names of the winners and
a
An
series of articles on a particular theme. Last year, for
example, People magazine produced the program/magazine,
using politics and privacy as its election-year theme.
]
This year Newsweek is producing it, and our theme is
particularly significant: The Overseas Press Club,
founded in the spring of 1939 on the eve of World War
II, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
We think it is important to have a message from
President Bush in the magazine. (For your information, I
am enclosing a photo-copy of a message in last year's
publication from President Reagan. You will notice it
uses the format of a People magazine story, with a
Ronald Reagan byline.) We would want to use the
President's message either as a My Turn or as a
Washington story of some other kind, with his byline.
We hope that the President would deal with international
affairs, preferably the reporting of them. The message
could be 700 words or so, which would fit one page, or
twice that long, and go on two pages. We will be pleased
with either. We would like to have the statement by
March 24, although a couple of days later would work.
If there is any other information you need, I will
supply it. Thanks for your help, and our thanks in
advance to officials at the White House.
Jay
DESPITE THE MEDIA'S SHORTCOMINGS,
SAYS THE PRESIDENT, THEIR SCRUTINY
HELPS KEEP DEMOCRACY WHOLE
by Ronald Reagan
TIME
The President dons a gift trooper's hat after speaking to the National Law Enforcement Council in Washington, D.C., last year.
A
a young man growing up in the
tions across the country. Newspapers
homes. Some have said that televi-
Midwest, I remember the days of whis-
and magazines have improved their
sion has undermined the political pro-
tle-stops, classic stump oratory and
technology to keep pace with televi-
cess. On the contrary, I sometimes
radio reports of political campaigns. If
sion and continue to play a critical role
wonder where our modern democra-
my neighbors in Dixon, III., saw a na-
in campaign coverage. They print the
cy would be without it. Because this
tional candidate once in an election
longer stories that give depth to cam-
country is so large and national elec-
year, it was considered a near miracle.
paign news and offer the analysis that
tions are such enormous events, only
Today's voters get to know presi-
adds perspective. We rely on news-
television can establish a one-to-one
dential candidates even if they never
papers to carry the texts of major
communication between candidate
have the opportunity to see them in
speeches and campaign platforms
and citizen.
person. Nightly news programs, Sun-
and promises. And though they don't
The American people need to
day talk shows, televised debates and
always succeed, most newspapers
observe and listen to candidates
local interviews give us the chance to
still try hard to keep newsion the news
many times, in many different situa-
see more and learn more about those
pages and opinion on the opinion
tions. That is the best way to under-
who run for the nation's highest of-
pages.
stand their characters, feel confi-
fice than any generation before us.
I believe a living room is as good a
dent that they are individuals of
Televised campaign coverage,
place as anywhere to judge the fit-
integrity and grasp their positions
once almost exclusively the province
ness of a presidential candidate, and
on the important issues of our day.
Reagan shows carrots, as well as sticks,
can win the political "horse race."
analysis about who is winning or los-
ing or what the impact of one specific
straw poll will be on the whole cam-
paign when, in fact, no one really
knows. This can be both misleading to
the public and damaging to the candi-
date. I recall, for example, that after I
fared poorly in the 1980 Iowa Republi-
can caucuses, one veteran network
TV correspondent made the snap
judgment that my political career was
over. That was two Inaugural address-
es ago.
I have been the subject of intense
media scrutiny in every campaign in
which I participated. I have not always
agreed with everything that has been
reported. but on the whole the scruti-
ny probably helped me and turned out
to be good for the country and good
for the democratic process.
Anyone who hopes to occupy the
Oval Office must withstand intense
democratic society is all about.
in each party. But no candidate, and
scrutiny. That's the way it should be.
Reporters naturally give more at-
no voter, should take seriously the so-
Americans have high standards, and
tention to the candidate who appears
called horse-race coverage the me-
those who seek public service are
most likely to win, and the brightest
dia love so well. By that I mean the re-
asking the people to grant them some-
lights are thrown on the front-runners
liance on polls and instantaneous
thing of great value: their trust.
In this election year.
IT'S NOT POLITICS
USUAL
NEWS.
The election of the best presidential candidate requires an informed electorate.
At the New York Daily News, we are doing our level best to keep that electorate
informed. To that end, we have assembled the best columnists and writers in the
business for the 1988 election. People like Richard Reeves, Lars-Erik Nelson and
Frank Lombardi. Nobody covers the election like the Daily News.
1
DAILY@NEWS
WHITE HOUSE X MEMORANDUM
020777SS
Document No.
DATE: 3/28/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/28/89 4:00 PM
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, by 4:00 PM, TODAY, Tuesday, March 28,
1989, with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1933
( (Grant) )
D
March 27, 1989
9 a.m.
PROPOSED ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
(TO BE PRINTED AS A "MY TURN" ESSAY IN A MOCK ISSUE OF NEWSWEEK)
Fifty years ago, when the Overseas Press Club was founded,
the United States stood at the edge of entering World War II.
Despite our experiences in World War I, this nation was still
rather isolationist in its outlook. That war was far away, and
many considered it a "European war. As soon as it was over, our
men came home, and we began the return to normalization.
Such as
Then, soon enough, Hitler gained power. The entire world
was drawn into the war and Americans became more involved.
Foreign correspondents like Edward R. Murrow brought the battles
right into our living rooms by radio. Suddenly it was not just a
"European war." It was our war, too.
Much HAS
Bar hpatmig
THE BASICS of Neruty
-
AMC 17th SANS, But THE
In a sense, things have not changed since World War II. MEANS that
Developments overseas are brought to us instantaneously -- by charled dramatilly.
radio and newspaper still -- but also by television, computer,
and even by fax machine. We no longer gather around the wireless
listening to accounts of the war but the news we receive today
is often just as vital. Ad. n. Memai veiv " Few. Now, Price Ano
Brunght pan King Reems, cofte. Cimed-ted, .fte. Live. Alue,
-
In world politics, information travels at faster and faster
speeds. Most Americans know of an "international incident"
within minutes. Just as we can read about events thousands of
miles away, people on the other side of the world often know of
occurrences here as soon as we do. Developments in world affairs
are given coverage in the newspapers of the world, and the
evening news is full of diplomatic and international political
stories. Now there are very few people left in the world without
even a passing interest in superpower relations.
The nature of business has changed as well -- the round-the-
clock business at the American, Tokyo and London stock exchanges
ensure that international investors have a 24 hour-a-day job.
Business news wires have made information the currency of the
business world. What was once a lofty concept -- a global
economy -- is now a reality.
What used to be a rather novel idea, the fact that we are
entering "the information age," now is seen as a cliche of sorts.
Frankly, I see that as a good thing.
Similarly, the nature of reporting has changed as well.
Foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for the
length of their careers. While some still honor this tradition,
more and more correspondents are sent to a variety of posts in
different countries. But there is one constant amid the change:
foreign correspondents are information managers. They are an
integral part of the political, economic and social movements in
the world, because they relate these advances with speed and
accuracy.
The world is changing fast, and is often a very dangerous
place. Those correspondents who have put themselves in the line
of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places, deserve our
thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job many dream of --
but one which few actually endure. Their challenges are often
more than we here at home can imagine.
This brings me to the case of those journalists held in
foreign lands against their will. The American government
continues to work for their release through proper channels, and
hope for their freedom. We remain vigilant in our concern and
prayers.
The changes in international reporting have had a pivotal
role in public diplomacy. The press often is greatly involved in
the message that is projected to both our allies and our enemies,
and the nature of public discourse on events is affected greatly
as a result.
Many times, this has brought international politics out of
the back room, and into the public arena. I am reminded of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the news of the Bay
of Pigs and the Cuban missile crisis, during the increasing
involvement in Vietnam. "The chickens are coming home to roost,"
General MacArthur told the new President in 1961, "and you live
in the chicken house. "
of course, none of us look forward to hearing that those
chickens are heading home. But hearing the news is part of being
in the chicken house -- living in a democracy. The explosion of
information has placed a demand on democracy, but democratic
society is uniquely suited to such an extraordinary flow of
information, both incoming and outgoing. A free and open society
can prosper and survive in the information age, and foreign
correspondents are in many ways the lifeblood of survival.
