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Federal Judges Association, 5/24/89
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Document No. 037864
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
05/23/89
----
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
(05/19 10:30 a.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
d
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
1
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
X
R
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
PORTER-ROSE
d
FITZWATER
FIRESTONE
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
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
MAY 22, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON and
FROM:
MARK LANGE mf
SUBJECT:
REMARKS TO THE FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
I. SUMMARY
Attached are brief remarks for your meeting with roughly 180
members of the Federal bench, in the Rose Garden on Wednesday,
May 24, at 4:30 p.m.
Your remarks outline elements of the crime package, and address
the inflation-induced pay cut these judges have had to endure.
You close after endorsing the 25 percent pay increase for members
of the bench.
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the White House, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week; I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison construction.
But I must also enlist your help. We've requested funds to
hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well as 1,600
new prosecutors and staff. And we have requested $40 million in
new funds for the judiciary for 1990. But it will be your
dockets that groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation, erode your salaries by as much as 40
percent over the last two decades. Well, I believe that your
salaries should not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been
an awkward marriage -- one that judges have endured since the
dawn of this republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
power, prestige, and honor of the judgeships become their only
currency -- the quality of the federal bench won't be maintained.
That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
You are the best people: examples of public service at its
very finest. What you do happens without great fanfare, without
fame -- and heaven knows, without fortune. And yet, your work is
absolutely essential to the workings of this Democracy.
Justice William Brennan has said that delayed justice is bad
justice. I know that with your continued leadership, America can
deliver justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #
MASTER
Document No. 037864
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
9:00 am 5/22/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE N/C
SUNUNU
R
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERSTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
1
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 9:00am
Monday, May 22. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
1803 MAY 19
IN
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well --- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the Rose Garden, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
?
tmit
bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison contruction.
But I must also enlist your help. While we've requested
In
funds to hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well
we have requested
as 1,600 new prosecutors and staff, w and 1 $40 million in new
funds for the judiciary for 1990 but it will be your dockets that
groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation erode by as much as 40 percent over
your salavies sa
the last two decades. Well, I believe that your salaries should
not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been an awkward
marriage -- one that judges have endured since the dawn of this
?
republic. And it is taking its toll.
NICK CALLO
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
and honor
power ) and prestige of the judgeships become their only currency
1
some fear that the field may be left to those whose overriding
priority is power or that the quality of the federal bench
won't be maintained. That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
stat
It has been said that delayed justice is bad justice. I
know that with your continued leadership, America can deliver
justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #
Gold last complementary G.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
MAY 22, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON and
FROM:
MARK LANGE mf
SUBJECT:
REMARKS TO THE FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
I. SUMMARY
Attached are brief remarks for your meeting with roughly 180
members of the Federal bench, in the Rose Garden on Wednesday,
May 24, at 4:30 p.m.
Your remarks outline elements of the crime package, and address
the inflation-induced pay cut these judges have had to endure.
You close after endorsing the 25 percent pay increase for members
of the bench.
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the White House, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison construction.
But I must also enlist your help. We've requested funds to
hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well as 1,600
new prosecutors and staff. And we have requested $40 million in
new funds for the judiciary for 1990. But it will be your
dockets that groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation erode your salaries by as much as 40
percent over the last two decades. Well, I believe that your
salaries should not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been
an awkward marriage -- one that judges have endured since the
dawn of this republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
power, prestige, and honor of the judgeships become their only
currency -- the quality of the federal bench won't be maintained.
That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
You are the best people: examples of public service at its
very finest. What you do happens without great fanfare, without
fame -- and heaven knows, without fortune. And yet, your work is
absolutely essential to the workings of this Democracy.
Justice William Brennan has said that delayed justice is bad
justice. I know that with your continued leadership, America can
deliver justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 19, 1989
Memorandum to Chriss Winston
From:
Jim Pinkertor
&
Re:
Federal Judges draft
I think this speech is fine; up until
the very end.
In the second-to-last graf, we mutate
the old saw that "justice delayed is justice
denied." Why? I agree that there's something
to be said for breaking free of cliches, but
we shouldn't do so after we bring up the fact
that "it has been said." By doing so we tele-
graph our coming cliche. To then misquote said
cliche makes us look merely ignorant.
RM.122
Document No. 037864
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
9:00 am 5/22/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERSTON
P
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
1
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 9:00am
Monday, May 22. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Commented.
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
1989 MAY 19
and
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the Rose Garden, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
strictly limit
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison contruction.
