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Swearing-In of William Barr 11/26/91 [OA 8319]
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26
21
7
7
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 25, 1991
C1 NOV 25 P6: 33
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW
B
shayes
FROM:
JOSEPH P. DUGGAN
SUBJECT:
SWEARING-IN FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL WILLIAM BARR
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, November 26, at 3:30 p.m., you will speak
in the Great Hall of the Justice Department prior to William
Barr's swearing-in. About 200 friends and colleagues of Mr.
Barr will attend.
II. DISCUSSION
The remarks (8 minutes, on cards) spell out Barr's
priorities: fighting drugs, violent crime, white collar
crime, and promoting civil rights.
On page 3, the strong rebuttal to Congress's attempt to
gut the crime bill refers to yesterday's taunt by Senator
Biden to "do it in a 30-second sound bite." (See attached
article) This language may have to be updated to reflect
new developments in Congress.
(Duggan/Simon)
November 25, 1991
Draft Two
Barr
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
BARR SWEARING-IN
JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1991
3:30 p.m.
Mr. Attorney General, members of the Cabinet, members of
Congress, Bishop [Thomas] Daily [Catholic Bishop of Brooklyn],
ladies and gentlemen: Let me offer congratulations to Bill Barr
and a warm welcome and best wishes to his wife Christine; his
daughters Mary, Patricia, and Margaret; his parents and the many
other family and friends here for this happy occasion. ((This is
my kind of Barr Association. )) 11
Today America gives new responsibilities to a young man of
outstanding character and achievement. ((As always,
Shakespeare's words help us sum up the man: "Young in limbs, in
judgment old.' The newspapers report Bill Barr was giving
Eisenhower for President speeches when he was in kindergarten.
And his parents inform me that young Bill was discoursing about
separation of powers before he gave up his pacifier. ))
I am proud to welcome Bill Barr to the Cabinet. He'll make
Americans proud of his work as Attorney General of the United
okip
States. He offers a model of thoughtfulness and hard work
7th
for all young Americans. ( When I first met him, Bill Barr held a
demanding job by day translating Chinese radio broadcasts for the
CIA. At night he was going to law school. As a lawyer in
private practice and in government service, he has shown
unstinting commitment to excellence and fairness.
2
As the head of the Justice Department's Office of Legal
Counsel, and as a key participant in our National Security
Council deliberations, Bill Barr has never hesitated to speak his
mind and offer honest, solid legal advice. As Deputy Attorney
General and Acting Attorney General, he has fostered a strong
sense of teamwork that draws the best out of our professionals at
the Justice Department. Bill's leadership has brought about
recent successes in prosecuting savings and loan fraud, in
resolving the Talladega hostage crisis, and in indicting the
terrorists who plotted the Pan Am bombing.
Under our new Attorney General, the Justice Department has
four major priorities: First, keep on with the fight against
drugs. We're winning some battles, but we haven't won this war -
- not yet. We'll keep putting our best efforts into the fight
for the lives and well being of our young people. 11
Second, we're continuing, and we'll intensify, our efforts
against violent crime. In the federal government, we're
determined to help state and local authorities combat violent
criminals. Bill Barr's leadership in particular will help us
with a new crackdown against career criminals who use firearms,
and he'll redouble our efforts to help victims and witnesses.
Third, our Administration will work vigorously to enforce
civil rights laws. We will support our fellow Americans' efforts
to promote fairness and harmony, and we will join forces to fight
the cancer of discrimination.
3
Finally, Bill Barr and his team will roll up their sleeves
to heighten the attack against white-collar crime. We're
determined to strengthen the people's protection against fraud in
financial institutions, insurance, and government procurement.
We'll turn the full force of the law against con artists who
steal people's savings. And we'll do the same to anyone from
abroad who tries to rob our inventors and investors of what is
rightfully theirs.
We won't rest until Congress gives us the tools we need to
fight crime. I asked for an end to frivolous habeas corpus
appeals that waste time prosecutors should be spending on new
cases. Congress ignored this urgent need. I asked for
legislation assuring that needless technicalities will not cause
evidence to be thrown out when police officers act in good faith.
Congress ignored me on this, too. I asked Congress to make it
easier to prosecute rapists and child molesters. Again, Congress
failed to act. I asked for meaningful federal death penalty
authority -- and once again, Congress failed to deliver. The
conference committee's bill is so weak, so soft on criminals,
that I'll have to veto it if it reaches my desk.
I've been challenged to explain in 30 seconds why I'm
opposed to the weak substitute bill some in Congress want me to
sign. Start your stopwatch: America needs a new crime bill
Deleter
that stands with the courts, with the cops, and with the victims
of crime -- and against the criminals.
profun reatzider not
to
to
4
Beyond the critical issues of crime and drugs and civil
rights enforcement -- we need civil justice reform. Bill Barr
will help us straighten out a civil litigation system that has
spun out of control. We've become the most litigious society in
the world. That causes a painful, costly drain on our economy,
on our professions, and ultimately on the civility we need to
hold society together. Bill has been, and will remain, a
stalwart in our efforts for civil justice reform. ///
I'm confident that Bill Barr possesses in abundance every
quality that makes a great Attorney General: he's tough, fair-
minded -- a man of integrity and intense dedication. ((It's true
go all out
that I've ordered Bill to be ruthless in fighting crime. But
I've left the details to him. It's altogether his idea to try to
drive drug dealers out of our neighborhoods by playing his
bagpipe. 11 We'll have to check and see whether that violates
the Eighth Amendment -- cruel and unusual punishment. ))
For fifteen years, I've been honored to know Bill Barr.
I've been deeply impressed by his fairness and integrity, by his
love of country and of his profession. And now it is my honor to
present Judge Laurence Silberman, who will administer the oath of
office to the 77th Attorney General of the United States.
# # #
(Duggan/Simon)
November 25, 1991
Draft Two
Barr
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
BARR SWEARING-IN
JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1991
3:30 p.m.
Mr. Attorney General, members of the Cabinet, members of
Congress, Bishop [Thomas] Daily [Catholic Bishop of Brooklyn],
ladies and gentlemen: Let me offer congratulations to Bill Barr
and a warm welcome and best wishes to his wife Christine; his
daughters Mary, Patricia, and Margaret; his parents and the many
other family and friends here for this happy occasion. ((This is
my kind of Barr Association. )) 11
Today America gives new responsibilities to a young man of
outstanding character and achievement. ((As always,
Shakespeare's words help us sum up the man: "Young in limbs, in
judgment old." The newspapers report Bill Barr was giving
Eisenhower for President speeches when he was in kindergarten.
And his parents inform me that young Bill was discoursing about
separation of powers before he gave up his pacifier. )) 11
I am proud to welcome Bill Barr to the Cabinet. He'll make
Americans proud of his work as Attorney General of the United
States. 11 He offers a model of thoughtfulness and hard work
for all young Americans. When I first met him, Bill Barr held a
this is
as a legislarive afters specialist
inaccurate
demanding job by day translating Chinese radio broadcasts for the
CIA. At night he was going to law school. As a lawyer in
private practice and in government service, he has shown
unstinting commitment to excellence and fairness.