Congratulations on fifty years of service and commitment to
the highest ideals -- freedom and truth. Thank you.
Newsweek
444 Madison Avenue New York, N. Y. 10022-6999
Jerrold K. Footlick
Mailin Any Chance - this I
Senior Editor
(212) 350-4728
Ca be done ?
I'm to the President
To:
Ann McDaniel
From: Jerry Footlick
is likely to be the
Re:
Presidential message
speaker Ba the Omerseas
tress Clu dinner in May.
Each year the Overseas Press Club, the nation's major
organization concerned with the reporting of
Thanks,
international affairs, holds an annual awards dinner.
A
program, in the form of a magazine, is distributed at
the banquet; it contains the names of the winners and a
Am
series of articles on a particular theme. Last year, for
example, People magazine produced the program/magazine,
using politics and privacy as its election-year theme.
1
This year Newsweek is producing it, and our theme is
particularly significant: The Overseas Press Club,
founded in the spring of 1939 on the eve of World War
II, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
We think it is important to have a message from
President Bush in the magazine. (For your information, I
am enclosing a photo-copy of a message in last year's
publication from President Reagan. You will notice it
uses the format of a People magazine story, with a
Ronald Reagan byline.) We would want to use the
President's message either as a My Turn or as a
Washington story of some other kind, with his byline.
We hope that the President would deal with international
affairs, preferably the reporting of them. The message
could be 700 words or so, which would fit one page, or
twice that long, and go on two pages. We will be pleased
with either. We would like to have the statement by
March 24, although a couple of days later would work.
If there is any other information you need, I will
supply it. Thanks for your help, and our thanks in
advance to officials at the White House.
James
DESPITE THE MEDIA'S SHORTCOMINGS,
SAYS THE PRESIDENT, THEIR SCRUTINY
HELPS KEEP DEMOCRACY WHOLE
by Ronald Reagan
1148
The President dons a gift trooper's hat after speaking to the National Law Enforcement Council in Washington, D.C., last year.
As
a young man growing up in the
tions across the country. Newspapers
homes. Some have said that televi-
Midwest, I remember the days of whis-
and magazines have improved their
sion has undermined the political pro-
tle-stops, classic stump oratory and
technology to keep pace with televi-
cess. On the contrary, I sometimes
radio reports of political campaigns. If
sion and continue to play a critical role
wonder where our modern democra-
my neighbors in Dixon, III., saw a na-
in campaign coverage. They print the
cy would be without it. Because this
tional candidate once in an election
longer stories that give depth to cam-
country is so large and national elec-
year, it was considered a near miracle.
paign news and offer the analysis that
tions are such enormous events, only
Today's voters get to know presi-
adds perspective. We rely on news-
television can establish a one-to-one
dential candidates even if they never
papers to carry the texts of major
communication between candidate
have the opportunity to see them in
speeches and campaign platforms
and citizen.
person. Nightly news programs, Sun-
and promises. And though they don't
The American people need to
day talk shows, televised debates and
always succeed, most newspapers
observe and listen to candidates
local interviews give us the chance to
still try hard to keep news-on the news
many times, in many different situa-
see more and learn more about those
pages and opinion on the opinion
tions. That is the best way to under-
who run for the nation's highest of-
pages.
stand their characters, feel confi-
fice than any generation before us.
I believe a living room is as good a
dent that they are individuals of
Televised campaign coverage,
place as anywhere to judge the fit-
integrity and grasp their positions
once almost exclusively the province
ness of a presidential candidate. and
on the important issues of our day
Reagan shows carrots, as well as sticks,
can win the political "horse race."
analysis about who is winning or los-
ing or what the impact of one specific
straw poll will be on the whole cam-
paign when, in fact, no one really
knows. This can be both misleading to
the public and damaging to the candi-
date. I recall, for example, that after I
fared poorly in the 1980 lowa Republi-
can caucuses, one veteran network
TV correspondent made the snap
judgment that my political career was
over. That was two Inaugural address-
es ago.
I have been the subject of intense
media scrutiny in every campaign in
which I participated. 1 have not always
agreed with everything that has been
reported. but on the whole the scruti-
ny probably helped me and turned out
to be good for the country and good
for the democratic process.
Anyone who hopes to occupy the
Oval Office must withstand intense
democratic society is all about.
in each party. But no candidate, and
scrutiny. That's the way it should be.
Reporters naturally give more at-
no voter, should take seriously the so-
Americans have high standards, and
tention to the candidate who appears
called horse-race coverage the me-
those who seek public service are
most likely to win, and the brightest
dia love so well. By that I mean the re-
asking the people to grant them some-
lights are thrown on the front-runners
liance on polls and instantaneous
thing of great value: their trust.
In this election year.
IT'S NOT POLITICS
USUAL
NEWS.
The election of the best presidential candidate requires an informed electorate.
At the New York Daily News, we are doing our level best to keep that electorate
informed. To that end, we have assembled the best columnists and writers in the
business for the 1988 election. People like Richard Reeves, Lars-Erik Nelson and
Frank Lombardi. Nobody covers the election like the Daily News.
T
DAILY@NEWS
Document No.
020777SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/28/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/28/89 4:00 PM
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, by 4:00 PM, TODAY, Tuesday, March 28,
1989, with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE: on
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
March 28, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR JIM CICCONI
FROM;
DENISE SCHWARZ DS
OFFICE OF CABINET AFFAIRS
SUBJECT;
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER
PROGRAM
LOG #020777SS
We have reviewed the attached and have no comments.
Attachment
CC: Chriss Winston
Document No.
020777SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/28/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/28/89 4:00 PM
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, by 4:00 PM, TODAY, Tuesday, March 28,
1989, with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
( (Grant))
March 27, 1989
9 a.m.
PROPOSED ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
(TO BE PRINTED AS A "MY TURN" ESSAY IN A MOCK ISSUE OF NEWSWEEK)
Fifty years ago, when the Overseas Press Club was founded,
the United States stood at the edge of entering World War II.
Despite our experiences in World War I, this nation was still
rather isolationist in its outlook. That war was far away, and
many considered it a "European war." As soon as it was over, our
men came home, and we began the return to normalization.
Then, soon enough, Hitler gained power. The entire world
was drawn into the war, and Americans became more involved.
Foreign correspondents like Edward R. Murrow brought the battles
right into our living rooms by radio. Suddenly it was not just a
"European war. It was our war, too.
In a sense, things have not changed since World War II.
Developments overseas are brought to us instantaneously -- by
radio and newspaper still -- but also by television, computer,
and even by fax machine. We no longer gather around the wireless
listening to accounts of the war, but the news we receive today
is often just as vital.
In world politics, information travels at faster and faster
speeds. Most Americans know of an "international incident"
within minutes. Just as we can read about events thousands of
miles away, people on the other side of the world often know of
occurrences here as soon as we do. Developments in world affairs
are given coverage in the newspapers of the world, and the
evening news is full of diplomatic and international political
stories. Now there are very few people left in the world without
even a passing interest in superpower relations.
The nature of business has changed as well -- the round-the-
clock business at the American, Tokyo and London stock exchanges
ensure that international investors have a 24 hour-a-day job.
Business news wires have made information the currency of the
business world. What was once a lofty concept -- a global
economy -- is now a reality.
What used to be a rather novel idea, the fact that we are
entering "the information age, " now is seen as a cliche of sorts.
Frankly, I see that as a good thing.
Similarly, the nature of reporting has changed as well.
Foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for the
length of their careers. While some still honor this tradition,
more and more correspondents are sent to a variety of posts in
different countries. But there is one constant amid the change:
foreign correspondents are information managers. They are an
integral part of the political, economic and social movements in
the world, because they relate these advances with speed and
accuracy.
The world is changing fast, and is often a very dangerous
place. Those correspondents who have put themselves in the line
of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places, deserve our
thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job many dream of --
but one which few actually endure. Their challenges are often
more than we here at home can imagine.
This brings me to the case of those journalists held in
foreign lands against their will. The American government
continues to work for their release through proper channels, and
hope for their freedom. We remain vigilant in our concern and
prayers.