But I must also enlist your help. While we've requested
funds to hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well
as 1,600 new prosecutors and staff -- and $40 million in new
funds for the judiciary for 1990 -- it will be your dockets that
groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
your compensation
know you have seen inflation erode by as much as 40 percent over
the last two decades. Well, I believe that your salaries should
not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been an awkward
marriage -- one that judges have endured since the dawn of this
republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
power and prestige of the judgeships become their only currency,
Delite
E- some fear that the field may be left to those whose overriding
priority is power or that the quality of the federal bench
won't be maintained. That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
It has been said that delayed justice is bad justice. I
know that with your continued leadership, America can deliver
justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
###
Justice
David Runkel
633-2107
THE WHITE house
WASHINGTON
May 22, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
LEE S. LIBERMAN 1st
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Federal Judges Association Remarks
My understanding is that there will not be press at this event.
For that reason, as well as for others that I will discuss, I
would recommend dropping the discussion of the crime package--
that is, everything from the seccond through the sixth paragraph.
I do not think there is much that judges can do to help with that
package, and they will be far more interested in hearing about
the pay raise. The purpose of this event is to make the judges
feel appreciated. Talking to them about something that is not
relevant to them and that is somewhat politically charged seems
to me not to serve that purpose.
Should you decide to retain any of these paragraphs, I would
strongly recommend eliminating the discussion of the gun control
portions of it (the third paragraph). Those provisions will
certainly be the subject of litigation (as the import ban on
assault weapons is currently), and the judges may accordingly
feel uncomfortable about the President's raising it in this
context. Yet another argument for leaving that paragraph out is
that the description of the President's directive to the Attorney
General here differs from the one in the Fact Sheet released May
15 (although it tracks the one given in the President's speech
that day).
If you follow my first recommendation and delete all references
to the crime control package, I would pick up after the first
paragraph with something like the following:
I appreciate the service you are rendering. I know that
many of you have passed up much more comfortable, well-
compensated professions, in the interest of justice. Each
of you here brings pride and honor to the words "Public
Servant" and each of you renders that service out of a
deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal justice for all.
I want to help. That's why I've requested an increase of
$40 million in new funds for the judiciary for 1990 beyond
President Reagan's original budget request. And that's why
I support a pay raise for federal judges now.
- 2 -
Then pick up with the second sentence of the eighth paragraph.
Three other points. First, you may want to change the third
sentence in that paragraph to say "Well, I believe that your
salaries need not be coupled to those of Congress." I believe
some Members of Congress will be there, and "should not" sounds
more like an attack on them. Second, I would carefully check the
claim that "judges have endured [coupling] since the dawn of this
republic. I have not done so, although I would be happy to if
you need help with that. Finally, the statistic in the first
paragraph of the next paragraph for which you quote the former
Chief Justice may well be accurate, but is not particularly
meaningful without a comparison of the total number of federal
judges in 1969-89 to the total number 1789-1969.
CC: Jim Cicconi
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
M
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the Rose Garden, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison contruction.
But I must also enlist your help. While we've requested
funds to hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well
as 1,600 new prosecutors and staff -- and $40 million in new
funds for the judiciary for 1990 -- it will be your dockets that
groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation erode by as much as 40 percent over
the last two decades. Well, I believe that your salaries should
not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been an awkward
marriage -- one that judges have endured since the dawn of this
republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
power and prestige of the judgeships become their only currency
-- some fear that the field may be left to those whose overriding
priority is power -- or that the quality of the federal bench
won't be maintained. That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
It has been said that delayed justice is bad justice. I
know that with your continued leadership, America can deliver
justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #
Document No. 037864
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
9:00 am 5/22/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERSTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 9:00am
Monday, May 22. Thank you.
RESPONSE: o/c
,
G1320
5/15/89
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the Rose Garden, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison contruction.
But I must also enlist your help. While we've requested
funds to hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well
as 1,600 new prosecutors and staff -- and $40 million in new
funds for the judiciary for 1990 -- it will be your dockets that
groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation erode by as much as 40 percent over
the last two decades. Well, I believe that your salaries should
not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been an awkward
marriage -- one that judges have endured since the dawn of this
republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
power and prestige of the judgeships become their only currency
-- some fear that the field may be left to those whose overriding
priority is power -- or that the quality of the federal bench
won't be maintained. That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
It has been said that delayed justice is bad justice. I
know that with your continued leadership, America can deliver
justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the Rose Garden, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison contruction.
But I must also enlist your help. While we've requested
funds to hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well
as 1,600 new prosecutors and staff -- and $40 million in new
funds for the judiciary for 1990 -- it will be your dockets that
groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation erode by as much as 40 percent over
the last two decades. Well, I believe that your salaries should
not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been an awkward
marriage -- one that judges have endured since the dawn of this
republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
power and prestige of the judgeships become their only currency
-- some fear that the field may be left to those whose overriding
priority is power -- or that the quality of the federal bench
won't be maintained. That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
It has been said that delayed justice is bad justice. I
know that with your continued leadership, America can deliver
justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #
Document No. 037864
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
9:00 am 5/22/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERSTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 9:00am
Monday, May 22. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
sur
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
III
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the Rose Garden, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison contruction.
