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Drop-By Briefing for National Newspaper Association Board of Directors 3/15/90 [OA 4727]
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Drop- By Briefing for National Newspaper Association Board of Directors 3/15/90 [OA 4727]
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26
16
2
1
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
March 15, 1990
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT DROP-BY BRIEFING
FOR THE NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Room 450
Old Executive Office Building
3:34 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Actually, I just came from a St.
Patrick's Day lunch put on by Speaker Foley up in the Capitol. Very
good hands-across-the-aisle kind of thing.
Well, welcome. We call this the White House Complex.
That's not the "Beltway Syndrome,' but this is the White House
Complex. And you don't have to show any ID to get out of the place,
so I'll put you at ease -- I know it's been a pain coming in.
But I'm just delighted you all were here. I hope you've
benefited from some of the briefings you've had here. And I'm
delighted to see you all. I want to just say -- we'll go to the
questions, but I want to underscore some of the same points that I
tried to make this morning to the National Association of
Manufacturers' Annual Washington meeting about the economy.
The fact is that the economy remains sound and steady.
The facts are these: The Gross National Product -- up; the exports
-- up; the personal income -- up. Take a look, then, at the trade
deficit -- it's down; the federal deficit -- I'm not happy with it,
but down; and the prime rate -- far better than it was several years
ago.
And of course, unemployment is down. Last year's rate
was the lowest in the past 16 years. So that is good news, but
there's a great deal that we have to do to keep this expansion going.
The economy at this moment isn't as robust as I'd like to see it.
But we've got basically, I think, a sound economy. Now, we've got to
do certain things. We've got to create incentive for investment.
And I get hit in the political arena on my concept of cutting the
capital gains tax, or reestablishing what we call a capital gains
differential, some calling it a tax that favors the rich. I think it
favors jobs.
And I cited some statistics today that Japan taxes
capital gains at five percent; Korea, Germany, Hong Kong, Taiwan tax
capital gain at zero -- zero.
Now, you're asking -- you should be saying, "What are you
doing to help us be more competitive around the world?" And the
capital gains -- one of the reasons I favored it is, is I do think it
will help us be much more competitive around the world. I'm also
proposing to the Congress incentives to encourage research and
development, so that'll keep us competitive.
of course, the most crucial investment is in the field of
education. We know that we can't remain competitive or remain a
world-class economy without first-class schools. So we got together
with the governors and adopted national goals -- not trying to tell
the local schools what kind of curriculum to have, but goals that all
the governors agreed with, and now try to go forward and try to meet
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- 2 -
those goals such as Head Start, and a literate America, and then
passing certain standards as the kids go from fourth grade and eighth
grade and twelfth grade level.
And so we've got sound goals, and if these work and if
we're successful, not only in the tax end but in the education goals,
then we're going to have not a peace dividend but a growth dividend
and a return on our investment in expanded opportunity, more jobs and
a higher standard of living for Americans.
I made that point this morning, and I will continue to
make the point that we need to do certain things to stimulate
investment and savings. And that, I think, will help us become very
competitive. I've had some fascinating meetings in the last couple
of weeks with, first, the Japanese Prime Minister and then just a few
days ago with Takeshita, former Prime Minister and very much of a
power in Japan. And I did my level best to impress on these very
important leaders, these friends of the United States, the need for
us to have more access to their markets. so, we'll see where we end
up.
But -- no further ado, who wants to go -- yes, sir?
Q I'd like to ask you -- with all the power that's
gravitating into the hands of Gorbachev while the Soviet world is
collapsing about him, do you see any danger of a dictatorship
evolving?
THE PRESIDENT: No, because I think there's much less
danger today given what they've done in their parliament or in their
congressional side of things. They've come out of the
totalitarianism of the past. They give the new President great
power. But I don't see it as a threat, and I certainly don't see it
as a threat at this juncture in history.