2
As the head of the Justice Department's Office of Legal
Counsel, and as a key participant in our National Security
Council deliberations, Bill Barr has never hesitated to speak his
mind and offer honest, solid legal advice. As Deputy Attorney
General and Acting Attorney General, he has fostered a strong
sense of teamwork that draws the best out of our professionals at
the Justice Department. Bill's leadership has brought about
recent successes in prosecuting savings and loan fraud, in
resolving the Talladega hostage crisis, and in indicting the
terrorists who plotted the Pan Am bombing.
Under our new Attorney General, the Justice Department has
four major priorities: First, keep on with the fight against
drugs. We're winning some battles, but we haven't won this war -
- not yet. We'll keep putting our best efforts into the fight
for the lives and well being of our young people. 11
Second, we're continuing, and we'll intensify, our efforts
against violent crime. In the federal government, we're
determined to help state and local authorities combat violent
criminals. Bill Barr's leadership in particular will help us
with a new crackdown against career criminals who use firearms,
and he'll redouble our efforts to help victims and witnesses.
Third, our Administration will work vigorously to enforce
civil rights laws. We will support our fellow Americans' efforts
to promote fairness and harmony, and we will join forces to fight
the cancer of discrimination. 11
3
Finally, Bill Barr and his team will roll up their sleeves
to heighten the attack against white-collar crime. We're
determined to strengthen the people's protection against fraud in
financial institutions, insurance, and government procurement.
We'll turn the full force of the law against con artists who
steal people's savings. And we'll do the same to anyone from
abroad who tries to rob our inventors and investors of what is
rightfully theirs. 11
We won't rest until Congress gives us the tools we need to
fight crime. I asked for an end to frivolous habeas corpus
appeals that waste time prosecutors should be spending on new
cases. Congress ignored this urgent need. I asked for
legislation assuring that needless technicalities will not cause
evidence to be thrown out when police officers act in good faith.
Congress ignored me on this, too. I asked Congress to make it
easier to prosecute rapists and child molesters. Again, Congress
failed to act. I asked for meaningful federal death penalty
authority -- and once again, Congress failed to deliver. The
conference committee's bill is so weak, so soft on criminals,
that I'll have to veto it if it reaches my desk. 11
I've been challenged to explain in 30 seconds why I'm
opposed to the weak substitute bill some in Congress want me to
sign. Start your stopwatch: 11 America needs a new crime bill
that stands with the courts, with the cops, and with the victims
of crime -- and against the criminals. ///
( insur)
This so called Crime bill acreally reverses 14 supreme Count cases where the
Count ruled in favor of law enforcement How can a bill that works
against law enforcement be called a crime bill. (Jushze)
4
Beyond the critical issues of crime and drugs and civil
rights enforcement -- we need civil justice reform. Bill Barr
will help us straighten out a civil litigation system that has
spun out of control. We've become the most litigious society in
the world. That causes a painful, costly drain on our economy,
on our professions, and ultimately on the civility we need to
hold society together. Bill has been, and will remain, a
stalwart in our efforts for civil justice reform. ///
I'm confident that Bill Barr possesses in abundance every
quality that makes a great Attorney General: he's tough, fair-
minded -- a man of integrity and intense dedication. ((It's true
that I've ordered Bill to be ruthless in fighting crime. But
I've left the details to him. It's altogether his idea to try to
drive drug dealers out of our neighborhoods by playing his
bagpipe. 11 We'll have to check and see whether that violates
the Eighth Amendment -- cruel and unusual punishment. ))
For fifteen years, I've been honored to know Bill Barr.
I've been deeply impressed by his fairness and integrity, by his
love of country and of his profession. And now it is my honor to
present Judge Laurence Silberman, who will administer the oath of
office to the 77th Attorney General of the United States.
# # #
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
11-26-91 ; 10:38 ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
6218;# 5
ATTY GENERAL/DEPT. OF JUSTICE
Nov 22,91 15:47 No. 017 P.02
November 21, 1991
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
As the chief legal or law enforcement officers of our states, we are writing to
express our alarm at the habeas corpus provisions contained in H.R. 3371, as it was
passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, and to urge you to veto any legislation
containing those provisions.
We need legislation that will support law enforcement, promote finality of
judgment, and ensure fairness to crime victims and their survivors. In spite of that
need, a bare majority of the House of Representatives has passed habeas corpus
provisions that would have the opposite effect. Those provisions are so inimical to law
enforcement, are so unfair, and would have such a devastating effect on the interests of
victims and survivors of violent crimes, that we urge you to veto any so-called anti-
crime bill containing any of the principal provisions relating to habeas corpus that are
now found in H.R. 3371.
One of those provisions would effectively repeal the non-retroactivity doctrine of
Teague V. Lane, 489 U.S. 288 (1989), and related Supreme Court decisions, thereby
drastically undermining finality of judgment and increasing relitigation and delay
manyfold. The House bill accomplishes this result by defining more narrowly than
Teague the class of "new rules" that do not apply to cases on habeas review, and thus it
provides more grounds for litigation after the conviction is final. The Teague doctrine,
however, acknowledges that federal habeas corpus is not intended "to provide a
mechanism for the continuing reexamination of final judgments based upon later
emerging legal doctrine."1
1. Sawyer V. Smith, 110 S.C. 2822, 2827 (1990).
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
11-26-91 ; 10:39 ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
6218;# 6
ATTY GENERAL/DEPT. OF JUSTICE
Nov 22,91 15:47 No.017 P.03
The President
November 21, 1991
Page 2
Without the Teague doctrine, and under the House provision, Robert Alton
Harris, who brutally murdered two teenagers in 1978 near San Diego; California and
who confessed seven times, would be able to perpetuate his case under federal habeas
corpus." This House provision also overturns Butler v. McKellar.2/ These are only two
examples, as any effort to undercut Teague would affect capital and non-capital
judgments in nearly every state. Moreover, the Teague doctrine must be viewed in the
context of Griffith V. Kentucky, 479 U.S. 314 (1987). Griffith holds that "new rules" are
always applied retroactively at any stage during direct review, i.e., before the conviction
becomes final. The Senate already rejected a measure which would have undermined
the Teague doctrine. In the event the conferees fall to follow the Senate lead, we urge
you to veto any bill containing any provisions, such as those in H.R. 3371, which
reverse the Teague non-retroactivity doctrine in any way.
Another provision of H.R. 3371 would impose draconian requirements
concerning appointment, qualification, performance, and compensation of counsel in
capital cases. Those provisions are so onerous, are so contrary to basic notions of
federalism, and depart so significantly from what the Constitution requires, that they
are obviously an attempt to indirectly impede, obstruct, or abolish capital punishment.
For example, under H.R. 3371, if the state fails to satisfy each of the counsel
requirements, three harsh penalties are imposed: (1) an indefinite stay of execution is
granted; (2) the traditional presumption of correctness afforded to state court findings
of fact is eliminated; and (3) the presentation and consideration of new claims in
federal court in disregard of the well-established exhaustion and procedural default
doctrines is permitted. H.R. 3371 therefore encourages "sandbagging" of state courts,
disrespects comity and federalism interests, and promotes more litigation on whether
the state has satisfied each of the technical counsel requirements.
In contrast, the Senate-passed legislation rejected a compulsory approach on the
states and allows states to opt-in to the reforms. In this manner, the Senate bill
contains the recommendation of the Powell Committee which recognized that "it is
2. Harris V. Vasquez, No. 90-55402, F.2d (9th Cir. Aug. 21, 1991).
3. 110 S.Ct. 1212 (1990).
