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American Society of Newspaper Editors, 4/12/89 [2]
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13482
Folder ID Number:
13482-004
Folder Title:
American Society of Newspaper Editors, 4/12/89 [2]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
25
6
2
2
Document No. 024162
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/7/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
2:00 4/10/89
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
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:
No Comment
4/7/89.Bates
James W. Cicconi
Es
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
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.
#
#
#
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.
#
#
#
FINAL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF
NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT
GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989
1:20 P.M.
THANK YOU JOHN ((SEIGENTHALER)).
- 2 -
((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. "
"
&
- 3 -
"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 TO SHARE A FEW RECENT HEADLINES WITH YOU, SUCH AS
"DENTIST RECEIVES PLAQUE"
"ACTOR SENT To JAIL FOR
NOT FINISHING SENTENCE"
AND MY FAVORITE,
- 4 -
"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
=
HOWEVER, I AM PROBABLY RESPONSIBLE FOR PROVIDING MY
FAIR SHARE OF CHAFF.
- 5 -
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.
- 6 -
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.
- 7 -
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.
- 8 -
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.
- 9 -
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.
- 10 -
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.
- 11 -
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.
- 12 -
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.
- 13 -
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.
- 14 -
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:
- 15 -
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.
- 16 -
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.
- 17 -
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.
- 18 -
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 BEST RESTORE THE ROLE OF
THE PARTIES BY LIMITING POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEES.
PACs WEAKEN THE PARTIES, RESTRAIN COMPETITION AND
DEADEN THE POLITICAL DEBATE.
- 19 -
I BELIEVE WE SHOULD ELIMINATE CONTRIBUTIONS TO
CANDIDATES, BY POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEES, AND I'LL BE
CONSULTING WITH CONGRESS ABOUT THAT. I ALSO OPPOSE
FEDERAL FUNDING OF CONGRESSIONAL CAMPAIGNS
MY LEGISLATIVE PROPOSAL ALSO STRENGTHENS THE RULES
AGAINST ABUSING THE REVOLVING DOOR FOR PRIVATE GAIN AT
THE EXPENSE OF THE PUBLIC TRUST.
J
- 20 - -
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.
- 21 -
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.
- 22 -
I WILL STRONGLY SUPPORT PAY INCREASES FOR THESE JOBS,
WHICH ARE so IMPORTANT To THIS COUNTRY.
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.
- 23 -
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.
- 24 -
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.
- 25 -
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.
- 26 -
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.
- 27 -
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.
- 28 -
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.
- 29 -
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.
- 30 -
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.
####
- bill, report
-principles states simplistically
- more Depth
1
-
1989 APR. -1 MM 3:
(Smith/Davis)
equitable
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 philosphial give here.
- Any help mak understand 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 sc 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
?
and applied
have been unfair and complicated Our laws have been
unequally
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 clean
second, to ensure uniform standards among all three branches of
3
be
government; third, to insist that these standards are fair and
ensure that clear standards attrast,
reasonable; and, fourth, to1 bring 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
Presidential appointer including all employer in the White House Opie
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 provide award long-overdue
raises for senior federal executives, especially those in
specialized positions like the National Institutes of Health.
researchess at
Principal
be
the
murh
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
discussion the question of a pay increase for certain Institute Exerutive Branch
positiving including specialized jobs like Those at the Nat. for Health.
My ethics program's second goal insists recognizes that that standards be
ethical consistency demands equits
told inderstands This per
equitable across all three branches of government. Remember
Under our Constitution, If
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
player should be treated the same. Hanfusing. or it is not-- there cannot
also apply to housing enbcommittee staff on the Hill. a practice of either ethica
be different standards
for federal employees in the
different branche
Therefore, assuming the continued existence of the
of gavt.
why is
Rotatute
the Independent camsel
this here
necessand
qualifies
Independent Counsel,
I request that we extend that statute to also
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 other/branches.
And I want to extend to legislative and judicial branch
Aren't
employees and judges the Federal statute that prohibits employees
indges
Bromla
should
from taking actions which enhance their own financial interests also
Themployees?
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. 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
abit
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.
EMR3
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 dictated 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
This Administration will work
than another honorific for the calendar. ± am using the office
of 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. 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.
pter
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 too hands
2. its interesting that all these items are made abroad
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.
RESPONSE: Sentence re: "at this moment, "should say,
something like "In fast, today
" or "today."
For
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1
& 123R
(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
April 10, 1989
Memorandum to Chriss Winston
RBP
by the
From:
Roger Porter
Jim Pinkerton
R
Re:
Comments on Speech Drafts: "American Society of
Newspaper Editors," and "Fire Service Dinner"
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
p. 1, graf 1. I would not use the phrase "media manipulation"
in mixed company; also, the "Stealth Communicator" clutters the
opening with thoughts of a campaign which many members of the
press considered too negative. Instead, I would use something
safer, such as "I'm sometimes accused of putting my foot in my
mouth. But my message to you now comes straight from the heart.
Let no one miss this message.