You know, I shifted our support from going more like
this: "We support reform and perestroika, to, "we support
perestroika and reform," and we want to see Gorbachev succeed. I am
convinced that one of the reasons we've had peaceful change in
Eastern Europe is because of the approach that Gorbachev himself
brought to bear on the problem. And I've consulted with him, had
communications from him -- one, for example, on the question of
Germany. And I think he's a reasonable man.
So I'm not worried about the constitutional changes
because as you look at the total picture inside the Soviet Union, you
see an evolution that none of us would have believed possible five
years ago -- or three, or two -- in terms of democratic institutions.
And I'm talking about the power in their congress. They had a guy
named Primakov who is the head of their congress, and he was over
here and he came and told me -- he said, well, I'm here to get some
suggestions about -- learn from the United States. And I said, "Mr.
Primakov, you've come to the wrong guy in telling you what to do
about the congress. I'm not having too much luck." (Laughter.)
But the very fact that he was here, you know, and in a
spirit of very good will, getting -- and I was only being
semi-facetious there -- but it's very different, Jerry, than it used
to be. It's amazingly different. I dealt with these guys back in
the United Nations, and I can't tell you how different it is in terms
of self-criticism on their part or debate -- when you have a
difference, you can do it agreeably. It doesn't have to be
disagreeable like it was in the heart of the Cold War days. So I am
not overly concerned.
Q
You said in your national newscast the other day
that the media and all the people there would be surprised and
fascinated when the hostage situation is resolved. What did you mean
by that? Can you expand on it?
MORE
- 3 -
THE PRESIDENT: Well, I can't really expand, except to
say I was addressing myself more to this incident of this phone call
that proved to be a hoax, and that, I am not at liberty to discuss.
In terms of the hostages, there was a wave of speculation a week or
so ago that frankly confused me because we are going down every
alley, we are trying every avenue to free the hostages. But there is
no negotiation going on with any part of the U.S. government or
anything of that nature.
What -- I saw the speculation and I was wondering if it
was some private initiatives on the part of lawyers or those
representing the families of individuals held hostage, because I wish
I could tell you that there was a serious immediate effort that would
pay off, but that isn't the case. So when I was talking there, I was
really talking about this phone call. And some of you may remember,
there were some cartoonists -- I gave them a great deal of
opportunity to have some fun at, you know, picking up the phone, "Who
is this," you know, and all that. (Laughter.)
But I would do it again because I feel -- I don't know
why -- it weighs on me, the burden of Americans held against their
will. And I don't mind taking one on the chin if I go the extra
mile. I ought to do that as your President, I think. And I made the
comment that the next phone call of that nature may have a little
more difficulty getting through -- (laughter) -- but I'm glad we
tried. So I was talking in that context.
Q
More from the spirit of democracy, this good economy
-- what can be done to move some of that into the Rust Belt areas --
the pockets like the Ohio Valley Rust Belt?
THE PRESIDENT: Not sure I have a specific idea, but I'll
guarantee you that if we are successful in getting the budget deficit
down, then you have an economic climate in which new businesses start
up. We've had a reasonable success -- and I'm not crowing about it
-- in the creation of small businesses that are not identified with
one industry. And so I think from the federal standpoint, the best
thing we can do is to see that where we do have assistance --
education, and to installations going into places -- that there's
fair play. But I really believe for the Ohio Valley or wherever else
it is -- that just fundamentally sound fiscal policy is the answer.
I am not in favor -- maybe this will be a disappointment,
but I had better level with you all -- in targeting funds, or kind of
choosing winners and losers. I don't think that is the role of the
federal government -- industrial policy in a broader sense where you
say we're going to put our efforts into one industry or another. I
don't think that's the role of the federal government. Certainly, I
don't think it's the philosophy under which I was elected.
So there are programs. I'm all -- strongly in favor of
job retraining -- Job Training Partnership Act. I think we're doing
better on that. I hope our whole approach to education pays off. So
it's a general response to a very specific question.