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
11-26-91 ; 10:40 ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
6218;# 7
ATTY GENERAL/DEPT. OF JUSTICE
Nov 22,91 15:48 No. 017 P.04
The President
November 21, 1991
Page 3
more consistent with the federal-state balance to give the States wide latitude to
establish a mechanism" for the appointment of counsel.4/ In the unexpected event that
any state, which opts in to the reforms, failed to promulgate an adequate appointment
of counsel
mechanism, the Powell Committee left that final determination with the federal
judiciary.2/ We urge you to veto any so-called anti-crime bill which contains extra-
constitutional requirements concerning counsel in any case or class of cases, such as
those provisions found in H.R. 3371.
Finally, in the name of placing reasonable limits on "successive petitions," H.R.
3371 instead promotes more, not less, litigation. H.R. 3371 is broader than the Senate-
passed legislation, which is based upon the Powell Committee recommendation, because
the House measure includes vague language permitting successive petitions concerning
"the validity of the sentence under Federal law."
There is nothing in the habeas corpus provisions of H.R. 3371 that is favorable
to any interest other than convicts' interests. Any bill containing the provisions
discussed above cannot be described accurately as an anti-crime bill but would instead
be a pro-criminal bill and particularly a pro-convicted murderer bill. The habeas
corpus provisions contained in H.R. 3371 stand in stark contrast to those which the
Senate passed in July. We do wholeheartedly support the habeas corpus provisions
contained in Title XI of S. 1241. Those provisions, unlike the ones contained in
H.R. 3371, would promote finality, fairness, and prompt resolution of litigation.
There are some other provisions in H.R. 3371 and in S. 1241 which would aid
law enforcement and promote the interests of victims and survivors of violent crime.
However, there are no provisions in either bill, and none that the Conference
Committee could report out, that would justify signing into law any bill containing
habeas corpus provisions similar to those contained in H.R. 3371.
4. Judicial Conference of the United States, Report and Proposal of the Ad Hoc Committee on
Federal Habeas Corpus in Capital Cases, at 11 (Aug. 23, 1989).
5. Id.
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
:11-26-91 ; 10:40 ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
6218;# 8
ATTY GENERAL/DEPT. OF JUSTICE
Nov 22,91 15:48 No.01? P.US
The President
November 21, 1991
Page 4
We appreciate your interest in this matter and hope that, if it becomes
necessary, you will exercise your veto power to protect the American people from pro-
criminal legislation such as the three provisions discussed above relating to habeas
corpus that are contained in H.R. 3371.
Sincerely,
Daniel DANIEL E. LUNGREN Langm
ERNEST D. PREATE, JR.
Attorney General, California
Attorney General, Pennsylvania
mike Moore
jettie
MIKE MOORE
GRANT WOODS
Attorney General, Mississippi
Attorney General, Arizona
DON
Printary STENBERG General, Nebraska
44-48-24
CHARLES E. COLE
Attorney
Attorney General, Alaska
ROBERT T. STEPHAN
ELIZABETH BARRETT-ANDERSON
Attorney General, Kansas
Attorney General, Guam
Marc Recical
MARC RACICOT
Joseph JOSEPH B/ MEYER theyer
Attorney General, Montana
Attorney General, Wyoming
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
11-26-91 ; 10:41 ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS+
GENERAL/DEPT. OF JUSTICE
Nov 22,91 15:49 NO
6218;# 9
The President
November 21, 1991
Page 5
Linley E.Pearson
this sure Dection
LINLEY E. PEARSON
FRANKIE SUE DEL PAPA
Attorney General, Indiana
Attorney General, Nevada
ifs
MARY SUE TERRY
JAMES Attorney Lanes H. General, EVANS A Alabama Ears
Attorney General, Virginia
ROBERT ROAY J. TUSD
KEN
Attorney General, New Jersey
Attorney
EIKENBERRY General, Washington
Mark Barnet
JOHN P. ARNOLD
MARK W. BARNETT
Attorney General, New Hampshire
Attorney General, South Dakota
Dave Rohn mayer
DAVE FROHNMAYER
JEFFREY
Jesky AMESTOY 1.Guetz
Attorney General, Oregon
Attorney General, Vermont
GAZE A.
MICHAEL
Michaely J. BOWERS Bowers
Attorney General, Colorado
Attorney General, Georgia
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER 11-25-91 ; 10:41 ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
Nov 22.91 15:49 No
GENERAL/DEPT. OF JUSTICE
6218;#10
The President
November 21, 1991
Page 6
PRECK
LARRY ECHOHAWK Jony JOSEPH CURRAN, Burrangs JR.
Attorney General, Idaho
Attorney General, Maryland
TRAVIS MEDLOCK no
RICHARD N. PALMER
Chief State's Attorney, Connecticut
Attorney General, South Carolina
Richard P. tryab
Charles ML Oberly 8
CHARLES M. OBERLY, III
RICHARD P. IEYOUB
Attorney General-elect, Louisiana
Attorney General, Delaware
Marir J. Polumbo Dan Morales
MARIO J. PALUMBO
DAN MORALES
Attorney General, West Virginia
Attorney General, Texas
LACY H. THORNBURG
Attorney General, North Carolina
The conferees' so-called "crime bill" is a trick, it is
legislative sleight-of-hand. It is called a crime bill, and
its authors want us to believe that it will end the frivolous
lawsuits filed by death row inmates and the frustrations of
good police officers. But, in reality, it is not a crime bill
at all. It attempts to fool law enforcement officials and
victims, the very last people we should dare to deceive. It
uses all the right titles -- habeas corpus, exclusionary reform
-- but it actually changes more than 10 years of Supreme Court
decisions that favor law enforcement. Is this what the
American people want? We pick tough law and order judges.
They render good decisions to protect the public, we call for
tough crime legislation, and then Congress tries to overturn
those decisions through so-called crime legislation. No this
is not a crime bill, but it certainly is a crime.
from Paul McNaulty
DOJ
(Duggan/Simon)
November 22, 1991
Draft One
Barr
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: BARR SWEARING-IN
JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1991
[time] 3:30 p.m.
Mr. Attorney General, members of the Cabinet, members of
Congress, [others], ladies and gentlemen: Let me offer
congratulations to Bill Barr and a warm welcome and best wishes
to his wife Cynthia, his daughters, his parents and the many
other family and friends here for this happy occasion. ((This is
my kind of Barr Association. )) \\
Today America gives new responsibilities to a young man of
see
outstanding character and achievement. ( (As always,
Shakespeare's words help us sum up the man: "Young in limbs, in
file
judgment old." The newspapers report Bill Barr was giving
Eisenhower for President speeches when he was in kindergarten.
And his parents inform me that young Bill was discoursing about
municipal bonds before he gave up his pacifier. )) 11
I am proud to welcome Bill Barr to the Cabinet. He'll make
Americans proud of his work as Attorney General of the United
States. 11 He offers a model of thoughtfulness and hard work
Duggan
for all young Americans. When I first met him, Bill Barr held a
conventending job by day translating Chinese radio broadcasts for the
w/
Burr
CIA. At night he was going to law school. As a lawyer in
private practice and in government service, he has shown
unstinting commitment to excellence and fairness.
2
Duggan
As the head of the Justice Department's Office of Legal
commensationsel,
and as a key participant in our National Security
w/Barr
Council deliberations, Bill Barr never hesitated to speak his
mind and offer honest, solid legal advice. As Acting Attorney
General, he has fostered a strong sense of teamwork that draws
the best out of our professionals at the Justice Department --
notably in the recent successes in prosecuting savings and loan
fraud and in indicting the terrorists who plotted the Pan Am
bombing.
