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American Society of Newspaper Editors, 4/12/89 [1]
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Record Group/Collection:
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Speechwriting, White House Office of
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Speech File Draft Files
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Chron File, 1989-1993
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Folder Title:
American Society of Newspaper Editors, 4/12/89 [1]
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25
6
2
2
(Davis/Smith)
4/10/89
9:10p.m.
Draft: Eleven
Title: asne3
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED. , APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Thank you John ( (Seigenthaler) )
((Perhaps you've heard what happened to the former
presidential press secretary who died and went to heaven. No
sooner did he get there, than he saw a distinguished-looking man
with ink-stained fingers, a grease pencil behind one ear, and a
green visor over his head, strutting around, giving orders. "Who
is that?" the press secretary grumbled. "Some important editor?"
"No," replied an angel. "That's God. He only thinks he's an
editor "
I've been getting such a ribbing about my highly stylized
prose, that I thought it only appropriate for me share a few
recent headlines with you, such as "Dentist Receives Plaque"
"Actor Sent to Jail for not Finishing Sentence"
and my
favorite, "Rest of the Year May Not Follow January. " I am
tempted to gloat, as Adlai Stevenson did when he said that an
editor is a "person who separates the wheat from the chaff, and
prints the chaff
"
2
However, I am probably responsible for providing my fair
share of chaff. I am, after all, the one who, during the
campaign, promised "a kitchen in every pot"
And I also
declared that "America's freedom is the example by which the
world expires
")
)
Well, let no one miss this message. As editors, you uphold
a certain ethical standard in your newsrooms. You must do so,
because a newspaper is only as good as its word. This is no less
true of government. High ethical standards are central to this
Administration, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law
We must work together to reform a public code of conduct
that is in disarray. It is not logical or fair. It is both too
harsh and too lenient. It elevates detail over substance;
precept over principle.
Such a system ultimately breeds cynicism and contempt for
the law. To truly reform it, we must remember that standards of
trust and honesty are not dictated from regulations written in
Washington. Ethics in public service derive from the natural
integrity of the American people. They are to be found in the
everyday conduct of working men and women; in the postman who
checks on the elderly resident at home; in the cashier who runs
3
after the customer she overcharged. The millions of Americans
who meet their obligations honestly, and teach their children to
do the same, see nothing extraordinary about asking the same of
their government.
The American people are troubled when they hear of officials
in every branch of government at whatever level of government who
show a brazen contempt for the letter or spirit of the law. And
the American people do not understand why certain behavior is
considered criminal when committed by an executive branch
official; and perfectly legal when committed by a Member of
Congress. Is not a crime a crime? Should there not be an
underlying standard of integrity for all?
As President-Elect, I heard about from talented men and
women who, though perfectly honest, declined government service
out of fear. Fear of the sheer complexity of federal ethics
laws. Fear that a simple, honest mistake could lead to a public
nightmare.
These concerns led me to issue an Executive Order creating
the President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
4
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. In fact, legislation is being sent today to the
Congress. And just this morning, I issued an Executive Order
announcing ethical principles for the conduct of executive-branch
employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who say that public ethics and
values cannot be legislated. But they can be encouraged,
respected, and adhered to in government
Public servants
must reflect the best values of America. And let me add that
most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest. " Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been complicated and unequally applied. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
setting four objectives: First, to establish clear ethical
5
principles; second, to ensure uniform standards among all three
branches of government; third, to insist that these standards be
fair and reasonable; and, fourth, to ensure that these standards
attract, not drive out, talented men and women to government.
My ethics program first insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for non-
career Presidential appointees in the executive branch, including
all employees in the immediate White House office. I am
proposing expanded financial disclosure for all three branches of
government. And I have instructed my staff to perform a
comprehensive review of federal campaign finance laws.
Regarding the last, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and to close it this year.
Modern democratic government works best when organized by
strong political parties. Yet we've allowed our parties to
become weakened and overshadowed by special interests. We can
6
best restore the role of the parties by limiting political action
committees. PACs weaken the parties, restrain competition and
deaden the political debate. I believe we should eliminate
direct contributions to candidates, without resorting to federal
funding -- that is, taxpayer funding -- of congressional
elections.
My legislative proposal also strengthens the rules against
abusing the revolving door for private gain at the expense of the
public trust. These rules must not make government service a bar
to productive work in the private sector, but they must prohibit
the appearance of profiting from government service -- and this
must include the legislative branch.
I am proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal judges,
while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. I also believe
that honoraria for Members of Congress should be banned. I
believe Congress should have a pay increase. I will not make a
formal proposal on Congress until after I consult with the
leaders of Congress on the issue of congressional pay. [There is
no point putting Congress through another traumatic bashing like
the one just completed.] And I will include in that discussion
the question of a pay increase for certain executive branch
positions, including specialized jobs like those at the National
Institutes for Health. I will strongly support pay increases for
these jobs, which are so important to this country.
7
My ethics program's second goal recognizes that ethical
consistency demands equitable standards across all three branches
of government. Under our Constitution, every branch of
government is equal, and none warrants preferential treatment.
The same standard that applies to a staff person at HUD should
also apply to housing subcommittee staff on the Hill. A practice
is either ethical or it is not. If Washington is to be a level
playing field, then every player should be treated the same.
Therefore, I am proposing that we must extend the
Independent Counsel statute to cover the Congress. I am also
proposing that the federal statute that prohibits employees from
taking actions that enhance their own financial interest be
extended to cover legislative and judicial branch employees.
There should also be an independent ethics office for the
Congress, to be headed by a clearly nonpartisan official,
confirmed by both houses. I ask that the existing one-year post-
employment "cooling-off" period for senior executive-branch
employees also apply to the legislative and judicial branches.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
8
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. I'm
also requiring mandatory annual briefings on ethics for
Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is a tool to ensure a government as honest as
the American people.
We must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
9
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others, by building a better America,
-- honorably, ethically -- we seek to show how public service is
not the sum of our perks or possessions, but a measure of how we
conduct ourselves and what we achieve.
Come to think of it, this is a code for all occupations,
from high school to the highest callings in journalism and
government. Perhaps the greatest reward of all is the chance to
contribute to America's greatness.
Thank you, and now I would be delighted to take your
questions.
#
#
#
Document No.
024162
MASTERII
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
4/11/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
4
BOSKIN
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
(Davis/Smith)
4/10/89
9:10p.m.
Draft: Eleven
Title: asne3
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Thank you.