Q There's a growing sense of frustration across
America that the standard of living in this country may be in
decline. We hear the rich are getting richer, the poor are getting
poorer. There are always reports that this country is no longer able
to provide the standards of education, health care, housing, that
other nations in the industrialized world are able to give their
people.
THE PRESIDENT: We still have the highest standard of
living in the world. I think if we are successful in our battle
against narcotics, which is not going to be done by the federal
government alone, but certainly I must use the bully pulpit and our
National Drug Strategy One, National Strategy Two, to try to set a
tone for the rest of the country and what can be done to fight
narcotics for a successful education, antidrug fight, and then the
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- 4 -
competitiveness legislation that I've referred to -- math and science
education, R & D, capital gains -- I believe that we will continue to
have the highest living standard.
So I am not that pessimistic, and yet I don't want to
stand here with some Pollyannish attitude about the economy. There
are some signs that worry me. There are some signs that make me feel
that growth will continue and that the economy may be doing better
now than it was a month or two ago. But I don't accept the premise
that we're a second-class power or that we are in decline. There's a
marvelous book that was quoted around here about the decline of the
United States.
We've got some problems. But if you want to put it in a
broad philosophical sense, we're winning. Our concept of freedom and
democracy is winning around the world. And I sometimes wish as
President that there were more funds readily available -- read that
less of a deficit -- to help the fledgling democracies of Eastern
Europe or of our own neighbors to the South, which we must never
neglect.
But even then, even without the largesse that we could
bestow on others from surplus -- budget surplus or operating in
balance, we still can help countries, and we are winning in the
ideological battle and the philosophical battle. And if we can make
fair markets, help create market incentives and then have fair
markets, I really believe we're just on the threshold of a whole age
of increased living standards for the United States; but that's our
goal.
Q
Mr. President, will you encourage the use of Peace
Corps volunteers who see that aid actually gets to the poorest
villagers to be a substantial part of the aid you're seeking for
Nicaragua and Panama?
THE PRESIDENT: Yes. I'm strongly in favor of the Peace
Corps. I've talked to our Peace Corps director. It's not -- you
know, it's not quite right there -- let me tell you something that
does trouble me, though, in Nicaragua. And this is just -- I've
answered the question because I'm a great believer in the Peace
Corps. And I'll tell you, the demands for Peace Corps in some of
these countries, particularly in Eastern Europe, now Poland and
Czechoslovakia, is wonderful. It's a wonderful tribute to the young
volunteers that go into the Peace Corps and to the concept of a great
nation willing to help emerging democracies.
But I am frustrated a little bit by some of the Americans
that have gone down to Nicaragua, been there for two years allegedly
to help the people of Nicaragua, and then Nicaragua has a free and
fair election, and it turns out these people were interested in
helping the Sandinistas, the Sandinismos. And now they're picketing,
some of them have been -- I don't know whether they're still there --
in front of the U.S. Embassy, because in their view the wrong people-
won the election. But that's not the role of the United States. If
we want to help the people and there are verifiably, certifiably free
elections, they ought to stay down there if they're acting in this
philanthropic way and try to help, as the Peace Corps does in
Nicaragua.
Consider my spleen vented. (Laughter.)
Q
This noon you had lunch with Speaker Foley. In the
spirit of Saint Patrick, did you work out a deal on how to reduce
defense spending?
THE PRESIDENT: No, that has not been worked out. We've
made some proposals, and he, I think, waiting, in fairness to him,
for his budget process to work. But I find him very reasonable. We
differ philosophically on some of these questions -- I've cited
capital gains, for example -- I mean, I just haven't properly sold an
MORE
- 5 -
honorable man like Foley on what it means to create jobs, what it
means to be competitive -- I cited for you now the differential
between what it is in Japan, what it is in Korea and all of this --
so I've got to do better in communicating with some of those people
on the other side.