Under our new Attorney General, the Justice Department has
four major priorities: First, keep on with the fight against
Ben
Banta
drugs. We're winning some battles. Casual drug use is down, for
ONDCP 4677 arad
instance. But we haven't won this war -- not yet. We'll keep
9890
putting our best efforts and resources into the fight for the
lives and well being of our young people.
Second, we're continuing, and we'll intensify, our efforts
against violent crime. In the federal government, we're
determined to help state and local authorities combat violent
criminals. Bill Barr's leadership in particular will help us
with a new crackdown against career criminals who use firearms.
Third, officials of this White House and this Justice
Department will work vigorously to enforce civil rights laws.
There is complete solidarity in my Administration on the essence
of civil rights, on the need to combat discrimination as a
cancerous social evil. To suggest otherwise undermines every
3
decent American's efforts to promote fundamental fairness and
harmony.
Finally, Bill Barr and his team will roll up their sleeves
to heighten the attack against white-collar crime. We're
determined to strengthen the people's protection against fraud in
financial institutions, insurance, and government procurement.
We'll turn the full force of the law against con artists who
steal people's savings. And we'll do the same to anyone from
abroad who tries to rob our inventors and investors of what is
rightfully theirs.
We won't rest until we have from Congress all the tools we
need to fight crime. [Following language is offered pending
Congressional action:] [[ We need a crime bill that will stop
the endless, frivolous habeas corpus appeals that waste time
prosecutors should be spending on new cases. We need a bill that
tells our police, if they act in good faith, evidence will not be
suppressed in court based on needless technicalities. We need
action on my proposals to make it easier to prosecute criminals
who commit sexual violence against women and children. We need
new protection for victims and witnesses. ]]
((It's true that I've ordered Bill to be ruthless in
fighting crime. But I left the details to him. It's altogether
his idea to try to drive junkies and drug dealers out of our
neighborhoods by playing his bagpipe. We'll have to check and
see whether that violates the Eighth Amendment -- cruel and
unusual punishment. ))
4
Bill Barr will help us straighten out a civil litigation
system that has spun out of control. We've become the most
litigious society in the world. That causes a painful, costly
drain on our economy, on our professions, and ultimately on the
civility we need to hold society together. Bill has been, and
will remain, a stalwart in our efforts for civil justice reform.
For fifteen years, I've been honored to know Bill Barr.
I've been deeply impressed by his fairness and integrity, by his
love of country and of his profession. And now it is my honor to
present [Judge] [Justice] [----], who will administer the oath of
office to the 77th Attorney General of the United States.
Silberman
Shakespeare, william
The
HOME BOOK OF
SHAKESPEARE
QUOTATIONS
Being also a Concordance & a
Glossary of the Unique Words
& Phrases in the Plays & Poems
ARRANGED AND EDITED BY
BURTON STEVENSON
Editor of The Home Book of Verse,
and The Home Book of Quotations
CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
New York
AGE
AGE
AFFLICTION
21
1
8
vould you were set, so your affec-
The affliction of my mind amends.
An old man is twice a child.
1 cease.
The Tempest. Act v, SC. I, 1. I15. [Alonso]
Hamlet. Act ii, SC. 2, 1. 403. [Rosencrantz]
itlemen of Verona. Act ii, SC. I, 1. 90.
I think affliction may subdue the cheek,
Old men fool and children calculate.
-King Lear, ii, I, 100.
But not take in the mind.
Julius Casar. Act i, SC. 3, 1. 65. [Cassius]
Winter's Tale. Act iv, SC. 4, 1. 586. [Perdita]
is a coal that must be cool'd;
Old fools are babes again; and must be used
2
With checks as flatteries.
er'd, it will set the heart on fire.
I count it one of my greatest afflictions, say,
that I cannot pleasure such an honourable
King Lear. Act i, SC. 3, 1. 19. [Goneril]
nd Adonis, 1. 387.
faints not like à pale-faced coward,
Grandsires, babies and old women,
gentleman.
woos best when most his choice is
Either past or not arrived to pith and puissance.
Timon of Athens. Act iii, SC. 2, 1. 62. [Lucius]
Henry V, iii, Prol., 1. 19.
rd.
Chief afflictions.-Timon of Athens, iv, 2, 44.
9
nd Adonis, 1. 569.
3
This affliction has a taste as sweet
Your lordship, though not clean past your
! thy intention stabs the centre:
As any cordial comfort.
youth, hath yet some smack of age in you,
st make possible things not so held,
some relish of the saltness of time.
Winter's Tale. Act v, SC. 3, 1. 76. [Leontes]
II Henry IV. Act i, SC. 2, 1. IIO. [Falstaff]
licatest with dreams.
AGE
inter's Tale. Act i, SC. 2, 1. 138. [Le-
The only use of "saltness."
I-Age and Youth
Falstaff: You that are old consider not the ca-
"Intention" is used only once more,
See also Man: Old and Young Men
Winter's Tale, i, 2, 138.
pacities of us that are young; you do measure
4
WS a sound affection.
'Let me not live,' quoth he,
the heat of our livers with the bitterness of your
's Tale. Act iv, SC. 4, 1. 389. [Camillo]
'After my flame lacks oil, to be the snuff
galls: and we that are in the vaward of our
affection, which cannot choose but
Of younger spirits, whose apprehensive
youth, I must confess are wags too.
senses
Chief Justice: Do you set down your name in
'inter's Tale, i, I, 26. See under ROOT.
All but new things disdain; whose judge-
the scroll of youth, that are written down old
with all the characters of age? Have you not
Vinter's Tale. Act v, SC. 2, 1. III.
greediness of affection.
ments are
a moist eye? a dry hand? a yellow cheek? a
Mere fathers of their garments; whose con-
white beard? a decreasing leg? an increasing
1 Gentleman]
stancies
belly? is not your voice broken? your wind
AFFLICTION
Expire before their fashions.'
short? your chin double? your wit single? and
o Adversity, Disaster, Misfortune
All's Well that Ends Well, i, 2, 58. [King]
every part about you blasted with antiquity?
Young boys and girls Are level now with men.
and will you yet call yourself young? Fie, fie,
Gentle, but unfortunate;
Antony and Cleopatra, iv, 15, 65. [Cleopatra]
fie, Sir John!
estly afflicted, but yet honest.
With his Amazonian chin he drove
II Henry IV. Act i, SC. 2, 1. 196. "Vaward"
eline. Act iv, SC. 2, 1. 39. [Guiderius]
The bristled lips before him.
occurs five times in the plays. The only use
much by his affliction made.
Coriolanus. Act ii, SC. 2, 1. 95. [Cominius]
of "decreasing."
eline. Act v, SC. 4, 1. 108. [Jupiter]
"Amazonian" is repeated in III Henry VI,
Moth: Why tender juvenal? why tender juve-
i, 4, 114: "Amazonian trull"; and "bristled"
nal?
st great affliction of spirit.
in A Midsummer-Night's Dream, ii, 2, 31:
Armado: I spoke it, tender juvenal, as a con-
let. Act iii, SC. 2, 1. 324. [Guildenstern]
"Bristled hair."
gruent epitheton appertaining to thy young
ad he looks! sure, he is much afflicted.