I ought to give you fair warning. I have devised a certain
method for dealing with the press
When I want to change a
story, I go to the reporter
When I want to correct a
story, I come to you, the editor
But when I really want to
spike a story, then I go straight to the publisher
and the
story will still run, but at least I can find someone who will
play horseshoes with me all afternoon
In all seriousness, I want to discuss a topic that I know is
of critical importance to you. As editors, you uphold a certain
ethical standard in your newsrooms. You must do so, because a
newspaper is only as good as its word. This is no less true of
government. High ethical standards are central to this
Administration, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law.
We must work together to reform a public code of conduct
that is in disarray. It is not logical or fair. It is both too
2
harsh and too lenient. It elevates detail over substance;
precept over principle.
Such a system ultimately breeds cynicism and contempt for
the law. To truly reform it, we must remember that standards of
trust and honesty are not dictated from regulations written in
Washington. Ethics in public service derive from the natural
integrity of the American people. They are to be found in the
everyday conduct of working men and women; in the postman who
checks on the elderly resident at home; in the cashier who runs
after the customer she overcharged. The millions of Americans
who meet their obligations honestly, and teach their children to
do the same, see nothing extraordinary about asking the same of
their government.
The American people are troubled when they hear of officials
in every branch of government who show a brazen contempt for the
letter or spirit of the law. And the American people do not
understand why certain behavior is considered criminal when
committed by an executive branch official; and perfectly legal
when committed by a Member of Congress. Is not a crime a crime?
Should there not be an underlying standard of integrity for all?
As President-Elect, I was also hearing from talented men and
women who, though perfectly honest, declined government service
out of fear. Fear of the sheer complexity of federal ethics
3
laws. Fear that a simple, honest mistake could lead to a public
nightmare.
These concerns led me to issue an Executive Order creating
the President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. In fact, legislation is being sent today to the
Congress. And just this morning, I issued an Executive Order
announcing ethical principles for the conduct of executive-branch
employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who say that public ethics and
values cannot be legislated. But they can be encouraged,
respected, and adhered to in government
Public servants
must reflect the best values of America. And let me add that
most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest." Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
4
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been complicated and unequally applied. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
setting four objectives: First, to establish clear ethical
principles; second, to ensure uniform standards among all three
branches of government; third, to insist that these standards be
fair and reasonable; and, fourth, to ensure that these standards
attract, not drive out, talented men and women to government.
My ethics program first insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for non-
career Presidential appointees in the executive branch, including
all employees in the immediate White House office. I am
proposing expanded financial disclosure for all three branches of
government. And I have instructed my staff to perform a
comprehensive review of federal campaign finance laws.
Regarding the last, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
5
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and to close it this year.
My legislative proposal also strengthens the rules against
abusing the revolving door for private gain at the expense of the
public trust. These rules must not make government service a bar
to productive work in the private sector, but they must prohibit
the appearance of profiting from government service -- and this
must include the legislative branch.
I am proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal judges,
while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. I also believe
that honoraria for Members of Congress should be banned.
However, I will not make that formal proposal until after I
consult with Congress on the issue of congressional pay. And I
will include in that discussion the question of a pay increase
for certain executive branch positions, including specialized
jobs like those at the National Institutes for Health.
My ethics program's second goal recognizes that ethical
consistency demands equitable standards across all three branches
of government. Under our Constitution, every branch of
government is equal, and none warrants preferential treatment.
The same standard that applies to a staff person at HUD should
6
also apply to housing subcommittee staff on the Hill. A practice
is either ethical or it is not. If Washington is to be a level
playing field, then every player should be treated the same.
Therefore, I request that we extend the Independent Counsel
statute to cover the Congress. I am also proposing that the
federal statute that prohibits employees from taking actions that
enhance their own financial interest be extended to cover
legislative and judicial branch employees. There should also be
an independent ethics office for the Congress, to be headed by a
clearly nonpartisan official, confirmed by both houses. I ask
that the existing one-year post-employment "cooling-off" period
for senior executive-branch employees also apply to the
legislative and judicial branches.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
7
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. I'm
also requiring mandatory annual briefings on ethics for
Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is a tool to ensure a government as honest as
the American people.
We must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others, by building a better America,
-- honorably, ethically -- we seek to show how public service is
8
not the sum of our perks or possessions, but a measure of how we
conduct ourselves and what we achieve.
Come to think of it, this is a code for all occupations,
from high school to the highest callings in journalism and
government. Perhaps the greatest reward of all is the chance to
contribute to America's greatness.
Thank you, and now I would be delighted to take your
questions.
#
#
#
Document No. 024162
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/7/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
2:00 4/10/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
ACTION FYI
4/10/89 P.2 1st full
VICE PRESIDENT
950am MCCLURE sentence - change ACTION FYI
"atthis moment" to
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
Infact today
SCOWCROFT
PORTER or Today,
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
Boskin
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss'
Winston's office with an infomation copy to my office by 2:00
Monday, April 10. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1
1909 APR IX 8:
(Smith/Davis)
4/6/89/3 p.m.
Draft Seven
Title: Fri
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Your introduction was very kind, but you left out a few
items. It may come as a surprise to you, but I consider myself
something of a master of media manipulation. In fact, I'm so
good, you can't even tell I'm doing it
Call me the Stealth Communicator
Well, today, let no one miss this message. Let it ring loud
and clear. Ethical standards are central to my Administration
and our nation, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law.
Ten weeks ago, I issued an Executive Order creating the
President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. And I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. Today, I am announcing a new Executive Order
2
and legislation to enforce government ethics in fact, not merely
in theory. At this moment, legislation is being sent to the
Congress. And this morning, I issued an Executive Order
concerning standards of conduct for executive-branch employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who rightly say that public
ethics and values cannot be legislated. But they can be
encouraged, respected, and adhered to in government
Public
servants must reflect the best values of America. And let me add
that most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest." Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been unfair and complicated. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand Federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
achieving four objectives: First, to set high ethical standards;
second, to ensure uniform standards among all three branches of
3
government; third, to insist that these standards are fair and
reasonable; and, fourth, to bring in, not drive out, talented men
and women to government.
First, my ethics program insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for
Executive Branch employees. I am proposing expanded financial
disclosure for all three branches of government. And I have
instructed my staff to perform a comprehensive review of federal
campaign finance laws.
Regarding the latter, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and close it this year.
I am also proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal
judges, while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. In
addition, I hope to work with Congress to award long-overdue
raises for senior federal executives, especially those in
specialized positions -- like the National Institutes of Health.