But on the defense, I think we will -- we must retain a
reasoned defense. Colin Powell and Cheney have testified on a
different kind of force. I've had strong support, vocal support,
from Foley on things like our latest proposal on reducing our force
levels in Europe -- the proposal with Gorbachev to both reduce to
195,000 in Central Europe and then 30,000 additional troops that can
be deployed under agreement with the Soviets. So we're getting some
support there, and I believe we will be able to work out an agreed
defense program. I hope we will, because I don't want to have to see
defense all caught up in politics. And the rapidity of change is
such that I think we are in a good position to negotiate further
reductions with the Soviet Union. And that's one of the reasons I'm
looking forward to the summit with Mr. Gorbachev.
Q
Under what circumstances would the United States
begin the process and when would we begin the process of recognizing
an independent Lithuania or any other Soviet republic?
THE PRESIDENT: In the first place, we have never
recognized the incorporation of the Baltic States, which you are
talking about -- Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia -- into the Soviet
Union. It was never a question of having recognized their
incorporation into the Soviet Union.
I think there are standards of control over one's country
or control over one's -- in this instance, territory, that guide
recognition. But I think that the best role for the United States,
having encouraged self-determination, having not been willing to
recognize Lithuania being incorporated into the Soviet Union, is to
encourage a peaceful evolution from now on.
Lithuania made -- under the right of self-determination,
expressed themselves. To the credit of the Soviet leaders, all the
way from Ligachev to Gorbachev on over, they have said, we will not
use force. We're peaceful. We want to see this resolved peacefully.
It is very important to the people in these Baltic States that the
evolution be peaceful. And so I am, just as in East Germany when the
Berlin Wall started down, some of my political opponents were saying
I was unenthusiastic about it. And I told one of our star TV
commentators, well, that's the kind of person I am. I mean, some
people jump with joy and do cartwheels -- and I've got different
genes or something. (Laughter.)
But having said that, another political leader said,
well, you ought to go to Berlin, and the President should be seen at
the Wall. I had communications from the most respected leaders in
East and West -- several of them -- saying, don't do anything silly.
I mean, we're concerned now as this evolves.
And sometimes caution and prudence I think are right.
And I think in this case, it proved right, because that evolution has
moved peacefully, and we did not provoke some kind of outbreak
through exhorting the Berlin Wall that could have caused other
countries to act differently
I'm very pleased with the way the Lithuanian situation is
developing, and we're watching it closely. We will encourage the
fundamental principles of self-determination, and we will encourage
the concept of peaceful change. And I hope both major parties in
that discussion will continue to adhere to peaceful change.
Q It seems to me that the Voice of America has been
one of our best tools for exporting the ideas of democracy. And yet,
I understand that we want to cut their budget. Don't you think that
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- 6 -
it would be better if we just maintained the budget in order to
continue to have this influence in the countries of the Eastern bloc?
THE PRESIDENT: I'm embarrassed to say I don't have the
figures, but I am not aware of any cut in the budget. Because, like
you, I accept your premise, your hypothesis. And you know why?
Because Havel, Vaclav Havel, the playwright President of
Czechoslovakia, expressed his not only appreciation for what the
Voice of America did in bringing -- keeping the hope of democracy and
freedom alive, but also insisted that it's essential that the Voice
still go in there.
So I don't think -- can someone -- we don't think that we
have recommended cuts in the Voice, but maybe we could get your name.
It's a good specific question. And Barry, maybe you could find that
and we'll let you know the exact numbers.
But whatever the figures, believe me, there is no
philosphical commitment to ratchet down or cut back on the Voice,
because I agree with you that it's even more important that that
message of freedom continue to be heard, and I accept the word of
Havel in the process.
Now, we've got one more and I see an urgent -- I've not
been very good about the left side of the room. Yes, sir?
Q
Does it bother you at all the proportion of the
foreign aid budget going to two nations, Israel and Egypt?