5
Though grey
days, which we may nominate tender.
y VIII. Act ii, SC. 2, 1. 63. [Suffolk]
Do something mingle with our younger
Moth: And I, tough senior, as an appertinent
brown, yet ha' we
title to your old time, which we may name
affliction, peace!
A brain that nourishes our nerves, and can
tough.
John. Act iii, SC. 4, 1. 36. [King Philip]
Get goal for goal of youth.
Love's Labour's Lost. Act i, SC. 2, 1. 12.
affliction.-The Merry Wives of Wind-
Antony and Cleopatra, iv, 8, 19. [Antony]
The only use of "epitheton," an earlier form
v, 5, 178.
6
of epithet. "Congruent" is repeated in v, I,
Man's nature cannot carry
At seventeen years many their fortunes
97, and in no other play. "Appertinent" OC-
ffliction nor the fear.
seek;
curs three times.
/ Lear. Act iii, SC. 2, 1. 49. [Kent]
But at fourscore it is too late a week.
10
0 you mighty gods!
As You Like It. Act ii, sc. 3, 1. 73. [Adam]
The blood of youth burns hot with such ex-
vorld I do renounce, and in your sights,
The oldest hath borne most: we that are young
cess
g Lear. Act iii, SC. 5, 1. 35. [Gloucester]
patiently my great affliction off.
Shall never see so much, nor live so long.
As gravity's revolt to wantonness.
King Lear. Act v, SC. 3, 1. 325. [Albany]
Love's Labour's Lost. Act v, SC. 2, 1. 73.
Henceforth I'll bear
He that no more must say is listen'd more
[Rosaline]
ion till it do cry out itself
Than they whom youth and ease have taught to
11
gh, enough,' and die.
glose.
Young in limbs, in judgement old.
g Lear. Act iv, SC. 6, 1. 75. [Gloucester]
Richard II. Act ii, SC. I, 1. 9. [John of Gaunt]
The Merchant of Venice. Act ii, SC. 7, 1. 71.
Had it pleased heaven
7
[Prince of Morocco, reading scroll]
me with affliction; had they rain'd
By heaven, it is as proper to our age
I never knew so young a body with so old a
y nds of sores and shames on my bare head,
To cast beyond ourselves in our opinions
head.
'd me in poverty to the very lips,
As it is common for the younger sort
The Merchant of Venice. Act iv, SC. I, 1. 163.
uld 1 have found in some place of my soul
to captivity me and my utmost hopes,
To lack discretion.
[Clerk]
Hamlet. Act ii, SC. I, 1. 114. [Polonius]
How much more elder art thou than thy looks!
op of patience.
A very riband in the cap of youth,
The Merchant of Venice. Act iv, SC. I, 1. 251.
hello. Act iv, SC. 2, 1. 47. [Othello]
Yet needful too; for youth no less becomes
[Shylock]
The light and careless livery that it wears
12
ction is enamour'd of thy parts,
Than settled age his sables and his weeds,
Crabbed and youth cannot live together
meo and Juliet. Act iii, sc. 3, 1. 2. [Friar
thou art wedded to calamity.
Importing health and graveness.
Youth is full of pleasance, age is full of care;
Hamlet. Act iv, SC. 7. 1. 78. [King] The only
Youth like summer morn, age like winter
urence]
use of "graveness."
weather;
4
on our professions, and ultimately on the civility we need to
hold society together. Bill has been, and will remain, a
stalwart in our efforts for civil justice reform. ///
I'm confident that Bill Barr possesses in abundance every
quality that makes a great Attorney General: he's tough, fair-
minded -- a man of integrity and intense dedication. ((It's true
that I've ordered Bill to be ruthless in fighting crime. But I
left the details to him. It's altogether his idea to try to
drive junkies and drug dealers out of our neighborhoods by
playing his bagpipe. 11 We'll have to check and see whether that
violates the Eighth Amendment -- cruel and unusual punishment.)
For fifteen years, I've been honored to know Bill Barr.
I've been deeply impressed by his fairness and integrity, by his
love of country and of his profession. And now it is my honor to
present [Judge] [Justice] [----], who will administer the oath of
office to the 77th Attorney General of the United States.
# # #
I've been challenged to explain in 30 seconds why I'm
opposed to the weak substitute bill the Congress wants me to
sign. Start your stopwatch: We need a bill that stands with the
courts, with the cops, and with the victims of crime -- and
against the criminals. // Let me use the rest of my time to
the Americants people's time that's
urge Congress to stop wasting theirs: send me a crime bill -I-can
worth Signing
1
sign.
SENT BY:The White House
11-25-91 ; 5:47PM ;
CABINET AFFAIRS-
6218;# 1
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Office of Cabinet Affairs
Fax Transmission Cover
TO:
BOB Simon
LOCATION:
FAX NUMBER:
6218
FROM:
Jim Fitzhenry
Number of pages to follow: 2
Office of Cabinet Affairs
Telephone:
(202) 456-2800
Fax:
(202) 456-2223
Comments:
Fel
SENT BY:The White House
11-25-91 ; 5:48PM ;
CABINET AFFAIRS-
6218:# 2
*
INVITEES
Congressman Bill Alexander
Non. Donald J. Atwood
Hon. James A. Baker, III
Senator Joseph R. Biden
Hon. Nicholas F. Brady
Cong. Jack Brooks
Senator Hank Brown
Senator Byrd
Cong. Tom J. Campbell
Cong. Bob Carr
Hon. Dick Cheney
Senator Alfonse D'Amato
Senator Danforth
Senator DeConcini
Hon. Edward J. Derwinski
Senator Bob Dole
Hon. Lawrence Eagleburger
Cong. Joe Early
Cong. Don Edwards
Cong. Ham Fish
Cong. Tonm Foley
Cong. Barney Frank
Cong. George Gekas
Cong. Newt Gingrich
Senator Phil Gramm
Senator Charles Grassley
Senator Orrin Hatch
Senator Howell Heflin
Senator Ernest Hollings
Cong. William Hughes
Cong. Henry Hyde
Hon. Jack Kemp
Senator Edward Kennedy
Senator Herbert Kohl
Cong. Jim Kolbe
Senator Patrick Leahy
SENT BY:The White House
;11-25-91 ; 5:48PM ;
CABINET AFFAIRS-
6218;# 3
-
Senator Joseph Lieberman
Senator Trent Lott
Senator Richard Lugar
Hon. Manuel Lujan, Jr.
Hon. Edward Madigan
Hon. Lynn Martin
Cong. Romano Mazzoli
Cong. Bill McCollum
Senator Mitch McConnell
Senator Howard Metzenbaum
Cong. Bob Michel
Senator George Mitchell
Cong. Alan Mollohan
Hon. W. Henson Moore
Cong. Carlos Moorhead
Hon. Robert Mosbacher
Senator Daniel Moynihan
Hon. Peter Nunez
Cong. Nancy Pelosi
Cong. Ralph Regula
cong. Hal Rogers
Senator Bill Roth
Senator Warren Rudman
Rockwell A. Schnabel
Cong. Charles Schumer
cong. Jim Sensenbrenner
Senator Alan Simpson
Senator Paul Simon
Hon. Samual Skinner
Cong. Neal Smith
Senator Arlen Specter
Non. Louis W. Sullivan
Senator Strom Thurmond
Senator John Warner
Hon. James D. Watkins
Cong. Frank R. Wolf
One of the more telling comments of the way the
democratically-controlled Congress views its responsibility to
pass a tough crime bill has come from Senator Biden. If I try
to explain why I would veto a death penalty bill because of a
court ruling on habeas corpus, Mr. Biden is reported to have
said, "I want to see him do it in a 30-second sound bite."