The changes in international reporting have had a pivotal
role in public diplomacy. The press often is greatly involved in
the message that is projected to both our allies and our enemies,
and the nature of public discourse on events is affected greatly
as a result.
Many times, this has brought international politics out of
the back room, and into the public arena. I am reminded of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the news of the Bay
of Pigs and the Cuban missile crisis, during the increasing
involvement in Vietnam. "The chickens are coming home to roost,"
General MacArthur told the new President in 1961, "and you live
in the chicken house. "
Of course, none of us look forward to hearing that those
chickens are heading home. But hearing the news is part of being
in the chicken house -- living in a democracy. The explosion of
information has placed a demand on democracy, but democratic
society is uniquely suited to such an extraordinary flow of
information, both incoming and outgoing. A free and open society
can prosper and survive in the information age, and foreign
correspondents are in many ways the lifeblood of survival.
Congratulations on fifty years of service and commitment to
the highest ideals -- freedom and truth. Thank you.
Newsweek
444 Madison Avenue
New York, N. Y. 10022-6999
-
Jerrold K Footlick
Senior Editor
Mailin Ca Any be Chance done this ? I
(212) 350-4728
I'm to Id the President
To: Ann McDaniel
From: Jerry Footlick
is likely to be the
Re:
Presidential message
speaker Ba the Oneseas
tress Club) dinner in May.
Each year the Overseas Press Club, the nation's major
organization concerned with the reporting of
Thanks,
international affairs, holds an annual awards dinner.
A
program, in the form of a magazine, is distributed at
the banquet; it contains the names of the winners and a
An
series of articles on a particular theme. Last year, for
example, People magazine produced the program/magazine,
using politics and privacy as its election-year theme.
]
This year Newsweek is producing it, and our theme is
particularly significant: The Overseas Press Club,
founded in the spring of 1939 on the eve of World War
II, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
We think it is important to have a message from
President Bush in the magazine. (For your information, I
am enclosing a photo-copy of a message in last year's
publication from President Reagan. You will notice it
uses the format of a People magazine story, with a
Ronald Reagan byline.) We would want to use the
President's message either as a My Turn or as a
Washington story of some other kind, with his byline.
We hope that the President would deal with international
affairs, preferably the reporting of them. The message
could be 700 words or so, which would fit one page, or
twice that long, and go on two pages. We will be pleased
with either. We would like to have the statement by
March 24, although a couple of days later would work.
If there is any other information you need, I will
supply it. Thanks for your help, and our thanks in
advance to officials at the White House.
Jay
DESPITE THE MEDIA'S SHORTCOMINGS,
SAYS THE PRESIDENT, THEIR SCRUTINY
HELPS KEEP DEMOCRACY WHOLE
by Ronald Reagan
The President dons a gift trooper's hat after speaking to the National Law Enforcement Council in Washington, D.C., last year.
As
a young man growing up in the
tions across the country. Newspapers
homes. Some have said that televi-
Midwest, I remember the days of whis-
and magazines have improved their
sion has undermined the political pro-
tle-stops, classic stump oratory and
technology to keep pace with televi-
cess. On the contrary, I sometimes
radio reports of political campaigns. If
sion and continue to play a critical role
wonder where our modern democra-
my neighbors in Dixon, III., saw a na-
in campaign coverage. They print the
cy would be without it. Because this
tional candidate once in an election
longer stories that give depth to cam-
country is so large and national elec-
year, it was considered a near miracle.
paign news and offer the analysis that
tions are such enormous events, only
Today's voters get to know presi-
adds perspective. We rely on news-
television can establish a one-to-one
dential candidates even if they never
papers to carry the texts of major
communication between candidate
have the opportunity to see them in
speeches and campaign platforms
and citizen.
person. Nightly news programs. Sun-
and promises. And though they don't
The American people need to
day talk shows, televised debates and
always succeed. most newspapers
observe and listen to candidates
local interviews give us the chance to
still try hard to keep news on the news
many times, in many different situa-
see more and learn more about those
pages and opinion on the opinion
tions. That is the best way to under-
who run for the nation's highest of-
pages.
stand their characters, feel confi-
fice than any generation before us.
I believe a living room is as good a
dent that they are individuals of
as
fit_
Reagan shows carrots, as well as sticks,
can win the political "horse race."
analysis about who is winning or los-
ing or what the impact of one specific
straw poll will be on the whole cam-
paign when, in fact. no one really
knows. This can be both misleadire to
the public and damaging to the candi-
date. I recall, for example. that after I
fared poorly in the 1980 Iowa Republi-
can caucuses. one veteran network
TV correspondent made the snap
judgment that my political career was
over. That was two Inaugural address
es ago.
I have been the subject of intense
media scrutiny in every campaign in
which I participated. I have not alway
agreed with everything that has beer
reported. but on the whole the scruti
ny probably helped me and turned ou
to be good for the country and good
for the democratic process.
Anyone who hopes to occupy the
Oval Office must withstand intense
democratic society is all about.
in each party. But no candidate, and
scrutiny. That's the way it should be.
Reporters naturally give more at-
no voter. should take seriously the so-
Americans have high standards. and
tention to the candidate who appears
called horse-race coverage the me-
those who seek public service are
most likely to win, and the brightest
dia love so well. By that I mean the re-
asking the people to grant them som
lights are thrown on the front-runners
liance on polls and instantaneous
thing of great value: their trust.
In this election year.
IT'S NOT POLITICS
o-
USUAL
AT THE DAILY NEWS
The election of the best presidential candidate requires an informed electorate.
At the New York Daily News, we are doing our level best to keep that electorate
informed. To that end, we have assemb. ed the best columnists and writers in the
business for the 1988 election. People like Richard Reeves, Lars-Erik Nelson and
Frank Lombardi. Nobody covers the election like the Daily News.
I
DAILY@NFWS
020777SS
Document No.
RECEIVED IN OMB
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
39 MAR 8
DATE:
3/28/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/28/89 4:00 PM
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
>
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, by 4:00 PM, TODAY, Tuesday, March 28,
1989, with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See change
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
((Grant))
March 27, 1989
9 a.m.
PROPOSED ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
(TO BE PRINTED AS A "MY TURN" ESSAY IN A MOCK ISSUE OF NEWSWEEK)
Fifty years ago, when the Overseas Press Club was founded,
the United States stood at the edge of entering World War II.
Despite our experiences in World War I, this nation was still
rather isolationist in its outlook. That war was far away, and
Edwals
many considered it a "European war. As soon as it was over, our
3080
men came home, and we began the return to normalization. Normaley.
Then, soon enough, Hitler gained power. The entire world
was drawn into the war, and Americans became more involved.
Foreign correspondents like Edward R. Murrow brought the battles
right into our living rooms by radio. Suddenly it was not just a
"European war." It was our war, too.
In a sense, things have not changed since World War II.
Developments overseas are brought to us instantaneously -- by
radio and newspaper still -- but also by television, computer,
and even by fax machine. We no longer gather around the wireless
listening to accounts of the war, but the news we receive today
is often just as vital.
In world politics, information travels at faster and faster
speeds. Most Americans know of an "international incident"
within minutes. Just as we can read about events thousands of
miles away, people on the other side of the world often know of
occurrences here as soon as we do. Developments in world affairs
are given coverage in the newspapers of the world, and the
evening news is full of diplomatic and international political
stories. Now there are very few people left in the world without
even a passing interest in superpower relations.
The nature of business has changed as well -- the round-the-
clock business at the American, Tokyo and London stock exchanges
ensure that international investors have a 24 hour-a-day job.
Business news wires have made information the currency of the
business world. What was once a lofty concept -- a global
economy -- is now a reality.
What used to be a rather novel idea, the fact that we are
entering "the information age," now is seen as a cliche of sorts.
Frankly, I see that as a good thing.
Similarly, the nature of reporting has changed as well.
Foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for the
length of their careers. While some still honor this tradition,
more and more correspondents are sent to a variety of posts in
different countries. But there is one constant amid the change:
foreign correspondents are information managers. They are an
integral part of the political, economic and social movements in
the world, because they relate these advances with speed and
accuracy.
The world is changing fast, and is often a very dangerous
place. Those correspondents who have put themselves in the line
of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places, deserve our
thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job many dream of --
but one which few actually endure. Their challenges are often
more than we here at home can imagine.