Irrespective of any comment on Jerusalem -- (laughter) -- is there
some thought of, perhaps, lowering the level of the funds going there
in the hope that it might promote peace -- to stop funding both
nations on such a large level of our resources?
THE PRESIDENT: I would not favor that. I do favor
greater flexibility for the president, which means a weakening of, or
an elimination of, earmarking. Because what's happened is, a
tremendous percentage, as Don points out, of our foreign aid budget
is going to just a handful of countries. And you cited Israel, and I
could add Egypt -- well, you added Egypt -- and there's Pakistan and
one or two others. And by the time that money is disbursed, there is
almost nothing. And I'll give you an example.
In Jamaica, I must confess that when Mr. Manley came in,
based on his past record and his proximity to Cuba and his former
fraternity with Mr. Castro, I didn't know how it would go. Manley
campaigned on a different policy this time. He said, "I'm not going
to push our country into the arms of Fidel Castro." And he's been
very good. And I salute him. And when I go to try to help the
impoverished people of Jamaica, we have very little flexibility.
And so, I don't want to suggest cutting to good friends,
but I have asked that we be accorded more flexibility, perhaps a fund
that's known as a discretionary fund, for the president to be able to
prioritize the interests of this country and go forward with them.
so, that's what -- Bob Dole raised the question, and I
saluted him for raising the question, and we will continue to work
with the Congress. I think there may be some sentiment for it, but I
don't think you'll see it in slashes in the budget to accomplish that
end, because there's some strong reasons of friendship for that, and
there's some powerful political forces that would argue against that.
Well, listen, thank you all very, very much. A pleasure
to be with you. (Applause.)
END
3:59 P.M. EST
Document No. 122767SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 3/14/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/14/90 6:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN N/C
ROGICH N/C
BATES N/C
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
WINSTON
DEMAREST N/C
PINKERTON
FITZWATER
BOSKIN N/C
GRAY N/C
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 6:00 PM, TODAY, Wednesday, March 14, with a
copy to my office. Sorry for the short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
McGroarty/Dooley
1990 MAR 14 PM 3. 24
March 14, 1990
3:00 pm
[NNA]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
RM. 450, OEOB
MARCH 15, 1990
3:30 P.M.
Welcome to Washington -- and to what we call // the White
House Complex. // [[And no -- that's not the same as "Beltway
Syndrome." //]]
I am pleased to have this chance to meet with such a broad
cross-section of our nation's print journalists.
Wherever
you're
from -- whether you came in all the way from the West Coast, or
whether you re from one of the "local local newspapers, within
walking distance of the White House -- I'm delighted to have you
here.
The newspapers you represent -- and in many cases, own and
operate -- are part of a proud tradition serving every community
across this country.
In a moment, we'll get on to what you came for -- Q&A. But
before we do, I want to underscore some of the points I made this
morning to the National Association of Manufacturers on the state
of the American economy.
The fact is, the economy remains sound and steady. I know
there are some arm-chair economists out there who've been
predicting doom and gloom for years now. I suggest the hand-
wringers take a look at the indicators. GNP -- up. Exports --
up. Personal income -- up. // Take a look at the trade deficit
2
-- down. The federal deficit -- down. Same with the prime rate.
And of course, unemployment is down: last year's rate was the
lowest in the past 16 years.
That's good news -- but of course there is a great deal we
can and must do to keep this expansion going -- and make a strong
economy even stronger. We've got to start by creating incentives
for investment. We've got to cut the capital gains tax -- bring
the cost of capital in the U.S. into line with our other
industrial competitors. We need to put in place tax incentives
to. encourage R&D, to stay competitive tomorrow. And of course
we've got to make the most crucial investment of all -- in our
children. Education. // We know America can't remain a world-
class economy without first-class schools. //
If we adopt this agenda -- if we make these key investments
in our future -- we'll reap a "growth dividend" -- a return on
our investment in expanded opportunity, more jobs, and a higher
standard of living for all Americans. ///
Now, I'll stop right here, and take your questions.