Well this President does not believe in legislating by
sound bite. Apparently, Congress does. I have more confidence
in the American people's ability to spot whose playing
politics here, however.
2?? days ago, I gave the Congress a 100 day challenge to
enact a meaningful crime bill that would be tougher on
criminals than on law enforcement. And 2?? days later,
Congress has presented the American people with a travesty --
truly a sheep in wolf's clothing. So maybe it is fair that Mr.
Biden challenge me to explain in 30 seconds my reasons for
vetoing a bill 2?? days in the making. Although 100 days
versus 30 seconds
Let me just check my watch here. 30 seconds, ok -- I will
veto this bill because --
its death penalty provisions are false advertising. They
purport to enact a Federal death penalty for several
crimes, it contains so many roadblocks that the sentence
would virtually never be imposed;
it makes Habeas corpus no more than a fancy phrase for
throwing open the prison doors for thousands of criminals;
it will handcuff police by letting criminals go free on
legal technicalities even when a police officer acts in
good faith;
it will let murderers go free where there is overwhelming
evidence of guilt because a confession was coerced -- even
though the confession was superfluous to the conviction;
in their effort to get an early start on the holidays, the
Democrats threw out the provisions designed to combat
rape, child molestation, and to protect crime victims.
from Mariame McGettigan OPD
Oct. 23 / Administration of George Bush, 1991
Remarks on Signing the Executive
With all that said, let me get to the heart
Order on Civil Justice Reform
of the matter. Civil justice reform is abso-
October 23, 1991
lutely essential to our country's well-being.
I'm talking about access to health care and
Welcome, everyone. I'm, of course, very
quality of life. Parents are having a tough
grateful to Dan Quayle, our Vice President,
time finding an obstetrician just out there
for his hard work on the issue that I want to
in some of the States because many obste-
discuss today, and to many of you here who
tricians found it wasn't worth it to practice
have been very helpful in all of this. I want
anymore. I'm talking about beneficial new
to single out our nominee for Attorney
products that never reach the marketplace
General, Bill Barr, the Acting Attorney
at all because of liability concerns.
General, and Ken Starr, the Solicitor Gener-
I'm talking about jobs. We got a letter the
al who headed the working group that pro-
other day from an architect in California
duced what I think is a very fine report.
named Charles Yaeger. Here's what he
A little more than 2 months ago, the Vice
wrote, "I have many friends who are going
President outlined our agenda for civil jus-
out of business because of fear of lawsuits."
tice reform before the American Bar Asso-
And I'm talking about inflation and con-
ciation. That speech unleashed a national
sumer prices. The owner of Zaun's Trust-
debate, a flurry of mail here at the White
worthy Hardware in Iowa, Brad Zaun,
House, I might add, and some of the best
wrote to us as follows: "As a business owner
lawyer jokes that I've heard in years.
myself, the liability insurance is getting out
[Laughter]
of hand. The manufacturers could signifi-
But we're not here today to make an easy
cantly lower their prices both wholesale
hit on lawyers. Frankly, I don't think that
and retail, which would stimulate our econ-
the problem rests with lawyers; the prob-
omy."
lem stems from a legal system that just spun
Maybe other countries don't have this
out of control. Sadly, we've become the
problem because every other Western de-
most litigious society in the world.
mocracy has the "loser pays" rule in order
In order to restore sanity to our civil jus-
to discourage senseless lawsuits. Maybe it's
tice system, the Competitiveness Council
because we have most of the world's law-
that the Vice President chairs has recom-
yers here in America. Maybe it's because
mended extensive and concrete steps that
the pop culture in this country encourages
we can take, starting today, to get our legal
lawsuits.
system back on track. There's 50 recom-
I don't know how many of you watch
mendations, and these 50 recommendations
Hulk Hogan in the movie, but he's got a
include changes in the rules of discovery,
brand new movie out there, and at one
adoption in certain areas of the "loser pays"
point he asks the bad guys if they're going
rule, encouragement of alternative dispute
to beat him up. You know what the bad
resolution, caps on punitive damages, and
guys replied? "Hey, this is the nineties;
changes in the rules and expert evidence to
we're going to sue you." [Laughter]
end the use of "junk science" on the wit-
People around the country understand
ness stand.
that, and they have understood it for some
I've named only a few of our many rec-
time. And we've got to get something done
ommendations. Some of these proposals re-
about it. You see the problem everywhere.
quire Federal legislation, and we're going
From the hindrance of new medicines to
to be transmitting that up to the Congress
local bans of firework displays on the
very, very soon. Other proposals require
Fourth of July, the fear of outlandish litiga-
action by the Supreme Court. Today's Exec-
tion has begun to strangle the American
utive order will apply most of these recom-
dream.
mendations, where possible, to the Federal
Americans understand that civil justice
Government. And I'm asking every agency
reform means growth, competitiveness, and
head, many here today, to do everything
jobs. That's why I feel so strongly about
possible to fully and effectively implement
these recommendations by Dan Quayle's
the Executive order.
Competitiveness Council. This is not a par-
1484
Administration of George Bush, 1991 / Oct. 23
tisan issue; we keep making that point. It's
higher standards than those required by the
matter of overcoming the vested interests
rules of procedure in the conduct of Gov-
and changing the status quo to ensure a
ernment litigation in Federal court, and can
better and most prosperous life for all
continue to do so without impairing the ef-
Americans.
fectiveness of its litigation efforts;
The Federal Government is the largest
Whereas, improving the quality of legisla-
single consumer of legal resources. As the
tion and regulation to eliminate ambiguities
client, I'm asking you, the Government's
in drafting would reduce uncertainty and
top lawyers, to help us change the status
unnecessary litigation; and,
quo. The Executive order will hold you to
Whereas, improving the quality of admin-
higher standards than private practitioners.
istrative adjudications would reduce the
But it will also give us the opportunity to
time and resources expended during the ad-
lead the country by example toward civil
ministrative process.
justice reform.
Now, Therefore, I, George Bush, by the
Today we're taking the first step. And
authority vested in me as President by the
now I want to invite Bill Barr and Ken
Constitution and the laws of the United
Starr to join Dan Quayle and me up here as
States of America, including chapter 31 of
I sign this Executive order. And again,
title 28, United States Code, and section
thank you all very much for coming.