4
I will also consult with Congress on a possible congressional
pay raise, and the question of honoraria.
My ethics program's second goal insists that standards be
equitable across all three branches of government. Remember: If
every branch of government is equal, none warrants preferential
treatment. If Washington is a level playing field, then every
player should be treated the same.
Therefore, assuming the continued existence of the
Independent Counsel, I request that we extend that statute to
cover the Congress. I want to create an independent ethics
office for the Congress, to be headed by an independent official,
confirmed by both houses. I ask that the existing one-year post-
employment "cooling-off" period for senior executive-branch
employees also apply to the two other branches.
And I want to extend to legislative- and judicial-branch
employees and judges the Federal statute that prohibits employees
from taking actions which enhance their own financial interests.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
5
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. And
my Executive Order sets forth tighter ethical standards for
executive-branch employees. To make this clear, I'm requiring
mandatory annual briefings on ethics for Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is not an instrument of torture with which to
torment the unpopular. It is a tool for government as honest as
the American people.
America must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
6
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others -- honorably, ethically -- we
seek to show how public service is not the sum of our perks or
possessions, but a measure of how we conduct ourselves and what
we achieve.
Standards of trust and honesty do not emanate from
Washington. They are to be found in the everyday conduct of
working men and women; in the postman who checks on the elderly
resident at home; in the cashier who runs after the customer she
overcharged.
Ethics in public service derives from the natural integrity
of the American people. And the ethos of public service itself
derives from a broader spirit of volunteerism. That is why I
have declared this to be National Volunteer Week. This is more
than another honorific for the calendar. I am using the office
of the Presidency actively, to promote and to inspire a national
outpouring of community service.
1
7
I will challenge employers to establish literacy programs
and day-care centers. I will challenge local civic groups to
"adopt" a local school, hospital or nursing home. I will
challenge more churches and synagogues to organize food drives
for the homeless. To every American, I will ask for more than a
donation of dollars. I will ask for the precious donation of
time and effort, for a giving of the heart.
And to young Americans, I will deliver a special message:
Don't just measure success by the acronyms of material wealth --
V.C.R.s, C.D.s and BMWs. From now on, the good life in America
must include service to others
Come to think of it, this is a code for all to live by, from
high school to the highest calling in journalism and government.
As a society fragmented into sectors, and atomized into.
individuals, we can do little. As a national community aware of
a common fate, bound by a collective purpose, we can achieve
anything.
Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
#
#
#
- bill, report
-principles shally simplistically
- more Depth
1
-
1980 APR -7 is 3: If
(Smith/Davis)
a
something's ither
4/6/89/3 p.m.
Draft Seven
ethical or its not
Title: Fri
- inopiring more confidence in you generally
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
- Phis actually given some thought to philosophial 910 here.
- Any help mak unle stand nationale
Your introduction was very kind, but you left out a few
items. It may come as a surprise to you, but I consider myself
2
something of a master of media manipulation. In fact, I'm so
good, you can't even tell I'm doing it
This really bad
Pls w/ somethr - we se cannot
come
Call me the Stealth Communicator
better say This
Well, today, let no one miss this message. Let it ring loud
and clear. Ethical standards are central to my Administration
and our nation, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law.
Ten weeks ago, I issued an Executive Order creating the
President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. And I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. Today, I am announcing a new Executive Order
2
and legislation to enforce government ethics in fact, not merely
in theory. At this moment, legislation is being sent to the
Congress. And this morning, I issued an Executive Order
concerning standards of conduct for executive-branch employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who rightly say that public
ethics and values cannot be legislated. But they can be
encouraged, respected, and adhered to in government
Public
servants must reflect the best values of America. And let me add
that most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest." Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
macyplied
have been unfair and complicated Our laws have been
inconally
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand Federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects How? by setting
achieving four objectives: First, to set high ethical standards principler;
establish clear
second, to ensure uniform standards among all three branches of
3
be
government; third, to insist that these standards are fair and
ensure that clean standards attrast,
reasonable; and, fourth, not drive out, talented men
and women to government.
public
First, my ethics program insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for certain
Executive Branch employees I am proposing expanded financial
Presidential appointees including all employer in the White House offie
disclosure for all three branches of government. And I have
instructed my staff to perform a comprehensive review of federal
campaign finance laws.
Regarding the latter, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and close it this year.
I am also proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal
judges, while restricting their acceptance of honoraria.
5
addition, I hope to work with Congress to provide award long-overdue
aises for senior federal executives, especially those in
specialized positions - like the National Institutes of Health
researchess at
as
$
4
WILL
any
much
the question of a
I will also consult with Congress on a possible congressional
pay raise, and the question of honoraria: and will include in that
related issue
should
state
issue likel me
discussion the question of a pay increase for certain Executive Branch
positions including specialized jobs like Those at the Not. Institutes for Health.
This
My ethics program's second goal insists percognizes that standards the
ethical consistency demands equ
Under our Constitution,
equitable, across all three branches of government. Remember
told of Summ
and
every branch of government is equal, none warrants preferential
treatment. [If Washington is a level playing field, then every
The same standards that apply to a staff person at HUD should
also apply to housing enbcommenttee staff on the Hill. a practice & either ethic
player should be treated the same. or it is not there cannot
be different standards
for federal mplayees in the
different brand
why is
Therefore, assuming the continued existence of the
8, gavt.
Relature
the Independent camel
this
a qualifies
Independent Counsel,
I request that we extend that statute to also
necepail
There should also be
cover the Congress. I want to create an independent ethics
clearly nonpartisan
office for the Congress, to be headed by as Undependent official,
confirmed by both houses. I ask that the existing one-year post-
employment "cooling-off" period for senior executive-branch
legislative and indicial
employees also apply to the two branches.
And I want to extend to legislative and judicial branch
Aren't
employees and judges the Federal statute that prohibits employees
indges Bromda
should
from taking actions which enhance their own financial interests also
be extended to cover legislative and indicial branch employees.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
5
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. And
my Executive Order sets forth tighter ethical standards for
executive-branch employees. To make this clear, I'm requiring
mandatory annual briefings on ethics for Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. [It is not an instrument of torture with which to
torment the unpepular
It is a tool for government as honest as
the American people.
to ensme a
abt
America must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
6
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
GMR3
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others -- honorably, ethically -- we
seek to show how public service is not the sum of our perks or
possessions, but a measure of how we conduct ourselves and what
we achieve.
cannet be ditated in
Standards of trust and honesty do not emanate from
Washington. They are to be found in the everyday conduct of
working men and women; in the postman who checks on the elderly
resident at home; in the cashier who runs after the customer she
overcharged.