# # #
Document No. 122767SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 3/14/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/14/90 6:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN lie as
tw
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES
UNTERMEYER
an yo
CARD
ROGERS the West
ast,
CICCONI
WINSTON
DEMAREST
PINKERTON
FITZWATER
BOSKIN in many cas
own
GRAY
every
mmur
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 6:00 PM, TODAY, Wednesday, March 14, with a
copy to my office. Sorry for the short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
No Comment know
90 MAR 15 P2: I
James W. Cicconi ficit
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 14, 1990
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER
RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: National Newspaper
Association Drop-by
I have indicated my suggested changes to these remarks on
the attached draft.
CC: James W. Cicconi
SOMAR 15 P1:14
Document No. 122767SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/14/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/14/90 6:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
WINSTON
DEMAREST
PINKERTON
FITZWATER
BOSKIN
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 6:00 PM, TODAY, Wednesday, March 14, with a
copy to my office. Sorry for the short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
McGroarty/Dooley
1990 MAR 14 PM 3. 24
March 14, 1990
3:00 pm
[NNA]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
RM. 450, OEOB
MARCH 15, 1990
3:30 P.M.
Welcome to Washington -- and to what we call // the White
House Complex. // [[And no -- that's not the same as "Beltway
Syndrome." //]]
I am pleased to have this chance to meet with such a broad
cross-section of our nation's print journalists. Wherever you're
from -- whether you came in all the way from the West Coast, or
whether you're from one of the "local" local newspapers, within
walking distance of the White House -- I'm delighted to have you
here. The newspapers you represent -- and in many cases, own and
operate -- are part of a proud tradition serving every community
across this country.
In a moment, we'll get on to what you came for -- Q&A. But
before we do, I want to underscore some of the points I made this
morning to the National Association of Manufacturers on the state
of the American economy.
OUR
The fact is, the economy remains sound and steady.
CI
know
there are some arm chair economists out there who ve been
THE FACTS SPEAK
predicting doom and gloom for years now. I suggest the hand
FOR THEMSEUSES.
wringers take a look at the indicators. GNP -- up. Exports --
up. Personal income -- up. // Take a look at the trade deficit
2
-- down. The federal deficit -- down. Same with the prime rate.
And of course, unemployment is down: last year's rate was the
lowest in the past 16 years.
That's good news -- but of course there is a great deal we
can and must do to keep this expansion going -- and make a strong
economy even stronger. We've got to start by creating incentives
for investment. We've got to cut the capital gains tax -- bring
the cost of capital in the U.S. into line with our other
industrial competitors. We need to put in place tax incentives
to encourage R&D, to stay competitive tomorrow. And of course
we've got to make the most crucial investment of all -- in our
children. Education. // We know America can't remain a world-
class economy without first-class schools. 11
If we adopt this agenda -- if we make these key investments
in our future -- we'll reap a "growth dividend" -- a return on
our investment in expanded opportunity, more jobs, and a higher
standard of living for all Americans. ///
Now, I'll stop right here, and take your questions.
# # #
McGroarty/Dooley
1990 MAR 14 PM 3. 24
March 14, 1990
3:00 pm
FROM: 90 MAR 14 PORTER P7:14
[NNA]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
RM. 450, OEOB
MARCH 15, 1990
3:30 P.M.
Welcome to Washington -- and to what we call // the White
House Complex. // [[And no -- that's not the same as "Beltway
Syndrome." //]]
I am pleased to have this chance to meet with such a broad
cross-section of our nation's print journalists. Wherever you're
from -- whether you came in all the way from the West Coast, or
whether you're from one of the "local" local newspapers, within
walking distance of the White House -- I'm delighted to have you
here. The newspapers you represent -- and in many cases, own and
operate -- are part of a proud tradition serving every community
across this country.