"
p.3, graf 2. The use of the phrase "regarding the latter"
doesn't follow grammatically from the graf above, which mentions
not two, but three specific actions. The more correct transition
would be "Regarding the third [or last]
"
p. 4, graf 1. One premise of the speech is that Washington is
not yet, but should be, a place where equitable standards are
applied. Therefore, I would change the last sentence of this
graf to read "If Washington is to become a level playing field,
then every player should be treated the same."
p. 6, graf 1. In the fourth line, please change "perks" to
"positions"
p. 6, graf 2. When we talk of "trust and honesty," we are not
talking about mere folk wisdom of "everyday conduct,' as the text
seems to imply. Of course we put our faith in the American
people, but their innate goodness derives from our Judeo-
Christian heritage. To remind the audience of this, I would add
after "Standards of trust ... from Washington" the sentence "They
emanate from the Judeo-Christian tradition, but they are
practiced every day."
p. 6, graf 3. The first sentence better reads Ethics in public
service thus derives from the natural integrity of the American
people.'
(more)
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 10, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR
COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
C. BOYDEN GRAY
COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Draft Speech on Ethics Reform
We have reviewed the proposed speech to the American Society of
Newspaper Editors (as revised today) and marked comments on the
attached draft. In addition, along with the ban on judicial
honoraria, the bill is now likely to include a 15 percent cap on
the outside earned income of judges and the outside earned income
of Members of Congress (except that in the case of Members of
Congress, honoraria would not count against this cap.) It should
also be made very clear that the President regards congressional
honoraria as unacceptable, and that should Congress move to
increase its own pay, the President would expect it to forswear
all honoraria income.
It is worth explaining one theme in our comments on the draft --
the deletion of references to establishing tight enforceable
standards in the executive order. After recent changes, the
executive order will set forth principles of ethics for the
purpose of outlining ethical standards to be incorporated in
regulations, but the principles in the executive order will no
longer be directly enforceable against federal employees. The
proposed deletions reflect this change.
Attachment
CC: Jim Cicconi
1
(Smith/Davis)
4/6/89/3 p.m.
Draft Eight
Title: Fri
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT GRAND BALLROOM
WED., APRIL 12, 1989/1:20 pm.
Opening seens abrupt.
I want to communicate a message on ethics in government
service. 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.
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 leinient. It elevates detail over substance;
precept over principle. It aspires to God-like ominscence, and
does
results in only a narrow code of straightjacket rectitude.
this
Debti
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. 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
2
obligations honestly, and teach their children to do the same,
see nothing extraordinary about asking for the same in
government.
This was my approach in Congress, believing that our code of
conduct in the House should be as straightforward and as open as
possible. That is why I sponsored a measure for full financial
?
disclosure that (John S).
Yet more than twenty years later, it is increasingly obvious
that our system today is still not working as it should. It is
not fair. And it is not always respected. The American people
are troubled when a few prominent officials, in all three
branches of government, 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
laws. Fear that a simple, honest mistake could lead to a public
nightmare.
3
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. Today, I am announcing a new Executive Order
and legislation to restore our confidence in honest government.
At this moment, legislation is being sent to the Congress. And
this morning, I issued an Executive Order concerning standards of
the
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 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
4
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 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 clear standards attract,
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
in
the
Expentive
Branch
Presidential appointees, including all employees in the
White House 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
aux
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
5
sort of Individual Retirement Account for Congressmen. I call on
My decision not to not to
include the Commissin's
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. I will
consult with Congress on the question of a congressional pay
at that time submit a proposal to ban
Members
of
Congress
as
recommended
raise and the related issue of honoraria. And I will include in
>y my
ethics
that discussion the question of a pay increase for certain
commission.
Executive Branch positions, including specialized jobs like those
at the National Institues for Health.
My legislative proposial also strengthens the rules against abusing the revolving
door For private gain. at the expense of the public trust. These ruws must not make
government arice a bur to productive work in the private sector, but then must at prohib,t
My ethics program's second goal recognizes that ethical
of profiting
the upperm
consistency demands equitable standards across all three branches from
government
of government. Under our Constitution, every branch of
apply to
as alsomust
service and
government is equal, and none warrants preferential treatment.
The same standard that applies to a staff person at HUD should
the lis the
also apply to housing subcommittee staff on the Hill. A practice
is either ethical or it is not. There cannot be different
standards for federal employees in the different branches of
Flow logically
government.
Insult From P.6.
this
also proposing that
way.
Therefore, I request that we extend the Independent Counsel
statute to cover the Congress. 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
6
for senior executive-branch employees also apply to the
legislative and judicial branches.
The Federal statute that prohibits employees from taking
MOW
actions which enhance their own financial interests should also
be extended to cover legislative and judicial 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.
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.
7
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.
America 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 -- 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.
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
8
have declared this to be National Volunteer Week. This is more
than another honorific for the calendar. This Administration
will work actively to promote and to inspire a national
outpouring of community service.
We will challenge employers to establish literacy programs
and day-care centers. We will challenge local civic groups to
"adopt" a local school, hospital or nursing home. We will
challenge more churches and synagogues to organize food drives
for the homeless. To every American, we will ask for more than a
donation of dollars. We 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 --
T.V.s, V.C.R.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
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 puring
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
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 governet
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 this
if sp add A,
5
prohibition against the conversion of political contributions for
personal or office use. Political donations should not become a
(or for Presential 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.
Brachits
I putting This this is M print
I am proposing a 25 percent pay raise for federal judges,
throughman bashing yes like cokw like
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 ancongies until after I
ther leaders
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
world
jobs like those at the National Institutes for Health. I will
strongly support pay increases for there jobs whit
21,
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
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.
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