Ethics in public service derives from the natural integrity
of the American people. And the ethos of public service itself
derives from a broader spirit of volunteerism. That is why I
have declared this to be National Volunteer Week. This is more
than another honorific for the calendar. I am using the office
This Administration will work
the Presidency actively. to promote and to inspire a national
outpouring of community service.
7
we will challenge employers to establish literacy programs
we
and day-care centers. will challenge local civic groups to
we
"adopt" a local school, hospital or nursing home. I will
challenge more churches and synagogues to organize food drives
for the homeless. To every American, we will ask for more than a
we
donation of dollars. will ask for the precious donation of
time and effort, for a giving of the heart.
And to young Americans, I will deliver a special message:
Don't just measure success by the acronyms of material wealth --
V.C.R.s, C.D.s and BMWs. From now on, the good life in America
must include service to others
Come to think of it, this is a code for all to live by, from
high school to the highest calling in journalism and government.
As a society fragmented into sectors, and atomized into
individuals, we can do little. As a national community aware of
a common fate, bound by a collective purpose, we can achieve
anything.
Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
nice point, but:
#
#
#
1. corcentration on youpies, though apper true enough in many cases, may be for have
2. its interesting that all these tems are made abroad
1
(Smith/Davis)
4/6/89/3 p.m.
Draft Seven
Title: Fri
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Your introduction was very kind, but you left out a few
items. It may come as a surprise to you, but I consider myself
something of a master of media manipulation. In fact, I'm so
good, you can't even tell I'm doing it
Call me the Stealth Communicator
Well, today, let no one miss this message. Let it ring loud
and clear. Ethical standards are central to my Administration
and our nation, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law.
Ten weeks ago, I issued an Executive Order creating the
President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. And I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. Today, I am announcing a new Executive Order
2
and legislation to enforce government ethics in fact, not merely
in theory. At this moment, legislation is being sent to the
Congress. And this morning, I issued an Executive Order
concerning standards of conduct for executive-branch employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who rightly say that public
ethics and values cannot be legislated. But they can be
encouraged, respected, and adhered to in government
Public
servants must reflect the best values of America. And let me add
that most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest." Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been unfair and complicated. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand Federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
achieving four objectives: First, to set high ethical standards;
second, to ensure uniform standards among all three branches of
3
government; third, to insist that these standards are fair and
reasonable; and, fourth, to bring in, not drive out, talented men
and women to government.
First, my ethics program insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for
Executive Branch employees. I am proposing expanded financial
disclosure for all three branches of government. And I have
instructed my staff to perform a comprehensive review of federal
campaign finance laws.
Regarding the latter, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and close it this year.
I am also proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal
judges, while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. In
addition, I hope to work with Congress to award long-overdue
raises for senior federal executives, especially those in
specialized positions -- like the National Institutes of Health.
4
I will also consult with Congress on a possible congressional
pay raise, and the question of honoraria.
My ethics program's second goal insists that standards be
equitable across all three branches of government. Remember: If
every branch of government is equal, none warrants preferential
treatment. If Washington is a level playing field, then every
player should be treated the same.
Therefore, assuming the continued existence of the
Independent Counsel, I request that we extend that statute to
cover the Congress. I want to create an independent ethics
office for the Congress, to be headed by an independent official,
confirmed by both houses. I ask that the existing one-year post-
employment "cooling-off" period for senior executive-branch
employees also apply to the two other branches.
And I want to extend to legislative- and judicial-branch
employees and judges the Federal statute that prohibits employees
from taking actions which enhance their own financial interests.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
5
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. And
my Executive Order sets forth tighter ethical standards for
executive-branch employees. To make this clear, I'm requiring
mandatory annual briefings on ethics for Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is not an instrument of torture with which to
torment the unpopular. It is a tool for government as honest as
the American people.
America must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
6
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others -- honorably, ethically -- we
seek to show how public service is not the sum of our perks or
possessions, but a measure of how we conduct ourselves and what
we achieve.
Standards of trust and honesty do not emanate from
Washington. They are to be found in the everyday conduct of
working men and women; in the postman who checks on the elderly
resident at home; in the cashier who runs after the customer she
overcharged.
Ethics in public service derives from the natural integrity
of the American people. And the ethos of public service itself
derives from a broader spirit of volunteerism. That is why I
have declared this to be National Volunteer Week. This is more
than another honorific for the calendar. I am using the office
of the Presidency actively, to promote and to inspire a national
outpouring of community service.
7
I will challenge employers to establish literacy programs
and day-care centers. I will challenge local civic groups to
"adopt" a local school, hospital or nursing home. I will
challenge more churches and synagogues to organize food drives
for the homeless. To every American, I will ask for more than a
donation of dollars. I will ask for the precious donation of
time and effort, for a giving of the heart.
And to young Americans, I will deliver a special message:
Don't just measure success by the acronyms of material wealth --
V.C.R.s, C.D.s and BMWs. From now on, the good life in America
must include service to others
Come to think of it, this is a code for all to live by, from
high school to the highest calling in journalism and government.
As a society fragmented into sectors, and atomized into
individuals, we can do little. As a national community aware of
a common fate, bound by a collective purpose, we can achieve
anything.
Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
DATE:
4 11
FROM THE PRESIDENT
To:
Jim C.
I will need a precise short fact
sheet with headings highlightewd
for my Q & A.
gb
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 10, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
MARK DAVIS
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
SUBJECT:
American Society of Newspaper Editors
Attached are your remarks before ASNE, in which you unveil your
ethics package. This speech will be given just after lunch,
before an audience of 1100, including editors of daily newspapers
and their wives. About fifteen minutes of Q & A will follow.
This speech does more than detail your legislation. It describes
how our ethical system is failing, and why it must be reformed.
It lays out a philosophy of ethics and public service.
(Davis/Smith)
4/10/89
9:10p.m.
Draft: Eleven
Title: asne3
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Thank you.
Try for new oprung
wony about "spihe"
I ought to give you fair warning, I have devised a certain
method for dealing with the press
When I want to change a
Better
story, I go to the reporter
When I want to correct a
story, I come to you, the editor
But when I really want to
not
spike a story, then I go straight to the publisher
...
and the
story will still run, but at least I can find someone who will
play horseshoes with me all afternoon
In all seriousness, I want to discuss a topic that I know is
of critical importance to you. As editors, you uphold a certain
ethical standard in your newsrooms. You must do so, because a
newspaper is only as good as its word. This is no less true of
government. High ethical standards are central to this
Administration, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law.