But I must also enlist your help. While we've requested
funds to hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well
as 1,600 new prosecutors and staff -- and $40 million in new
funds for the judiciary for 1990 -- it will be your dockets that
groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
crode what?
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation erode by as much as 40 percent over
the last two decades. Well, I believe that your salaries should
not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been an awkward
marriage -- one that judges have endured since the dawn of this
republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
dhonor
power and prestige of the judgeships become their only currency
-- some fear that the field may be left to those whose overriding
priority is power -- or that the quality of the federal bench
won't be maintained. That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last' month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
It has been said that delayed justice is bad justice. I
know that with your continued leadership, America can deliver
justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #
For flow (considering the peaceful Rose garden setting)
how about a short, closing paragraph
of thank you for the role they so selflessly
play in defense of truthand right and justice
and the American way.
Document No. 037864
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
9:00 am 5/22/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
A
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
R
PINKERSTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
1
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 9:00am
Monday, May 22. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
sure
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
1939
MAY
19
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the Rose Garden, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison contruction.
But I must also enlist your help. While we've requested
funds to hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff --- as well
as 1,600 new prosecutors and staff -- and $40 million in new
funds for the judiciary for 1990 -- it will be your dockets that
groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" --- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
erade what?
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation erode by as much as 40 percent over
the last two decades. Well, I believe that your salaries should
not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been an awkward
marriage -- one that judges have endured since the dawn of this
republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
honor
power and prestige of the judgeships become their only currency
-- some fear that the field may be left to those whose overriding
priority is power -- or that the quality of the federal bench
won't be maintained. That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
It has been said that delayed justice is bad justice. I
know that with your continued leadership, America can deliver
justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #
For flow (considering the peaceful Rose garden setting)
how about a short, closing paragraph
of thank you for the role they so selflessly
play in defense of truthand right and justice
and the American way.
Document No. 037864
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
9:00 am 5/22/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
A
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
f
PINKERSTON
P
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
1
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 9:00am
Monday, May 22. Thank you.
N.C.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Wallace)
May 19, 1989
1989
MAY
19
All
10:30 a.m.
[FEDJUDGE.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
FEDERAL JUDGES ASSOCIATION
ROSE GARDEN
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1989
4:30 P.M.
I am delighted to welcome you to the Rose Garden. Your work
touches just about every aspect of American life. But as you
know -- perhaps too well -- the job of a judge in this country
has gotten tougher in recent years.
Many of you are coping with the wave of violent crime that
is breaking out over our cities. Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in the Rose Garden, and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war.
Last week, I announced a comprehensive new offensive for
combatting violent crime. I have called for a return to common
sense. If we are to deter criminal behavior, we must have a
criminal justice system where there is no doubt that if you
commit a crime, you will be caught -- and if caught, you will be
prosecuted -- and if convicted, you will do time.
The first front of this campaign starts with the so-called
"assault" weapons that drug criminals have taken to the streets.
I've directed the Attorney General to advise our prosecutors to
end plea bargaining for violent federal firearms offenses. And
I've asked Congress to support legislation banning the
2
manufacture, sale, or transfer of gun magazines of more than 15
rounds.
Of course, no criminal justice system will work if we don't
have the prison cells to keep criminals out of circulation. So
I've also called on Congress to authorize an additional $1
billion -- over and above the $500 million already slated for
1990 -- for federal prison contruction.
But I must also enlist your help. While we've requested
funds to hire hundreds of new Federal agents and staff -- as well
as 1,600 new prosecutors and staff -- and $40 million in new
funds for the judiciary for 1990 -- it will be your dockets that
groan under the weight of this new effort.
I know that's a lot to ask, since many of you have passed up
much more comfortable, well-compensated professions, in the
interest of justice. Each of you here brings pride and honor to
the words "Public Servant" -- and each of you renders that
service out of a deeply-held commitment to the idea of equal
justice for all.
That commitment will be honored by this administration. I
know you have seen inflation erode by as much as 40 percent over
the last two decades. Well, I believe that your salaries should
not be coupled to those of Congress. It's been an awkward
marriage -- one that judges have endured since the dawn of this
republic. And it is taking its toll.
Former Chief Justice Warren Burger says that a greater
number of federal judges have left the bench for more lucrative
3
professions since 1969, than in the 180 preceeding years. This
is one trend that must end.
If we cannot attract the best people to the bench -- if the
power and prestige of the judgeships become their only currency
-- some fear that the field may be left to those whose overriding
priority is power -- or that the quality of the federal bench
won't be maintained. That must never happen.
So in keeping with the advice of the Volcker Commission,
last month I sent legislation to the Hill recommending a 25
percent pay increase for federal judges. I encourage Congress to
pass that legislation quickly, to help you make up a least some
of the ground you've lost -- and to keep the best people on the
bench.
It has been said that delayed justice is bad justice. I
know that with your continued leadership, America can deliver
justice that is fair, efficient -- and effective.
Thank you. And God bless you.
# # #