This brings me to the case of those journalists held in
foreign lands against their will. The American government
continues to work for their release through proper channels, and
hope for their freedom. We remain vigilant in our concern and
prayers.
The changes in international reporting have had a pivotal
role in public diplomacy. The press often is greatly involved in
the message that is projected to both our allies and our enemies,
and the nature of public discourse on events is affected greatly
as a result.
Many times, this has brought international politics out of
the back room, and into the public arena. I am reminded of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the news of the Bay
of Pigs and the Cuban missile crisis, during the increasing
involvement in Vietnam. "The chickens are coming home to roost,"
General MacArthur told the new President in 1961, "and you live
in the chicken house.'
of course, none of us look forward to hearing that those
chickens are heading home. But hearing the news is part of being
in the chicken house -- living in a democracy. The explosion of
information has placed a demand on democracy, but democratic
society is uniquely suited to such an extraordinary flow of
information, both incoming and outgoing. A free and open society
can prosper and survive in the information age, and foreign
correspondents are in many ways the lifeblood of survival.
Congratulations on fifty years of service and commitment to
the highest ideals -- freedom and truth. Thank you.
Newsweek
444 Madison Avenue New York, N. Y. 10022-6999
Jerrold K. Footlick
Marlin Any Chance - this I
Senior Editor
350-4728
Ca be done ?
I'm to the President
To:
Ann McDaniel
From: Jerry Footlick
is likely to be the
Re:
Presidential message
speaker Ba the Omerseas
tress Clul dinner in May
Each year the Overseas Press Club, the nation's major
organization concerned with the reporting of
Thanks,
international affairs, holds an annual awards dinner. A
program, in the form of a magazine, is distributed at
the banquet; it contains the names of the winners and a
An
series of articles on a particular theme. Last year, for
example, People magazine produced the program/magazine,
using politics and privacy as its election-year theme.
1
This year Newsweek is producing it, and our theme is
particularly significant: The Overseas Press Club,
founded in the spring of 1939 on the eve of World War
II, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
We think it is important to have a message from
President Bush in the magazine. (For your information, I
am enclosing a photo-copy of a message in last year's
publication from President Reagan. You will notice it
uses the format of a People magazine story, with a
Ronald Reagan byline.) We would want to use the
President's message either as a My Turn or as a
Washington story of some other kind, with his byline.
We hope that the President would deal with international
affairs, preferably the reporting of them. The message
could be 700 words or so, which would fit one page, or
twice that long, and go on two pages. We will be pleased
with either. We would like to have the statement by
March 24, although a couple of days later would work.
If there is any other information you need, I will
supply it. Thanks for your help, and our thanks in
advance to officials at the White House.
Jamy
DESPITE THE MEDIA'S SHORTCOMINGS,
SAYS THE PRESIDENT, THEIR SCRUTINY
HELPS KEEP DEMOCRACY WHOLE
by Ronald Reagan
TIME
The President dons a gift trooper's hat after speaking to the National Law Enforcement Council in Washington, D.C., last year.
As
a young man growing up in the
tions across the country. Newspapers
homes. Some have said that televi-
Midwest, I remember the days of whis-
and magazines have improved their
sion has undermined the political pro-
tle-stops, classic stump oratory and
technology to keep pace with televi-
cess. On the contrary, 1 sometimes
radio reports of political campaigns. If
sion and continue to play a critical role
wonder where our modern democra-
my neighbors in Dixon, III., saw a na-
in campaign coverage. They print the
cy would be without it. Because this
tional candidate once in an election
longer stories that give depth to cam-
country is so large and national elec-
year, it was considered a near miracle.
paign news and offer the analysis that
tions are such enormous events, only
Today's voters get to know presi-
adds perspective. We rely on news-
television can establish a one-to-one
dential candidates even if they never
papers to carry the texts of major
communication between candidate
have the opportunity to see them in
speeches and campaign platforms
and citizen.
person. Nightly news programs, Sun-
and promises. And though they don't
The American people need to
day talk shows, televised debates and
always succeed, most newspapers
observe and listen to candidates
local interviews give us the chance to
still try hard to keep news on the news
many times, in many different situa-
see more and learn more about those
pages and opinion on the opinion
tions. That is the best way to under-
who run for the nation's highest of-
pages.
stand their characters, feel confi-
fice than any generation before us.
I believe a living room is as good a
dent that they are individuals of
Televised campaign coverage,
place as anywhere to judge the fit-
integrity and grasp their positions
once almost exclusively the province
ness of a presidential candidate, and
on the important issues of our day.
Reagan shows carrots, as well as sticks,
can win the political "horse race."
analysis about who is winning or los-
ing or what the impact of one specific
straw poll will be on the whole cam-
paign when, in fact, no one really
knows. This can be both misleading to
the public and damaging to the candi-
date. I recall, for example, that after I
fared poorly in the 1980 lowa Republi-
can caucuses, one veteran network
TV correspondent made the snap
judgment that my political career was
over. That was two Inaugural address-
es ago.
I have been the subject of intense
media scrutiny in every campaign in
which I participated. I have not always
agreed with everything that has been
reported. but on the whole the scruti-
ny probably helped me and turned out
to be good for the country and good
for the democratic process.
Anyone who hopes to occupy the
Oval Office must withstand intense
democratic society is all about.
in each party. But no candidate, and
scrutiny. That's the way it should be.
Reporters naturally give more at-
no voter, should take seriously the so-
Americans have high standards, and
tention to the candidate who appears
called horse-race coverage the me-
those who seek public service are
most likely to win, and the brightest
dia love so well. By that I mean the re-
asking the people to grant them some-
lights are thrown on the front-runners
liance on polls and instantaneous
thing of great value: their trust.
In this election year.
IT'S NOT POLITICS
o-
USUAL
NEWS.
The election of the best presidential candidate requires an informed electorate.
At the New York Daily News, we are doing our level best to keep that electorate
informed. To that end, we have assembled the best columnists and writers in the
business for the 1988 election. People like Richard Reeves, Lars-Erik Nelson and
Frank Lombardi. Nobody covers the election like the Daily News.
d
DAILY@NEWS
Counsel's office changes
P2 P.1 line 4 delete "because" and
instt
(as They strive) to relate
P6 mie / looks forward
P6 nelt to last line :
in 1961 at the time
PPI page / "normalcy."
as per Nelson hund 6 pm 3/28
Pinkerton: Onuke in the public diplomacy H
2
no
3
they are not information managers
nor an "integral" part of world movements
020777SS
Document No.
2100
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 3/28/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/28/89 4:00 PM
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, by 4:00 PM, TODAY, Tuesday, March 28,
1989, with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
March 28, 1989
TO: Chriss winston
NSC concurs, with changes 8:50 marked.
8
James W. Cicconi
Brent Scowcroft
Assistant to the President
CC: James W. Cicconi
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1903
( (Grant))
MR
March 27, 1989
9 a.m.
PROPOSED ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
(TO BE PRINTED AS A "MY TURN" ESSAY IN A MOCK ISSUE OF NEWSWEEK)
--World
Fifty years ago, when the Overseas Press Club was founded,
been
the United States stood at the edge of entering World War II.
Despite our experiences in World War I, this nátion was still
Confusing
rather isolationist in its outlook. That war WAS far away, and
many considered it a "European war. As soon as it was over, our
sequence-- men came home, and we began the return to Gormalization, "normalcy."
all too a second)
(Harding's
make
clearerthat
Then soon/enough? Hitler gained power. The entire world
word)
was drawn into the war, and Americans became more involved.
7454
Foreign correspondents like Edward R. Murrow brought the battles
flashback
right into our living rooms by radio. Suddenly it was not just a
"European war." It was our war, too.
In a sense, things have not changed since World War II.
Developments overseas are brought to us instantaneously -- by
radio and newspaper still -- but also by television, computer,
and even by fax machine. We no longer gather around the wireless
listening to accounts of the war, but the news we receive today
is often just as vital.
lately
In world politics, information travels at faster and faster
speeds. Most Americans know of an "international incident"
within minutes. Just as we can read about events thousands of
miles away, people on the other side of the world often know of
occurrences here as soon as we do. Developments in world affairs
are given coverage in the newspapers of the world, and the
television
evening news is full of diplomatic and international political
stories. Now there are very few people left in the world without
even a passing interest in superpower relations.