301 of title 3, United States Code, and in
order to facilitate the just and efficient reso-
lution of civil claims involving the United
Note: The President spoke at 11:43 a.m. in
States Government, to encourage the filing
the Roosevelt Room at the White House.
of only meritorious civil claims, to improve
legislative and regulatory drafting to reduce
needless litigation, to promote fair and
prompt adjudication before administrative
tribunals, and to provide a model for similar
reforms of litigation practices in the private
Executive Order 12778-Civil Justice
sector and in various states, hereby order as
Reform
follows:
October 23, 1991
Section 1. Guidelines to Promote Just and
Efficient Government Civil Litigation. To
Whereas, the tremendous growth in civil
promote the just and efficient resolution of
litigation has burdened the American court
civil claims, those Federal agencies and liti-
system and has imposed high costs on
gation counsel that conduct or otherwise
American individuals, small businesses, in-
participate in civil litigation on behalf of the
dustry, professionals, and government at all
United States Government in Federal court
levels;
shall respect and adhere to the following
Whereas, several current litigation prac-
guidelines during the conduct of such litiga-
tices add to these burdens and costs by pro-
tion:
longing the resolution of disputes, thus de-
(a) Pre-filing Notice of a Complaint. No
laying just compensation and encouraging
litigation counsel shall file a complaint initi-
wasteful litigation;
ating civil litigation without first making a
reasonable effort to notify all disputants
Whereas, the harmful consequences of
about the nature of the dispute and to at-
these litigation practices may be ameliorat-
tempt to achieve a settlement, or confirm-
ed by encouraging voluntary dispute resolu-
ing that the referring agency that previous-
tion, limitations on unnecessary discovery,
ly handled the dispute has made a reasona-
judicious use of expert testimony, prudent
ble effort to notify the disputants and to
use of sanctions, improved use of litigation
achieve a settlement or has used its concil-
resources, and, where appropriate, modified
iation processes.
fee arrangements;
(b) Settlement Conferences. As soon as
Whereas, the United States sets an exam-
practicable after ascertaining the nature of
ple for private litigation by adhering to
a dispute in litigation, and throughout the
1485
WASH. TIMES 11/13/91
Barr says he has put
BCCI on front burner
By Jerry Seper
227/120/165
proven guidelines.
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
"I don't care how much political pressure
is brought to bear. I don't care what the Op-
Attorney General-designate William P.
Eds say. I don't care what the journalists say
Barr said yesterday he has taken control of
if it's not fast enough for them," he said. "And
the Justice Department's investigation of the
I don't care what the political pressures are:
scandal-plagued Bank of Credit & Commerce
that standard is staying where it is."
International and that "all allegations that
Mr. Barr, whose confirmation by the com
have surfaced are now being pursued aggres-
mittee seems assured, told the senators
sively."
response to a question from Committ-
Mr. Barr, testifying at his Senate Judiciary
Chairman Sen. Joseph R. Biden Jr., Delawa:-
Committee confirmation hearings, accepted
Democrat - that no one from the Wh
personal responsibility for the complex inter-
House, the State Department or the Cer
national fraud probe and invited the senators
Intelligence Agency had attempted to in
to check his progress in the coming months.
fere with the BCCI investigation or influer
"Starting from the time that I have been
its outcome.
involved, I'll accept personal responsibility
Democrats on the committee, who of:
for performance in this case," Mr. Barr said.
feuded with Mr. Thornburgh, had words
"And" I'll be held accountable for it."
praise for Mr. Barr. They said he had made
Some senators and others have accused the
considerable efforts to work with committee
Justice Department of dragging its feet in the
members and staff, and they expected that
BCCI investigation and have suggested that
the goodwill would continue.
former Attorney General Dick Thornburgh,
"You are the lawyer for the people of the
who resigned in August, did not aggressively
country and we want you to always remember
pursue leads and evidence of massive bank
that," said Sen. Paul Simon, Illinois Democrat.
fraud and money laundering uncovered by
"You serve in the president's Cabinet; you
investigators.
serve at the president's will; but you are not
Regulators in the United States, England
the president's lawyer.
and six other nations seized BCCI in July
"You're the lawyer for all the people in this
amid allegations of widespread corruption.
country, and I think on the basis of what I have
Mr. Barr, who assumed control of the BCCI
seen from you, the people are going to be well
probe in late July, said 37 federal prosecutors
served," he said.
and "dozens of agents" are currently as-
Mr. Barr said his priorities as attorney gen-
signed to the investigation. He said he also has
eral would center on fighting drugs and vio-
ordered a separate review of the depart-
lent crime, enforcing civil rights violations
ment's handling of the case prior to his taking
and targeting white-collar criminals. He said
over to determine what mistakes, if any, were
he would enforce laws fairly and impartially
made.
and promised never to bow to political pres-
"A lot has been said about not wanting to
sure.
have a political Justice Department, and I
The 41-year-old New York native, whose
agree with that," he said. "But there's another
testimony before the committee was wit-
side to the coin, and that is: 'Don't hand down
nessed by his wife and three daughters, was
an indictment because of political pressure.'
nominated as attorney general by President
"Don't lower the standard of indictment
Bush on Oct. 16. He formerly served as acting
just because it's politically convenient," he
attorney general, deputy attorney general
said.
and head of the department's Office of Legal
Mr. Barr said he was aware of the criticism
Counsel.
but would proceed on the investigation under
The hearing continues today:
Borr -
- Bag pipes
- Barr Association a
is you
- Nun's prayer
family and
briends
- crime bill econ.
sure 2 Finer
- on e conorney none healthy because on rule of law
- drugs
& regist for property
timely adjuly
- back log T homenes for Judge ships
preditates
tort reform
and us attys
- has recurity fune L too- -
member of NSC -
rule of
low
I conomic orgionale L s teals
in
tworld
one technology
-
nobbing our invelopm
rexual
+ indestry
- - crimes agree women -
of what's
rightfally
horony-
Theirs.
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smill
K
N
DRAFT
SWEARING-IN CEREMONY
(Musical selections by military band during seating.)
Attorney General and Mrs. Barr greet President and Mrs. Bush upon
arrival at the Department of Justice and escort them to the
holding area backstage.
Arrive backstage and greet Barr family members, Acting Deputy
Attorney General George Terwilliger, priest, and judge.
Family members are escorted to their seats in the Great Hall by
Mary Stevens.
Silberman
George Terwilliger, Barr children, priest, and judge proceed to
their seats on stage.
President and Mrs Bush and Attorney General and Mrs. Barr are
announced onto the stage.
Welcome and announcement of the Presentation of Colors by Acting
Deputy Attorney General George Terwilliger.
Presentation of Colors
National Anthem
andience 250
Invocation
INTRO DA.6.Z
President Bush makes remarks.
Swearing-in of William P. Barr as Seventy-Seventh Attorney
General of the United States.
Remarks by Attorney General Barr.
(Short musical selection by bagpipe ensemble.)
Ceremony concludes.
(Musical selections by military band during departure.)
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
9/11/21 SEEN
31 SEP P3:00
September 10, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
JOSEPH P. DUGGAN IPD
SUBJECT:
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BROADCASTERS RADIO ADDRESS
I. SUMMARY
On Thursday, September 12, at 2:00 p.m., you will speak
by live radio hookup to radio broadcasters at the National
Association of Broadcasters Seventh Annual Radio Convention
at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco. Your
speech will be provided live to radio stations for broadcast
around the nation.
II. DISCUSSION
The address (7 minutes) will cover your domestic policy
agenda, mentioning issues such as education, the Thomas
nomination, the crime bill, the war on drugs, environmental
protection and civil liability reform initiatives.
(Duggan/Nix/Dooley)
September 10, 1991
1:30 p.m.
Draft Five
NAB
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
RADIO ADDRESS TO NAB
LIVE RADIO FROM OVAL OFFICE
SEPTEMBER 12, 1991
2:00 PM
Thank you, Gary Chapman and Eddie Fritts. This has been a
proud, historic year for American radio. During Operation Desert
Storm, local radio stations gave tremendous support to our troops
and their families. For all of them, let me thank all of you for
the blood drives, the letter campaigns, and so much more that you
did to lift our spirits during the Gulf crisis.