We must work together to reform a public code of conduct
that is in disarray. It is not logical or fair. It is both too
2
harsh and too lenient. It elevates detail over substance;
precept over principle.
Such a system ultimately breeds cynicism and contempt for
the law. To truly reform it, we must remember that standards of
trust and honesty are not dictated from regulations written in
Washington. Ethics in public service derive from the natural
integrity of the American people. They are to be found in the
everyday conduct of working men and women; in the postman who
checks on the elderly resident at home; in the cashier who runs
after the customer she overcharged. The millions of Americans
who meet their obligations honestly, and teach their children to
do the same, see nothing extraordinary about asking the same of
their government.
The American people are, troubled when they hear of officials
at whatever level of governor
in every branch of government who show a brazen contempt for the
letter or spirit of the law. And the American people do not
understand why certain behavior is considered criminal when
committed by an executive branch official; and perfectly legal
when committed by a Member of Congress. Is not a crime a crime?
Should there not be an underlying standard of integrity for all?
heard a bout
As President-Elect, I was also hearing from talented men and
women who, though perfectly honest, declined government service
out of fear. Fear of the sheer complexity of federal ethics
3
laws. Fear that a simple, honest mistake could lead to a public
nightmare.
leave
K
asio
These concerns led me to issue an Executive Order creating
an
the President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. In fact, legislation is being sent today to the
Congress. And just this morning, I issued an Executive Order
announcing ethical principles for the conduct of executive-branch
employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who say that public ethics and
values cannot be legislated. But they can be encouraged,
respected, and adhered to in government
Public servants
must reflect the best values of America. And let me add that
most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest." Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
4
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been complicated and unequally applied. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
setting four objectives: First, to establish clear ethical
principles; second, to ensure uniform standards among all three
branches of government; third, to insist that these standards be
fair and reasonable; and, fourth, to ensure that these standards
attract, not drive out, talented men and women to government.
My ethics program first insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for non-
career Presidential appointees in the executive branch, including
all employees in the immediate White House office. I am
proposing expanded financial disclosure for all three branches of
government. And I have instructed my staff to perform a
comprehensive review of federal campaign finance laws.
Regarding the last, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
is
connect
the
ad
if
5
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
(or for Pressdubial candidates
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen, I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and to close it this year.
I am increasingly troubled by the abuseo +
My legislative proposal also strengthens the rules against
abusing the revolving door for private gain at the expense of the
public trust. These rules must not make government service a bar
to productive work in the private sector, but they must prohibit
the appearance of profiting from government service -- and
must include the legislative branch.
Brachets
I putting This this though is no
I am proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal judges,
bashingt
are
while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. I also believe
good
that honoraria for Members of Congress should be banned.
I believe Cargress should have a pay increase
However, I will not make that formal proposal until after I
the leader.
orcongnes
consult with Congress on the issue of congressional pay And I
those consultation
will include in that discussion the question of a pay increase
for certain executive branch positions, including specialized
would
jobs like those at the National Institutes for Health. I will
4,
involusly
strongly support pay iocreases for there jobs and
My ethics program's second goal recognizes that ethical
consistency demands equitable standards across all three branches
of government. Under our Constitution, every branch of
government is equal, and none warrants preferential treatment.
The same standard that applies to a staff person at HUD should
6
also apply to housing subcommittee staff on the Hill. A practice
is either ethical or it is not. If Washington is to be a level
playing field, then every player should be treated the same.
proposing
nust
Therefore, I request that we extend the Independent Counsel
statute to cover the Congress. I am also proposing that the
federal statute that prohibits employees from taking actions that
enhance their own financial interest be extended to cover
legislative and judicial branch employees. There should also be
an independent ethics office for the Congress, to be headed by a
clearly nonpartisan official, confirmed by both houses. I ask
that the existing one-year post-employment "cooling-off" period
for senior executive-branch employees also apply to the
legislative and judicial branches.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
7
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. I'm
also requiring mandatory annual briefings on ethics for
Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is a tool to ensure a government as honest as
the American people.
We must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others, by building a better America,
-- honorably, ethically -- we seek to show how public service is
8
not the sum of our perks or possessions, but a measure of how we
conduct ourselves and what we achieve.
Come to think of it, this is a code for all occupations,
from high school to the highest callings in journalism and
government. Perhaps the greatest reward of all is the chance to
contribute to America's greatness.
Thank you, and now I would be delighted to take your
questions.
#
#
#
FINAL
(Davis/Smith)
12:10
4/10/89
9:10p.m.
Draft: Eleven
Title: asne3
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED. , APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Thank you John ( (Seigenthaler) )
( (Perhaps you've heard what happened to the former
presidential press secretary who died and went to heaven. No
sooner did he get there, than he saw a distinguished-looking man
with ink-stained fingers, a grease pencil behind one ear, and a
green visor over his head, strutting around, giving orders. "Who
is that?" the press secretary grumbled. "Some important editor?"
"No," replied an angel. "That's God. He only thinks he's an
editor . "
I've been getting such a ribbing about my highly stylized
prose, that I thought it only appropriate for me share a few
recent headlines with you, such as "Dentist Receives Plaque"
"Actor Sent to Jail for not Finishing Sentence"
and my
favorite, "Rest of the Year May Not Follow January. " I am
tempted to gloat, as Adlai Stevenson did when he said that an
editor is a "person who separates the wheat from the chaff, and
prints the chaff
"
2
However, I am probably responsible for providing my fair
share of chaff. I am, after all, the one who, during the
campaign, promised "a kitchen in every pot"
And I also
declared that "America's freedom is the example by which the
world expires
"))
Well, let no one miss this message. As editors, you uphold
a certain ethical standard in your newsrooms. You must do so,
because a newspaper is only as good as its word. This is no less
true of government. High ethical standards are central to this
Administration, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law
We must work together to reform a public code of conduct
that is in disarray. It is not logical or fair. It is both too
harsh and too lenient. It elevates detail over substance;
precept over principle.
Such a system ultimately breeds cynicism and contempt for
the law. To truly reform it, we must remember that standards of
trust and honesty are not dictated from regulations written in
Washington. Ethics in public service derive from the natural
integrity of the American people. They are to be found in the
everyday conduct of working men and women; in the postman who
checks on the elderly resident at home; in the cashier who runs
3
after the customer she overcharged. The millions of Americans
who meet their obligations honestly, and teach their children to
do the same, see nothing extraordinary about asking the same of
their government.