The nature of business has changed as well -- the round-the-
clock business at the American, Tokyo and London stock exchanges
ensure that international investors have a 24 hour-a-day job.
Business news wires have made information the currency of the
business world. What was once a lofty concept -- a global
economy -- is now a reality.
What used to be a rather novel idea, the fact that we are
entering "the information age, " now is seen as a cliche of sorts.
Pmk.
Frankly, I see that as a good thing. Let 's think about what this means.
next to last TP
Similarly, the nature of reporting has changed as well?
Foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for the
length of their careers. While some still honor this tradition,
more and more correspondents are sent to a variety of posts in a series of
different countries. But there is one constant amid the change:
pink
foreign correspondents are information managers. They are an
integral part of the political, economic and social movements in
the world, because they relate these advances with speed and
objects
accuracy.
The world is changing fast, and is often a very dangerous
place. Those correspondents who have put themselves in the line
of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places, deserve our
C
thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job many dream of
but one which few actually engure. Their challenges are often
more than we here at home can imagine.
This brings me to the case of those journalists held in
foreign lands against their will. The American government
continues to work for their release through proper channels, and
hopes for their freedom. We remain vigilant in our concern and
prayers.
The changes in international reporting have had a pivotal
Pink
role in public diplomacy. The press often is greatly involved in
the message that is projected to both our allies and our enemies,
shos
and the nature of public discourse on events is affected greatly
cut
as a result.
Many times, this has brought international politics out of
the back room, and into the public arena. I am reminded of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the news of the Bay
Cuban
of Pigs and the Cuban missile crisis, during the increasing
(nyis
was
involvement in Vietnam. "The chickens are coming home to roost,' "
General MacArthur told the new President in 1961, "and you live
Oct.1962
Pink
Oct
in the chicken house. "
objects
of course, none of us look forward to hearing that those
chickens are heading home. But hearing the news is part of being
in the chicken house -- living in a democracy. The explosion of
information has placed a demand on democracy, but democratic
society is uniquely suited to such an extraordinary flow of
information, both incoming and outgoing. A free and open society
can prosper and survive in the information age, and foreign
correspondents are in many ways the lifeblood of survival.
Congratulations on fifty years of service and commitment to
the highest ideals -- freedom and truth. Thank you.
an
When the Overseas Press Club was founded, 50 years ago, the
isolationist
United States stood at the edge of entering World War II. It was
a far away war, a "European war," and we learned most of the news
of that war through foreign correspondents.
Edward R. Murrow was the voice that brought many of us
together around the radio in our living rooms, describing the
tragedy of war. Suddenly, it wasn't just a "European war," it was
our war, too.
while Much has changed since that timex The basic tenets of news
was meus is ed, however
reporting haven't changed. But the means of delivery of news has
Changed
evolved dramatically. We still get our news via radio and
newspapers, but also by computer, fax machine and television.
Edward R. Murrow's voice is gone. But, now, pictures are brought
into our living room, often live pictures of events that unfold
as we watch.
be tween How
The-difference$ in the impact of reporting on World War II
were covered
and the Vietnam war, are the thing of text books The reporting
changed the way many Americans viewed war, for better or worse.
The speed with which information is now passed along has also
contributed largely, also to what once was a lofty concept -- a
global economy. The round-the-dlock business at the American,
Insent A
Tokyo and London stock exchanges ensure that international
investors have a 24-hour-a-day job. Business news wires have made
information the currency of the business world.
Page 2
All this is good. It is progress. But, as we make our way
speedily toward new and probably even faster ways of
communications, we also must step back and think. The competition
in the information business is intense -- both news and business
information. It means everyone involved in the industry must take
their responsibilities even more seriously.
You are information managers. People buy and sell stocks,
bonds, real estate, and commodities partly based on information
electronic media.
that comes across the wires or the various tubes. Political
decisions can be altered based on information that is carried on
is unique in its
television or radio or in print. Our country has a full history
historic protection of freedomofte
of the importance of the press. And the press has a full unique history
that tradition
of responsible reporting.
(today) of accuracy and
With the speed with which information is transferred, we
releasibility
mont b
becomes
must never lose sight that the main job of the news industry is
evang Erucial
passing on accurate information to the public. A little less
speed is a legitimate sacrifice to make for accuracy.
That's the public side of international reporting. The side
that many people take for granted is the great sacrifices foreign
correspondents make. The risks they take, putting themselves in
the line of fire. They deserve our thanks, and our admiration.
The challenges they face are often more than we at home can even
imagine.
Page 3
And, there are those who are never out of our prayers --
d.
those journalists held in foreign lands against their will. We
continue to work for their release and pray for their freedom and
their return to their families. We are even vigilant in our
concern and work for their release.
International reporting also has played a great role in
educating all peoples of the world on foreign diplomacy. The
press plays a daily role in the message that is projected to both
our allies and our adversaries, and the nature of public
disclosure is affected greatly as a result.
Often, this has brought international politics out of the
back room, and into the public arena. There is the story of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the news of the Bay
of Pigs and the Cuban missile crisis, during the increasing
involvement in Vietnam. "The chickens are coming home to roost,"
Gen. MacArthur told the new President in 1961, "and you live in
the chicken house.
Hearing the news is part of being in the chicken house --
living in a democracy. The information explosion has placed a
demand on democracy, but democratic society is uniquely suited to
such an extraordinary flow of information, both incoming and
outgoing. A free and open society can prosper and survive in the
information age, and foreign correspondents are in many ways the
lifeblood of that survival.
insert C + d
insert
P
Page 4
Fifty years of service and commitment to the highest ideals
-- freedom and truth. Congratulations.
3/28/89
PROPOSED ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
(TO BE PRINTED AS A "MY TURN" ESSAY IN A MOCK ISSUE OF NEWSWEEK)
Foreign correspondents have a difficult job. All too often
in our world, this still includes escaping censorship. But I
never underestimate the resourcefulness of American correspon-
dents. I know that once Irving R. Levine wanted to report on a
Soviet banquet at which some of the leadership had drunk too
freely. But he also wanted to get his report past the censor.
So he reported that there were fireworks in the sky and that "the
Soviet leaders were equally lit up.
Fifty years ago, when the Overseas Press Club was founded,
the world teetered on the verge of the Second World War. This
nation was still broadly isolationist in its outlook. When the
war came, many considered it solely a "European war."
But this war was different, even from the First World War
twenty years earlier. Most nations of the world were drawn into
the war, and Americans themselves became involved. Foreign
correspondents like Edward R. Murrow brought the battles right
into our living rooms by radio. Suddenly, it was not just a
"European war, but in some sense, it was our war, too.
Today, developments overseas are still brought to us by
radio and newspaper -- but they are also brought instantaneously
2
by television, computer, and even by fax machine. We no longer
gather around the wireless to listen to accounts of world events,
but the news Americans receive today from abroad is often just as
vital.
The developments of the past fifty years have meant that few
people in the world have the luxury of maintaining no interest in
world affairs, in developments that affect their lives directly.
Today, information travels at faster and faster speeds. Most
Americans hear about a major international event within minutes.
And just as we read and hear about events thousands of miles
away, so people on the other side of the world often hear of
events here as soon as we do. Developments in world affairs are
given full coverage in world newspapers and magazines, and the
evening news is full of diplomatic and international stories.
The nature of business has changed as well. Round the clock
trading at American and foreign financial markets ensures that
Insert
international investors have a 24-hour-a-day job, for the news
that moves markets never stops. Business news wires have made
information the currency of the financial world. What was once a
lofty concept -- a global marketplace -- is now a reality.
Similarly, the nature of reporting has changed as well.
Foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for the
length of their careers. While some still honor this tradition,
more and more correspondents are sent to a variety of posts in
different countries. But no matter where they serve, foreign
correspondents are an integral part of the political, economic,
3
and social movements in the world, because they relate these
events with speed and accuracy.