In a moment, we'll get on to what you came for -- Q&A. But
before we do, I want to underscore some of the points I made this
morning to the National Association of Manufacturers on the state
of the American economy.
OUR
The fact is, the economy remains sound and steady.
[I]
know
there are some arm chair economists out there who've been
THE FACTS SPEAK
predicting doom and gloom for years now. I suggest the hand
FOR THEMSEUSES.
wringers take a look at the indicators GNP -- up. Exports --
up. Personal income -- up. // Take a look at the trade deficit
Document No. 122767SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/14/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/14/90 6:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
WINSTON
DEMAREST
PINKERTON
FITZWATER
BOSKIN
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 6:00 PM, TODAY, Wednesday, March 14, with a
copy to my office. Sorry for the short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
OK.S.R
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
McGroarty/Dooley
1990 MAR 14 PM 3. 24
March 14, 1990
3:00 pm
[NNA]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
RM. 450, OEOB
MARCH 15, 1990
3:30 P.M.
Welcome to Washington . -- and to what we call // the White
House Complex. // [[And no -- that's not the same as "Beltway
Syndrome." //]]
I am pleased to have this chance to meet with such a broad
cross-section of our nation's print journalists. Wherever you're
from -- whether you came in all the way from the West Coast, or
whether you re from one of the "local" local newspapers, within
walking distance of the White House -- I'm delighted to have you
here. The newspapers you represent -- and in many cases, own and
operate -- are part of a proud tradition serving every community
across this country.
In a moment, we'll get on to what you came for -- Q&A. But
before we do, I want to underscore some of the points I made this
morning to the National Association of Manufacturers on the state
of the American economy.
The fact is, the economy remains sound and steady. I know
there are some arm-chair economists out there who've been
predicting doom and gloom for years now. I suggest the hand-
wringers take a look at the indicators. GNP -- up. Exports --
up. Personal income -- up. // Take a look at the trade deficit
2
-- down. The federal deficit -- down. Same with the prime rate.
And of course, unemployment is down: last year's rate was the
lowest in the past 16 years.
That's good news -- but of course there is a great deal we
can and must do to keep this expansion going -- and make a strong
economy even stronger. We've got to start by creating incentives
for investment. We've got to cut the capital gains tax -- bring
the cost of capital in the U.S. into line with our other
industrial competitors. We need to put in place tax incentives
to encourage R&D, to stay competitive tomorrow. And of course
we've got to make the most crucial investment of all -- in our
children. Education. // We know America can't remain a world-
class economy without first-class schools. //
If we adopt this agenda -- if we make these key investments
in our future -- we'll reap a "growth dividend" -- a return on
our investment in expanded opportunity, more jobs, and a higher
standard of living for all Americans. ///
Now, I'll stop right here, and take your questions.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 14, 1990
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON w
FROM:
DAN MCGROARTY Drar
SUBJECT:
NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCATION DROP-BY
I. SUMMARY
On Thursday, March 15, from 3:30 to 3:45 p.m., you will
meet with National Newspaper Association members in OEOB
Room 450. The remarks (5 minutes/cards) will be followed by
a short Q & A session. About 200 people will be there.
II. DISCUSSION
The NNA represents over 5,000 community newspapers
nationwide. Your appearance will follow an on-the-record
briefing by Chief of Staff Sununu, Roger Porter, and Marlin
Fitzwater.
The remarks recap the National Association of
Manufacturers speech, which will take place that morning.
###
McGroarty/Dooley
March 14, 1990
3:00 pm
[NNA]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
RM. 450, OEOB
MARCH 15, 1990
3:30 P.M.