The American people are troubled when they hear of officials
in every branch of government at whatever level of government who
show a brazen contempt for the letter or spirit of the law. And
the American people do not understand why certain behavior is
considered criminal when committed by an executive branch
official; and perfectly legal when committed by a Member of
Congress. Is not a crime a crime? Should there not be an
underlying standard of integrity for all?
As President-Elect, I heard about from talented men and
women who, though perfectly honest, declined government service
out of fear. Fear of the sheer complexity of federal ethics
laws. Fear that a simple, honest mistake could lead to a public
nightmare.
These concerns led me to issue an Executive Order creating
the President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
4
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. In fact, legislation is being sent today to the
Congress. And just this morning, I issued an Executive Order
announcing ethical principles for the conduct of executive-branch
employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who say that public ethics and
values cannot be legislated. But they can be encouraged,
respected, and adhered to in government
Public servants
must reflect the best values of America. And let me add that
most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest. " Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been complicated and unequally applied. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
setting four objectives: First, to establish clear ethical
5
principles; second, to ensure uniform standards among all three
branches of government; third, to insist that these standards be
fair and reasonable; and, fourth, to ensure that these standards
attract, not drive out, talented men and women to government.
My ethics program first insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for non-
career Presidential appointees in the executive branch, including
all employees in the immediate White House office. I am
proposing expanded financial disclosure for all three branches of
government. And I have instructed my staff to perform a
comprehensive review of federal campaign finance laws.
Regarding the last, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and to close it this year.
Modern democratic government works best when organized by
strong political parties. Yet we've allowed our parties to
become weakened and overshadowed by special interests. We can
6
best restore the role of the parties by limiting political action
committees. PACs weaken the parties, restrain competition and
deaden the political debate. I believe we should eliminate
by polit, cut action comm Hees.
direct contributions to candidates, without resorting to federal
I also oppose Federal Funding of congresonald compaigns.
funding that is, taxpayer funding -- of congressional
elections.
My legislative proposal also strengthens the rules against
abusing the revolving door for private gain at the expense of the
public trust. These rules must not make government service a bar
to productive work in the private sector, but they must prohibit
the appearance of profiting from government service -- and this
must include the legislative branch.
I am proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal judges,
while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. I also believe
that honoraria for Members of Congress should be banned. I
believe Congress should have a pay increase. I will not make a
formal proposal on Congress until after I consult with the
leaders of Congress on the issue of congressional pay. [There is
no point putting Congress through another traumatic bashing like
the one just completed.] And I will include in that discussion
the question of a pay increase for certain executive branch
positions, including specialized jobs like those at the National
Institutes for Health. I will strongly support pay increases for
these jobs, which are so important to this country.
8
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. I'm
also requiring mandatory annual briefings on ethics for
Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is a tool to ensure à government as honest as
the American people.
We must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
7
My ethics program's second goal recognizes that ethical
consistency demands equitable standards across all three branches
of government. Under our Constitution, every branch of
government is equal, and none warrants preferential treatment.
The same standard that applies to a staff person at HUD should
also apply to housing subcommittee staff on the Hill. A practice
is either ethical or it is not. If Washington is to be a level
playing field, then every player should be treated the same.
Therefore, I am proposing that we must extend the
Independent Counsel statute to cover the Congress. I am also
proposing that the federal statute that prohibits employees from
taking actions that enhance their own financial interest be
extended to cover legislative and judicial branch employees.
There should also be an independent ethics office for the
Congress, to be headed by a clearly nonpartisan official,
confirmed by both houses. I ask that the existing one-year post-
employment "cooling-off" period for senior executive-branch
employees also apply to the legislative and judicial branches.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
9
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others, by building a better America,
-- honorably, ethically -- we seek to show how public service is
not the sum of our perks or possessions, but a measure of how we
conduct ourselves and what we achieve.
Come to think of it, this is a code for all occupations,
from high school to the highest callings in journalism and
government. Perhaps the greatest reward of all is the chance to
contribute to America's greatness.
Thank you, and now I would be delighted to take your
questions.
#
#
#
1
(Smith/Davis)
4/10/89/6 p.m.
Draft: Ten
Title:asne3
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Thank you.
I ought to give you fair warning. I have devised a certain
method for dealing with the press
When I want to change a
story, I go to the reporter
When I want to correct a
story, I come to you, the editor
But when I really want to
spike a story, then I go straight to the publisher
and the
story will still run, but at least I can find someone who will
play horseshoes with me all afternoon
In all seriousness, I want to discuss a topic that I know is
of critical importance to you. As editors, you uphold a certain
ethical standard in your newsrooms. You must do so, because a
newspaper is only as good as its word. This is no less true of
government. High ethical standards are central to this
Administration, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law.
2
We must work together to reform a public code of conduct
that is in disarray. It is not logical or fair. It is both too
harsh and too lenient. It elevates detail over substance;
precept over principle.
Such a system ultimately breeds cynicism and contempt for
the law. To truly reform it, we must remember that standards of
trust and honesty are not dictated from regulations written in
Washington. Ethics in public service derive from the natural
integrity of the American people. They are to be found in the
everyday conduct of working men and women; in the postman who
checks on the elderly resident at home; in the cashier who runs
after the customer she overcharged. The millions of Americans
who meet their obligations honestly, and teach their children to
do the same, see nothing extraordinary about asking the same of
their government.
The American people are troubled when they hear of officials
in every branch of government who show a brazen contempt for the
letter or spirit of the law. And the American people do not
understand why certain behavior is considered criminal when
committed by an executive branch official; and perfectly legal
when committed by a Member of Congress. Is not a crime a crime?
Should there not be an underlying standard of integrity for all?
3
As President-Elect, I was also hearing from talented men and
women who, though perfectly honest, declined government service
out of fear. Fear of the sheer complexity of federal ethics
laws. Fear that a simple, honest mistake could lead to a public
nightmare.
These concerns led me to issued an Executive Order creating
the President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. In fact, legislation is being sent today to the
Congress. And just this morning, I issued an Executive Order
announcing ethical principles for the conduct of executive-branch
employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who say that public ethics and
values cannot be legislated. But they can be encouraged,
respected, and adhered to in government
Public servants
must reflect the best values of America. And let me add that
most public servants do.