As you know better than few others, the world today is often
a dangerous place. Those correspondents who have put themselves
in the line of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places,
deserve our thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job
which many dream of -- but one which few actually endure. Their
challenges are often more than we at home can imagine.
This reminds me of the cases of those journalists held in
foreign lands against their will. The American government
continues to work for their release through proper channels and
to hope for their freedom. We remain vigilant in our concern and
prayers.
Changes in international reporting have had a pivotal role
in public diplomacy. The press is often greatly involved in the
message that is projected to both our allies and our adversaries,
and the nature of public discourse is likewise affected as a
result.
Many times, this has brought international politics out of
the back room and into the public arena. I am reminded of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the Bay of Pigs.
"The chickens are coming home to roost," General Douglas
MacArthur told the President, "and you live in the chicken
house."
Of course, none of us looks forward to hearing that the
chickens are heading home. But hearing the news is part of being
4
in the chicken house -- living in a democracy. The explosion of
information has placed a demand on democracy, but democratic
society is uniquely suited to an extraordinary flow of
information. Only a free and open society can prosper in the
information age, and foreign correspondents add immeasurably to
American life.
I'm proud of the role that American correspondents have
played in bringing America closer to the world and in sharing
America with others. American correspondents have pioneered in
the use of new technologies to bring the news faster and more
reliably to all citizens of the world. And American publications
and broadcasts have served as models for other nations.
What used to be a rather novel idea, the notion that we are
entering "the information age," is now seen as a cliche of sorts.
Frankly, I see that as a good thing.
Congratulations on fifty years of service and commitment to
the highest ideals -- freedom and truth. May God bless you
wherever your paths take you in the future.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 28, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
MARLIN FITZWATER Mail
SUBJECT:
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB ARTICLE
The circulated version of the article has some good themes in it.
We've added some ideas and offer this version as a substitute.
Attachment
CC: Jim Cicconi
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 29, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR DAVID DEMAREST
FROM:
John S. Gardner Jrs,
SUBJECT:
Overseas Press Club Article
Jim's (private) comment to me when I showed him the draft of
this article before staffing was that it needed work. In the
hope of saving some time on this matter, therefore, I spent about
a half-hour making some suggestions for the draft. These
primarily consisted of correcting historical inaccuracies at the
beginning; adding what I thought was a humorous anecdote, given
the President's desire for more humor in his remarks; and adding
a paragraph towards the end reflecting the President's pride in
the accomplishments of American journalists. I then showed this
to Mary Kate this morning after she commented to me that Jim
Pinkerton did not like the story about chicken houses and that
she was trying to find another anecdote. In no sense was I
ordering, or even asking, her to make these changes or any other
changes, and I think she understands that.
What I gave to Mary Kate maintained the bulk of the draft,
both in the order of subjects discussed and much of its wording.
I retyped this not because I wanted to substitute my work for
hers, but simply because it was difficult to read the
single-spaced draft provided for staffing. Of course, the draft
you submitted is the operative draft. We merely review the draft
before it goes to the President so that we can be sure that all
relevant comments have been incorporated or that there are good
reasons why they have not been.
I apologize if I appeared to be stepping out of turn. I
assure you that I was not trying to criticize either Mary Kate --
someone for whose abilities I have very high regard -- or the
operation of your division.
MASTERI
020777SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/28/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/28/89 4:00 PM
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE no comments
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
no comments
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST no comments.
FITZWATER
GRAY nelson Lund
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, by 4:00 PM, TODAY, Tuesday, March 28,
1989, with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
NEWSWEEK
FAX:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
( (Grant))
MAR
March 27, 1989
9 a.m.
PROPOSED ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
(TO BE PRINTED AS A "MY TURN" ESSAY IN A MOCK ISSUE OF NEWSWEEK)
Fifty years ago, when the Overseas Press Club was founded,
the United States stood at the edge of entering World War II.
Despite our experiences in World War I, this nation was still
rather isolationist in its outlook. That war was far away, and
many considered it a "European war. As soon as it was over, our
men came home, and we began the return to normalization.
Then, soon enough, Hitler gained power. The entire world
was drawn into the war, and Americans became more involved.
Foreign correspondents like Edward R. Murrow brought the battles
right into our living rooms by radio. Suddenly it was not just a
"European war." It was our war, too.
In a sense, things have not changed since World War II.
Developments overseas are brought to us instantaneously -- by
radio and newspaper still -- but also by television, computer,
and even by fax machine. We no longer gather around the wireless
listening to accounts of the war, but the news we receive today
is often just as vital.
In world politics, information travels at faster and faster
speeds. Most Americans know of an "international incident"
within minutes. Just as we can read about events thousands of
miles away, people on the other side of the world often know of
occurrences here as soon as we do. Developments in world affairs
are given coverage in the newspapers of the world, and the
evening news is full of diplomatic and international political
stories. Now there are very few people left in the world without
even a passing interest in superpower relations.
The nature of business has changed as well -- the round-the-
clock business at the American, Tokyo and London stock exchanges
ensure that international investors have a 24 hour-a-day job.
Business news wires have made information the currency of the
business world. What was once a lofty concept -- a global
economy -- is now a reality.
What used to be a rather novel idea, the fact that we are
entering "the information age, " now is seen as a cliche of sorts.
Frankly, I see that as a good thing.
Similarly, the nature of reporting has changed as well.
Foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for the
length of their careers. While some still honor this tradition,
more and more correspondents are sent to a variety of posts in
different countries. But there is one constant amid the change:
foreign correspondents are information managers. They are an
integral part of the political, economic and social movements in
the world, because they relate these advances with speed and
accuracy.
The world is changing fast, and is often a very dangerous
place. Those correspondents who have put themselves in the line
of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places, deserve our
thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job many dream of --
but one which few actually endure. Their challenges are often
more than we here at home can imagine.
This brings me to the case of those journalists held in
foreign lands against their will. The American government
continues to work for their release through proper channels, and
hope for their freedom. We remain vigilant in our concern and
prayers.
The changes in international reporting have had a pivotal
role in public diplomacy. The press often is greatly involved in
the message that is projected to both our allies and our enemies,
and the nature of public discourse on events is affected greatly
as a result.
Many times, this has brought international politics out of
the back room, and into the public arena. I am reminded of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the news of the Bay
of Pigs and the Cuban missile crisis, during the increasing
involvement in Vietnam. "The chickens are coming home to roost,"
General MacArthur told the new President in 1961, "and you live
in the chicken house. "
of course, none of us look forward to hearing that those
chickens are heading home. But hearing the news is part of being
in the chicken house -- living in a democracy. The explosion of
information has placed a demand on democracy, but democratic
society is uniquely suited to such an extraordinary flow of
information, both incoming and outgoing. A free and open society
can prosper and survive in the information age, and foreign
correspondents are in many ways the lifeblood of survival.
Congratulations on fifty years of service and commitment to
the highest ideals -- freedom and truth. Thank you.
Newsweek
444 Madison Avenue
New York, N. Y. 10022-6999
Jerrold K. Footlick
Marlin Any Chance this I
Senior Editor
(212) 350-4728
Ca be done ?
I'm to Id the President
To: Ann McDaniel
From: Jerry Footlick
is likely to be the
Re:
Presidential message
specialing the Oneseas
tress dinner in May.
Each year the Overseas Press Club, the nation's major
organization concerned with the reporting of
Thanks,
international affairs, holds an annual awards dinner. A
program, in the form of a magazine, is distributed at
the banquet; it contains the names of the winners and a
An
series of articles on a particular theme. Last year, for
example, People magazine produced the program/magazine,
using politics and privacy as its election-year theme.
This year Newsweek is producing it, and our theme is
]
particularly significant: The Overseas Press Club,
founded in the spring of 1939 on the eve of World War
II, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
We think it is important to have a message from
President Bush in the magazine. (For your information, I
am enclosing a photo-copy of a message in last year's
publication from President Reagan. You will notice it
uses the format of a People magazine story, with a
Ronald Reagan byline.) We would want to use the
President's message either as a My Turn or as a
Washington story of some other kind, with his byline.
We hope that the President would deal with international
affairs, preferably the reporting of them. The message
could be 700 words or so, which would fit one page, or
twice that long, and go on two pages. We will be pleased
with either. We would like to have the statement by
March 24, although a couple of days later would work.