Welcome to Washington -- and to what we call // the White
House Complex. // [[And no -- that's not the same as "Beltway
Syndrome." //]]
I am pleased to have this chance to meet with such a broad
cross-section of our nation's print journalists. Wherever you're
from -- whether you came in all the way from the West Coast, or
whether you're from one of the "local" local newspapers, within
walking distance of the White House -- I'm delighted to have you
here. The newspapers you represent -- and in many cases, own and
operate -- are part of a proud tradition serving every community
across this country.
In a moment, we'll get on to what you came for -- Q&A. But
before we do, I want to underscore some of the points I made this
morning to the National Association of Manufacturers on the state
of the American economy.
The fact is, the economy remains sound and steady. I know
there are some arm-chair economists out there who've been
predicting doom and gloom for years now. I suggest the hand-
wringers take a look at the indicators. GNP -- up. Exports --
up. Personal income -- up. // Take a look at the trade deficit
2
-- down. The federal deficit -- down. Same with the prime rate.
And of course, unemployment is down: last year's rate was the
lowest in the past 16 years.
That's good news -- but of course there is a great deal we
can and must do to keep this expansion going -- and make a strong
economy even stronger. We've got to start by creating incentives
for investment. We've got to cut the capital gains tax -- bring
the cost of capital in the U.S. into line with our other
industrial competitors. We need to put in place tax incentives
to encourage R&D, to stay competitive tomorrow. And of course
we've got to make the most crucial investment of all -- in our
children. Education. // We know America can't remain a world-
class economy without first-class schools. //
If we adopt this agenda -- if we make these key investments
in our future -- we'll reap a "growth dividend" -- a return on
our investment in expanded opportunity, more jobs, and a higher
standard of living for all Americans. ///
Now, I'll stop right here, and take your questions.
# # #
Document No. 122767SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/14/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/14/90 6:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
WINSTON
DEMAREST
PINKERTON
FITZWATER
BOSKIN
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 6:00 PM, TODAY, Wednesday, March 14, with a
copy to my office. Sorry for the short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE: no comment
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
McGroarty/Dooley
1990 MAR 14 PM 3. 24
March 14, 1990
3:00 pm
[NNA]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION DROP-BY
RM. 450, OEOB
MARCH 15, 1990
3:30 P.M.
Welcome to Washington -- and to what we call // the White
House Complex. // [[And no -- that's not the same as "Beltway
Syndrome." //]]
I am pleased to have this chance to meet with such a broad
cross-section of our nation's print journalists. Wherever you're
from -- whether you came in all the way from the West Coast, or
whether you're from one of the "local" local newspapers, within
walking distance of the White House -- I'm delighted to have you
here. The newspapers you represent -- and in many cases, own and
operate -- are part of a proud tradition serving every community
across this country.
In a moment, we'll get on to what you came for -- Q&A. But
before we do, I want to underscore some of the points I made this
morning to the National Association of Manufacturers on the state
of the American economy.
The fact is, the economy remains sound and steady. I know
there are some arm-chair economists out there who've been
predicting doom and gloom for years now. I suggest the hand-
wringers take a look at the indicators. GNP -- up. Exports --
up. Personal income -- up. // Take a look at the trade deficit
2
-- down. The federal deficit -- down. Same with the prime rate.
And of course, unemployment is down: last year's rate was the
lowest in the past 16 years.
That's good news -- but of course there is a great deal we
can and must do to keep this expansion going -- and make a strong
economy even stronger. We've got to start by creating incentives
for investment. We've got to cut the capital gains tax -- bring
the cost of capital in the U.S. into line with our other
industrial competitors. We need to put in place tax incentives
to encourage R&D, to stay competitive tomorrow. And of course
we've got to make the most crucial investment of all -- in our
children. Education. // We know America can't remain a world-
class economy without first-class schools. //
If we adopt this agenda -- if we make these key investments
in our future -- we'll reap a "growth dividend" -- a return on
our investment in expanded opportunity, more jobs, and a higher
standard of living for all Americans. ///
Now, I'll stop right here, and take your questions.
# # #