4
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest." Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been complicated and unequally applied. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
setting four objectives: First, to establish clear ethical
principles; second, to ensure uniform standards among all three
branches of government; third, to insist that these standards be
fair and reasonable; and, fourth, to ensure that these standards
attract, not drive out, talented men and women to government.
My ethics program first insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for non-
career Presidential appointees in the executive branch, including
all employees in the immediate White House office. I am
proposing expanded financial disclosure for all three branches of
government. And I have instructed my staff to perform a
comprehensive review of federal campaign finance laws.
5
Regarding the last, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and to close it this year.
My legislative proposal also strengthens the rules against
abusing the revolving door for private gain at the expense of the
public trust. These rules must not make government service a bar
to productive work in the private sector, but they must prohibit
the appearance of profiting from government service -- and this
must include the legislative branch.
I am also proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal
judges, while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. I will
consult with Congress on the question of a congressional pay
raise. And I will include in that discussion the question of a
pay increase for certain Executive Branch positions, including
specialized jobs like those at the National Institutes for
Health.
My ethics program's second goal recognizes that ethical
consistency demands equitable standards across all three branches
of government. Under our Constitution, every branch of
6
government is equal, and none warrants preferential treatment.
The same standard that applies to a staff person at HUD should
also apply to housing subcommittee staff on the Hill. A practice
is either ethical or it is not. If Washington is to be a level
playing field, then every player should be treated the same.
Therefore, I request that we extend the Independent Counsel
statute to cover the Congress. I am also proposing that the
federal statute that prohibits employees from taking actions that
enhance their own financial interest be extended to cover
legislative and judicial branch employees. There should also be
an independent ethics office for the Congress, to be headed by a
clearly nonpartisan official, confirmed by both houses. I ask
that the existing one-year post-employment "cooling-off" period
for senior executive-branch employees also apply to the
legislative and judicial branches.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
7
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. I'm
also requiring mandatory annual briefings on ethics for
Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is not an instrument of torture with which to
torment the unpopular. It is a tool to ensure a government as
honest as the American people.
We must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
8
government. And by helping others, by building a better America,
-- honorably, ethically -- we seek to show how public service is
not the sum of our perks or possessions, but a measure of how we
conduct ourselves and what we achieve.
Come to think of it, this is a code for all occupations,
from high school to the highest callings in journalism and
government. Perhaps the greatest reward of all is the chance to
contribute to America's greatness.
Thank you, and now I would be delighted to take your
questions.
#
#
#
Document No. 024162
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
OMAR
DATE:
4/7/89
9 29
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
2:00 4/10/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
Boskin
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss'
Winston's office with an infomation copy to my office by 2:00
Monday, April 10. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See comments on pages 3+6
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1
1909 APR IX S:
(Smith/Davis)
4/6/89/3 p.m.
Draft Seven
Title: Fri
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Your introduction was very kind, but you left out a few
items. It may come as a surprise to you, but I consider myself
something of a master of media manipulation. In fact, I'm so
good, you can't even tell I'm doing it
Call me the Stealth Communicator
Well, today, let no one miss this message. Let it ring loud
and clear. Ethical standards are central to my Administration
and our nation, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law.
Ten weeks ago, I issued an Executive Order creating the
President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. And I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. Today, I am announcing a new Executive Order
2
and legislation to enforce government ethics in fact, not merely
in theory. At this moment, legislation is being sent to the
Congress. And this morning, I issued an Executive Order
concerning standards of conduct for executive-branch employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who rightly say that public
ethics and values cannot be legislated. But they can be
encouraged, respected, and adhered to in government
Public
servants must reflect the best values of America. And let me add
that most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest." Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been unfair and complicated. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand Federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
achieving four objectives: First, to set high ethical standards;
second, to ensure uniform standards among all three branches of
3
government; third, to insist that these standards are fair and
reasonable; and, fourth, to bring in, not drive out, talented men
and women to government.
First, my ethics program insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
Holers
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for
Executive Branch employees. I am proposing expanded financial
disclosure for all three branches of government. And I have
instructed my staff to perform a comprehensive review of federal
campaign finance laws.
Regarding the latter, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and close it this year.
I am also proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal
judges, while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. In
addition, I hope to work with Congress to award long-overdue
raises for senior federal executives, especially those in
specialized positions -- like the National Institutes of Health.
4
I will also consult with Congress on a possible congressional
pay raise, and the question of honoraria.
My ethics program's second goal insists that standards be
equitable across all three branches of government. Remember: If
every branch of government is equal, none warrants preferential
treatment. If Washington is a level playing field, then every
player should be treated the same.
Therefore, assuming the continued existence of the
Independent Counsel, I request that we extend that statute to
cover the Congress. I want to create an independent ethics
office for the Congress, to be headed by an independent official,
confirmed by both houses. I ask that the existing one-year post-
employment "cooling-off" period for senior executive-branch
employees also apply to the two other branches.
And I want to extend to legislative- and judicial-branch
employees and judges the Federal statute that prohibits employees
from taking actions which enhance their own financial interests.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
5
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. And
my Executive Order sets forth tighter ethical standards for
executive-branch employees. To make this clear, I'm requiring
mandatory annual briefings on ethics for Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is not an instrument of torture with which to
torment the unpopular. It is a tool for government as honest as
the American people.
America must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
6
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others -- honorably, ethically -- we
seek to show how public service is not the sum of our perks or
possessions, but a measure of how we conduct ourselves and what
we achieve.
Standards of trust and honesty do not emanate from
Washington. They are to be found in the everyday conduct of
working men and women; in the postman who checks on the elderly
resident at home; in the cashier who runs after the customer she
overcharged.
Suddenly the
Resident atout
Ethics in public service derives from the natural integrity
tacking
Volunterism.
the American people. And the ethos of public service itself
derives from a broader spirit of volunteerism. That is why I
Murry
have declared this to be National Volunteer Week. This is more
4864
than another honorific for the calendar. I am using the office
of the Presidency actively, to promote and to inspire a national
outpouring of community service.
7
I will challenge employers to establish literacy programs
and day-care centers. I will challenge local civic groups to
"adopt" a local school, hospital or nursing home. I will
challenge more churches and synagogues to organize food drives
for the homeless. To every American, I will ask for more than a
donation of dollars. I will ask for the precious donation of
time and effort, for a giving of the heart.
And to young Americans, I will deliver a special message:
Don't just measure success by the acronyms of material wealth --
V.C.R.s, C.D.s and BMWs. From now on, the good life in America
must include service to others
Come to think of it, this is a code for all to live by, from
high school to the highest calling in journalism and government.