If there is any other information you need, I will
supply it. Thanks for your help, and our thanks in
advance to officials at the White House.
James
DESPITE THE MEDIA'S SHORTCOMINGS,
SAYS THE PRESIDENT, THEIR SCRUTINY
HELPS KEEP DEMOCRACY WHOLE
by Ronald Reagan
INIE
The President dons a gift trooper's hat after speaking to the National Law Enforcement Council in Washington, D.C., last year.
As
a young man growing up in the
tions across the country. Newspapers
homes. Some have said that televi-
Midwest, I remember the days of whis-
and magazines have improved their
sion has undermined the political pro-
tle-stops, classic stump oratory and
technology to keep pace with televi-
cess. On the contrary, I sometimes
radio reports of political campaigns. If
sion and continue to play a critical role
wonder where our modern democra-
my neighbors in Dixon, III., saw a na-
in campaign coverage. They print the
cy would be without it. Because this
tional candidate once in an election
longer stories that give depth to cam-
country is so large and national elec-
year, it was considered a near miracle.
paign news and offer the analysis that
tions are such enormous events, only
Today's voters get to know presi-
adds perspective. We rely on news-
television can establish a one-to-one
dential candidates even if they never
papers to carry the texts of major
communication between candidate
have the opportunity to see them in
speeches and campaign platforms
and citizen.
person. Nightly news programs, Sun-
and promises. And though they don't
The American people need to
day talk shows, televised debates and
always succeed, most newspapers
observe and listen to candidates
local interviews give us the chance to
still try hard to keep news on the news
many times, in many different situa-
see more and learn more about those
pages and opinion on the opinion
tions. That is the best way to under-
who run for the nation's highest of-
pages.
stand their characters, feel confi-
fice than any generation before us.
I believe a living room is as good a
dent that they are individuals of
Televised campaign coverage,
place as anywhere to judge the fit-
integrity and grasp their positions
almost exclusively
2
Reagan shows carrots, as well as sticks,
can win the political "horse race."
analysis about who is winning or los-
ing or what the impact of one specific
straw poll will be on the whole cam-
paign when, in fact, no one really
knows. This can be both misleading to
the public and damaging to the candi-
date. I recall, for example, that after I
fared poorly in the 1980 lowa Republi-
can caucuses, one veteran network
TV correspondent made the snap
judgment that my political career was
over. That was two Inaugural address-
es ago.
I have been the subject of intense
media scrutiny in every campaign in
which I participated. 1 have not always
agreed with everything that has been
reported. but on the whole the scruti-
ny probably helped me and turned out
to be good for the country and good
for the democratic process.
Anyone who hopes to occupy the
Oval Office must withstand intense
democratic society is all about.
in each party. But no candidate, and
scrutiny. That's the way it should be.
Reporters naturally give more at-
no voter, should take seriously the so-
Americans have high standards. and
tention to the candidate who appears
called horse-race coverage the me-
those who seek public service are
most likely to win, and the brightest
dia love so well. By that I mean the re-
asking the people to grant them some-
lights are thrown on the front-runners
liance on polls and instantaneous
thing of great value: their trust.
In this election year.
IT'S NOT POLITICS
o-
USUAL
DAILY EWS.
The election of the best presidential candidate requires an informed electorate.
At the New York Daily News, we are doing our level best to keep that electorate
informed. To that end, we have assembled the best columnists and writers in the
business for the 1988 election. People like Richard Reeves, Lars-Erik Nelson and
Frank Lombardi. Nobody covers the election like the Daily News.
3
DAILY@NEWS
FINAL
ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
When the Overseas Press Club was founded, 50 years ago, an
isolationist United States stood at the edge of entering World
War II. It was a far away war, a "European War," and we learned
most of the news of that war through foreign correspondents.
Edward R. Murrow was the voice that brought many of us
together around the radio in our living rooms, describing the
tragedy of war. Suddenly, it wasn't just a "European war," it
was our war, too.
While the basic tenets of news reporting haven't changed
much since that time, the way news is delivered has changed
dramatically. We still get our news via radio and newspapers,
but also by computer, fax machine and television. Edward R.
Murrow's voice is gone. Now pictures are brought into our living
rooms, often live pictures of events that unfold as we watch.
The nature of business has changed as well. Round the clock
trading at American and foreign financial markets ensures that
international investors have a 24-hour-a-day job, for the news
that moves markets never stops. Business news wires have made
information the currency of the financial world. What was once a
lofty concept -- a global marketplace -- is now a reality.
All this is good. It is progress. But, as we make our way
speedily toward new and probably even faster ways of
communications, we also must step back and think. The
competition in the information business is intense -- both in
hard news and business information.
You are information managers. People buy and sell stocks,
bonds, real estate and commodities partly based on information
that comes across the wires or the various electronic media.
Political decisions can be altered based on information that is
carried on television or radio or in print.
Our country is unique in its historic protection of freedom
of the press. And the press has a unique history of responsible
reporting. With the speed with which information is transferred
today, that tradition of accuracy and reliability becomes even
more crucial.
International reporting has played a great role in educating
all peoples of the world on foreign diplomacy. The press plays a
daily role in the message that is projected to both our allies
and our adversaries, and the nature of public disclosure is
affected greatly as a result.
The information explosion has placed a demand on democracy,
but a democratic society is uniquely suited to such an
extraordinary flow of information, both incoming and outgoing. A
free and open society can prosper and survive in the information
age, and foreign correspondents are in many ways the lifeblood of
that survival.
The world is changing fast, and is often a very dangerous
place. Those correspondents who have put themselves in the line
of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places, deserve our
thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job many dream of --
but one which few actually dare to undertake. Their challenges
are often more than we here at home can imagine.
And, there are those who are never out of our prayers --
those journalists held in foreign lands against their will. We
continue to work for their release and pray for their freedom and
their return to their families. We are ever vigilant in our
concern and work for their release.
I'm proud of the role that American correspondents have
played in bringing America closer to the world and in sharing
America with others. American correspondents have pioneered in
the use of new technologies to bring the news faster and more
reliably to all citizens of the world. And American publications
and broadcasts have served as models for other nations.
Fifty years of service and commitment to the highest ideals
-- freedom and truth. Congratulations.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 28, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS A. WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
NELSON LUND nf
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Proposed Presidential Article for Overseas
Press Club Dinner Program to be Printed as a
"My Turn" Essay in a Mock Issue of Newsweek
This memorandum will confirm our oral advice to your office that
Counsel's office has reviewed the above-referenced proposed
Presidential article, and we have no legal objection to it being
printed as a "My Turn" essay in a mock issue of Newsweek.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to review this matter.
CC: James W. Cicconi
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 28, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER
RBP
SUBJECT:
Proposed Article for Overseas Press Club
Dinner Program
The thrust of the proposed article for the Overseas Press
Club Dinner program is fine in acknowledging and supporting
the vital role played by overseas correspondents. My sugges-
tions are brief:
1. At the bottom of the first page the text says that
"foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for
the length of their careers." I am skeptical about whether
that is factually accurate. I shared the platform some months
ago with Howard K. Smith and we spent several hours together
returning to Washington from Williamsburg by car. During
the course of our conversation I inquired about his career
as a journalist and also as a television correspondent. In
our discussion he noted the frequent changes of assignments
that characterized his profession.
2. I wish that there were a different example that we
might use than the "chickens are coming home to roost" illus-
tration found on page two relating to how international poli-
tics has been transformed by the media. I don't have a great
alternative off the top of my head. I do, however, think that
this illustration could be improved on.
If you have any questions, please let me know.
CC: James W. Cicconi
020777SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/28/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/28/89 4:00 PM
PROPOSED ARTICLE FOR OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, by 4:00 PM, TODAY, Tuesday, March 28,
1989, with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext 2702
( (Grant))
MAR
March 27, 1989
9 a.m.
PROPOSED ARTICLE BY PRESIDENT BUSH
OVERSEAS PRESS CLUB DINNER PROGRAM
(TO BE PRINTED AS A "MY TURN" ESSAY IN A MOCK ISSUE OF NEWSWEEK)
Fifty years ago, when the Overseas Press Club was founded,
the United States stood at the edge of entering World War II.