As a society fragmented into sectors, and atomized into
individuals, we can do little. As a national community aware of
a common fate, bound by a collective purpose, we can achieve
anything.
Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
#
#
#
Document No. 024162
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/7/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
2:00 4/10/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
Boskin
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss'
Winston's office with an infomation copy to my office by 2:00
Monday, April 10. Thank you.
to
RESPONSE:
delate AP section)
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1
1989 APR -7 M 8
(Smith/Davis)
4/6/89/3 p.m.
Draft Seven
Title: Fri
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Your introduction was very kind, but you left out a few
items. It may come as a surprise to you, but I consider myself
something of a master of media manipulation. In fact, I'm so
good, you can't even tell I'm doing it
Call me the Stealth Communicator
Well, today, let no one miss this message. Let it ring loud
and clear. Ethical standards are central to my Administration
and our nation, and we will enforce them -- strictly,
comprehensively, fairly, and to the letter and spirit of the law.
Ten weeks ago, I issued an Executive Order creating the
President's Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform. And I asked
its members to recommend steps to foster full confidence in the
integrity of all federal public officials and employees.
On March 9, this Commission filed its report and its
recommendations. Today, I am announcing a new Executive Order
2
and legislation to enforce government ethics in fact, not merely
in theory. At this moment, legislation is being sent to the
Congress. And this morning, I issued an Executive Order
concerning standards of conduct for executive-branch employees.
Both actions seek a common end: To raise ethical standards,
to avoid conflicts of interest, and to ensure that the law is
respected in fact and appearance.
There are those, of course, who rightly say that public
ethics and values cannot be legislated. But they can be
encouraged, respected, and adhered to in government
Public
servants must reflect the best values of America. And let me add
that most public servants do.
Jefferson said, "The whole art of government consists in
being honest." Yet, too often, simple honesty is not enough.
Government rules have worked at cross-purposes. Our regulations
have been unfair and complicated. Our laws have been
contradictory and unclear. We've spent more time trying to
understand Federal ethics laws than we have trying to live by
them.
My ethics program seeks to remedy these defects. How? By
achieving four objectives: First, to set high ethical standards;
second, to ensure uniform standards among all three branches of
3
government; third, to insist that these standards are fair and
reasonable; and, fourth, to bring in, not drive out, talented men
and women to government.
First, my ethics program insists that ethical standards must
be exacting enough to ensure that officials act with utmost
integrity, for the public's confidence is not ours to inherit.
We must earn that confidence. It must be constantly renewed.
With this in mind, I have placed a ban on outside income for
Executive Branch employees. I am proposing expanded financial
disclosure for all three branches of government. And I have
instructed my staff to perform a comprehensive review of federal
campaign finance laws.
Regarding the latter, I have already reached one
determination. Congress should extend, for all members, the
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
Congress to close this loophole, and close it this year.
I am also proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal
judges, while restricting their acceptance of honoraria. In
addition, I hope to work with Congress to award long-overdue
raises for senior federal executives, especially those in
specialized positions -- like the National Institutes of Health.
4
I will also consult with Congress on a possible congressional
pay raise, and the question of honoraria.
My ethics program's second goal insists that standards be
equitable across all three branches of government. Remember: If
every branch of government is equal, none warrants preferential
treatment. If Washington is a level playing field, then every
player should be treated the same.
Therefore, assuming the continued existence of the
Independent Counsel, I request that we extend that statute to
cover the Congress. I want to create an independent ethics
office for the Congress, to be headed by an independent official,
confirmed by both houses. I ask that the existing one-year post-
employment "cooling-off" period for senior executive-branch
employees also apply to the two other branches.
And I want to extend to legislative- and judicial-branch
employees and judges the Federal statute that prohibits employees
from taking actions which enhance their own financial interests.
Then, there's the third objective of my ethics program. It
insists that standards be reasonable and reflect good old-
fashioned common sense.
5
Some financial interests, for example, are too minor to
create any meaningful conflict-of-interest. So, I want the
Office of Government Ethics to have the authority to issue
regulations authorizing waivers from the conflict-of-interest
statute. But at the same time, we're urging tougher penalties
when intentional violations of criminal conflict-of-interest laws
occur.
We're asking officials from all three branches to simplify
the forms that must be completed by prospective appointees. And
my Executive Order sets forth tighter ethical standards for
executive-branch employees. To make this clear, I'm requiring
mandatory annual briefings on ethics for Presidential appointees.
My program's fourth objective is to attract and keep the
best people in government, by keeping federal ethics laws fair
and balanced.
An ethics law is not a weapon, a blunt instrument with which
to pound a public servant. It is not a gag with which to silence
the outspoken. It is not an instrument of torture with which to
torment the unpopular. It is a tool for government as honest as
the American people.
America must not allow overly restrictive requirements to be
abused, or to keep talented people from entering public service.
6
That is why we have carefully crafted new post-employment
restrictions. And that is why we want to allow persons who are
required to divest assets to defer their tax liability.
My ethics program shows exactly where we are going, and why.
We seek to attract, and keep, the best and brightest in
government. And by helping others -- honorably, ethically -- we
seek to show how public service is not the sum of our perks or
possessions, but a measure of how we conduct ourselves and what
we achieve.
Standards of trust and honesty do not emanate from
Washington. They are to be found in the everyday conduct of
working men and women; in the postman who checks on the elderly
resident at home; in the cashier who runs after the customer she
overcharged.
Ethics in public service derives from the natural integrity
of the American people. And the ethos of public service itself
derives from a broader spirit of volunteerism. That is why I
have declared this to be National Volunteer Week. This is more
than another honorific for the calendar. I am using the office
of the Presidency actively, to promote and to inspire a national
outpouring of community service.
7
I will challenge employers to establish literacy programs
and day-care centers. I will challenge local civic groups to
"adopt" a local school, hospital or nursing home. I will
challenge more churches and synagogues to organize food drives
for the homeless. To every American, I will ask for more than a
donation of dollars. I will ask for the precious donation of
time and effort, for a giving of the heart.
And to young Americans, I will deliver a special message:
Don't just measure success by the acronyms of material wealth --
V.C.R.s, C.D.s and BMWs. From now on, the good life in America
must include service to others
Come to think of it, this is a code for all to live by, from
high school to the highest calling in journalism and government.
As a society fragmented into sectors, and atomized into
individuals, we can do little. As a national community aware of
a common fate, bound by a collective purpose, we can achieve
anything.
Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
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