Despite our experiences in World War I, this nation was still
rather isolationist in its outlook. That war was far away, and
many considered it a "European war." As soon as it was over, our
men came home, and we began the return to normalization.
Then, soon enough, Hitler gained power. The entire world
was drawn into the war, and Americans became more involved.
Foreign correspondents like Edward R. Murrow brought the battles
right into our living rooms by radio. Suddenly it was not just a
"European war. It was our war, too.
In a sense, things have not changed since World War II.
Developments overseas are brought to us instantaneously -- by
radio and newspaper still -- but also by television, computer,
and even by fax machine. We no longer gather around the wireless
listening to accounts of the war, but the news we receive today
is often just as vital.
In world politics, information travels at faster and faster
speeds. Most Americans know of an "international incident"
within minutes. Just as we can read about events thousands of
miles away, people on the other side of the world often know of
occurrences here as soon as we do. Developments in world affairs
are given coverage in the newspapers of the world, and the
evening news is full of diplomatic and international political
stories. Now there are very few people left in the world without
even a passing interest in superpower relations.
The nature of business has changed as well -- the round-the-
clock business at the American, Tokyo and London stock exchanges
ensure that international investors have a 24 hour-a-day job.
Business news wires have made information the currency of the
business world. What was once a lofty concept -- a global
economy -- is now a reality.
What used to be a rather novel idea, the fact that we are
entering "the information age, " now is seen as a cliche of sorts.
Frankly, I see that as a good thing.
Similarly, the nature of reporting has changed as well.
Foreign correspondents used to be sent to their posts for the
length of their careers. While some still honor this tradition,
more and more correspondents are sent to a variety of posts in
different countries. But there is one constant amid the change:
foreign correspondents are information managers. They are an
integral part of the political, economic and social movements in
the world, because they relate these advances with speed and
accuracy.
The world is changing fast, and is often a very dangerous
place. Those correspondents who have put themselves in the line
of fire, taking risky posts in perilous places, deserve our
thanks and admiration. They have accepted a job many dream of --
but one which few actually endure. Their challenges are often
more than we here at home can imagine.
This brings me to the case of those journalists held in
foreign lands against their will. The American government
continues to work for their release through proper channels, and
hope for their freedom. We remain vigilant in our concern and
prayers.
The changes in international reporting have had a pivotal
role in public diplomacy. The press often is greatly involved in
the message that is projected to both our allies and our enemies,
and the nature of public discourse on events is affected greatly
as a result.
Many times, this has brought international politics out of
the back room, and into the public arena. I am reminded of the
time during the Kennedy Administration, after the news of the Bay
of Pigs and the Cuban missile crisis, during the increasing
involvement in Vietnam. "The chickens are coming home to roost,"
General MacArthur told the new President in 1961, "and you live
in the chicken house.'
of course, none of us look forward to hearing that those
chickens are heading home. But hearing the news is part of being
in the chicken house -- living in a democracy. The explosion of
information has placed a demand on democracy, but democratic
society is uniquely suited to such an extraordinary flow of
information, both incoming and outgoing. A free and open society
can prosper and survive in the information age, and foreign
correspondents are in many ways the lifeblood of survival.
Congratulations on fifty years of service and commitment to
the highest ideals -- freedom and truth. Thank you.
Newsweek
444 Madison Avenue
New York, N.Y. 10022-6999
Jerrold K. Footlick
Marlin Any Chance this I
Senior Editor
(212) 350-4728
Ca be done ?
I'm told the President
To:
Ann McDaniel
From: Jerry Footlick
is likely to be the
Re:
Presidential message
speaker the the Onesseas
tress dinner in May.
Each year the Overseas Press Club, the nation's major
organization concerned with the reporting of
Thanks,
international affairs, holds an annual awards dinner.
A
program, in the form of a magazine, is distributed at
the banquet; it contains the names of the winners and a
An
series of articles on a particular theme. Last year, for
example, People magazine produced the program/magazine,
using politics and privacy as its election-year theme.
]
This year Newsweek is producing it, and our theme is
particularly significant: The Overseas Press Club,
founded in the spring of 1939 on the eve of World War
II, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
We think it is important to have a message from
President Bush in the magazine. (For your information, I
am enclosing a photo-copy of a message in last year's
publication from President Reagan. You will notice it
uses the format of a People magazine story, with a
Ronald Reagan byline.) We would want to use the
President's message either as a My Turn or as a
Washington story of some other kind, with his byline.
We hope that the President would deal with international
affairs, preferably the reporting of them. The message
could be 700 words or so, which would fit one page, or
twice that long, and go on two pages. We will be pleased
with either. We would like to have the statement by
March 24, although a couple of days later would work.
If there is any other information you need, I will
supply it. Thanks for your help, and our thanks in
advance to officials at the White House.
James
DESPITE THE MEDIA'S SHORTCOMINGS,
SAYS THE PRESIDENT, THEIR SCRUTINY
HELPS KEEP DEMOCRACY WHOLE
by Ronald Reagan
INIT
The President dons a gift trooper's hat after speaking to the National Law Enforcement Council in Washington, D.C., last year.
As
a young man growing up in the
tions across the country. Newspapers
homes. Some have said that televi-
Midwest, I remember the days of whis-
and magazines have improved their
sion has undermined the political pro-
tle-stops, classic stump oratory and
technology to keep pace with televi-
cess. On the contrary, I sometimes
radio reports of political campaigns. If
sion and continue to play a critical role
wonder where our modern democra-
my neighbors in Dixon, III., saw a na-
in campaign coverage. They print the
cy would be without it. Because this
tional candidate once in an election
longer stories that give depth to cam-
country is so large and national elec-
year, it was considered a near miracle.
paign news and offer the analysis that
tions are such enormous events, only
Today's voters get to know presi-
adds perspective. We rely on news-
television can establish a one-to-one
dential candidates even if they never
papers to carry the texts of major
communication between candidate
have the opportunity to see them in
speeches and campaign platforms
and citizen.
person. Nightly news programs, Sun-
and promises. And though they don't
The American people need to
day talk shows, televised debates and
always succeed. most newspapers
observe and listen to candidates
local interviews give us the chance to
still try hard to keep news on the news
many times, in many different situa-
see more and learn more about those
pages and opinion on the opinion
tions. That is the best way to under-
who run for the nation's highest of-
pages.
stand their characters, feel confi-
fice than any generation before us.
I believe a living room is as good a
dent that they are individuals of
Televised campaign coverage,
place as anywhere to judge the fit-
integrity and grasp their positions
once almost exclusively the province
ness of a presidential candidate, and
on the important issues of our day.
Reagan shows carrots, as well as sticks,
can win the political "horse race."
analysis about who is winning or los-
ing or what the impact of one specific
straw poll will be on the whole cam-
paign when, in fact, no one really
knows. This can be both misleading to
the public and damaging to the candi-
date. I recall, for example, that after I
fared poorly in the 1980 lowa Republi-
can caucuses, one veteran network
TV correspondent made the snap
judgment that my political career was
over. That was two Inaugural address-
es ago.
I have been the subject of intense
media scrutiny in every campaign in
which I participated. I have not always
agreed with everything that has been
reported. but on the whole the scruti-
ny probably helped me and turned out
to be good for the country and good
for the democratic process.
Anyone who hopes to occupy the
Oval Office must withstand intense
democratic society is all about.
in each party. But no candidate, and
scrutiny. That's the way it should be.
Reporters naturally give more at-
no voter, should take seriously the so-
Americans have high standards. and
tention to the candidate who appears
called horse-race coverage the me-
those who seek public service are
most likely to win, and the brightest
dia love so well. By that I mean the re-
asking the people to grant them some-
lights are thrown on the front-runners
liance on polls and instantaneous
thing of great value: their trust.
In this election year.
IT'S NOT POLITICS
USUAL
NEWS.
The election of the best presidential candidate requires an informed electorate.
At the New York Daily News, we are doing our level best to keep that electorate
informed. To that end, we have assembled the best columnists and writers in the
business for the 1988 election. People like Richard Reeves, Lars-Erik Nelson and
Frank Lombardi. Nobody covers the election like the Daily News.
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