More recently American broadcasters helped deal the final
blow to Soviet totalitarianism. Brave and enterprising reporters
-- many of them from N.A.B. member stations and affiliated
networks -- broadcast news that the coup plotters' controlled
media dared not report. Though the coup plotters had cut Mikhail
Gorbachev's telephone lines, our Voice of America and Radio
Liberty reached through the confines of his house arrest. They
relayed news possibly vital to his safety and to the recovery of
his freedom.
But America can't remain a radiant source of liberty around
the world unless we renew our strength at home. After all,
America is not just an economic machine or a military power. It
is a civilization, and we all share responsibility for keeping
our civilization healthy.
2
Historic events overseas recently have crowded American
domestic issues out of the news broadcasts and headlines, but not
off of my work docket.
I gave high priority to stewardship of our environment when
I became president. I was fresh out of patience with the
Congressional bickering which had delayed for a decade any
improvements in the Clean Air Act. We worked hard to push a new
act through Congress, an act that lets the genius of the
marketplace help clean our skies.
I have also signed landmark legislation that can welcome
millions of handicapped Americans into the mainstream, and a
family-oriented child care bill that protects the rights of
parents and religious institutions.
These are just some of the accomplishments on our
challenging domestic agenda. As we renew America's core
strengths, we must build an educational system worthy of our
heritage and fit to transmit that heritage to future generations.
Our public school systems are swollen with bureaucracy. They are
perfectly willing to take people's tax money, but they give
parents little choice in their children's schooling.
My proposal to Congress, the America 2000 Excellence in
Education Act, addresses both these problems. We must have
greater accountability and competition. We want all parents to
have the freedom to choose the schools their children attend.
This will stimulate excellence in public, parochial and private
schools.
3
We have challenged parents, students, businesses, and
community leaders to join in developing New American Schools --
schools that break the mold, that help us reinvent American
education.
Long ago I made clear my hopes of serving as an education
President. You see, I can't think of any institution more
important for shaping our future than the schools that instruct
our young men and women. I hope you will join me in building a
crusade for better education, and that you can help us spread the
word that education is everyone's business. On October 1 I will
speak to America's students about their role in building
America's future. I hope you can help us get the word out: We
must make our nation's schools the best in the world.
Congress needs to act, too, on our crime legislation.
Sexual violence and drug-related mayhem scar our nation and
threaten our future. My proposals will make it easier to
prosecute those who commit sexual violence against women and
children. They'll also establish new protections for witnesses
and guarantee the victim's right to address the court at
sentencing.
After two years of intense work, our National Drug Control
Strategy is showing results. Overall drug use has fallen in
recent years. Cocaine use has fallen even more dramatically.
This afternoon I will leave for Philadelphia, where I will visit
a drug treatment center and offer thanks to the volunteers and
professionals who fight the drug battle every day on the front
4
lines. And I'll continue to push for our crime bill, which sets
tougher sanctions against drug kingpins.
We are working for new programs to promote economic freedom
and growth. Our Enterprise Zone legislation will bring new jobs
Our HOPE initiative will help low-income
We've got a strong,
own homes.
innovative transportation
o fight schemes for needless taxation and
ongress want to send me a pork-barrel
transp.
bill yet
that raises gasoline taxes and mandates
at states don't need. That kind of
1 straight for a roadblock -- my veto.
st lasting domestic legacy is his judicial
Clarence Thomas, my nominee for the Supreme
Court, is a man of courage, scholarship and common sense. I am
looking forward to his giving fresh expression to the philosophy
of our Constitution's Framers well into the 21st Century.
America is a beacon of hope in the world because of our
qualities as a civilization. But to carry this legacy forward we
must give our children the education they deserve. We must drive
violent criminals from our streets. We must free our economy
from excessive taxation and bureaucratic meddling. We must keep
our families healthy and whole.
If Congress will work with me to enact a fair domestic
agenda, the 21st Century can be another proud "American Century." "
With a healthy civilization at home, we will be not just a
powerful nation. We will be, as our Founding Fathers envisioned,
5
a model for the world. Thank you, and God bless the United
States of America.
And now, in keeping with radio tradition: Back to you,
Eddie!
[FRITTS RESPONDS:] Thank you, Mr. President, for joining
America's broadcasters in our celebration of radio.
[THE PRESIDENT:] Thank you for inviting me, and I hope you
have a wonderful convention.
#
#
#
11/22/91
11:48
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ODAG
1
001/005
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of the Deputy Attorney General
91 NOV 22 All: 06
-
The Deputy Attorney General
DATE: Washington, D.C. 20530 11-22-91
TO:
Joe Duggan
WH Specchwriter
Fax No. : (
) 456-6218 Telephone No. : (
)
-
FROM:
William P. Barr
attorney General
Fax No. : (
)
-
Telephone No. : (
) 514-2101 514 2101
TRANSMISSION CONTAINS 5 SHEETS INCLUDING THIS COVER SHEET
SPECIAL NOTE (S) :
If any page (s) are missing from this transmission, please
telephone sender at the above telephone number for
re-transmission.
11/22/91
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PRIORITIES
Misleading to talk about priorities because job of DOJ is to
enforce all the laws across the board. I wouldn't want to
suggest that to upgrade our efforts in one area, we would give
short shrift to another.
So my first priority is to ensure that we are covering all
the bases with our limited resources.
My second priority is also a cross-cutting one. I want to
continue to foster the integrity and professionalism of the
Department as an institution. Attorneys General come and go. So
the character of the Department as an institution has much to do
with the fair administration of justice. I want to leave the
Department a better place. I feel I can do that by example and
by insisting on professionalism at every level.
Beyond these two cross-cutting priorities, there are several
areas where I would put emphasis.
1.
Drug War
Obviously our war against drugs must remain a priority. It
will be a protracted struggle. I would keep pressing.
Violent Crime
The level of violence in our society is intolerable. We can
never forget that the first duty of government is to protect its
citizens against predators. While violent crime is primarily a
state and local matter, I think there are ways that the federal
government can play a leadership role and have a real impact.
3.
Civil Rights
In the civil rights area there are sometimes policy
differences. (We recently bridged differences.) But there is a
broader area of agreement. No dispute that discrimination is an
abomination -- it is antithetical to all this nation stands for.
Enforcement of civil rights will be a priority with me.
I will vigorously enforce the civil rights laws and I will
be aggressive in protecting the civil rights of all Americans.
We have made progress against discrimination in this country, but
discrimination still exists. I will be vigilant in watching for
it and aggressive in dealing with it.
I intend to be pro-active One of my first acts as Acting
Attorney General came in the wake of the HUD survey and Fed
Report on possible discrimination in the housing area. I wanted
stepped up enforcement.
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4.
White Collar
I will also place emphasis on attacking White Collar crime.
This will mean keeping up the effort on certain key areas:
--
Financial Institutions Fraud
--
Procurement Fraud
-
HUD Fraud
But it also means anticipating emerging problem areas and
positioning Department to deal with them.
-
Insurance Fraud
--
Computer Fraud
--
Health Care Fraud
1
Bankruptcy Fraud
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ACCOMPLISHMENTS
1.
Established a management style that has been good for the
Department. Accessible. Emphasis on teamwork.
Professional team in place. Good communication within the
Department. Minimize turf fights and build greater
cohesion.
2.
Supervision of the effort against Financial Institution
Fraud, principally S&Ls. Drew responsibility directly in
DAG office. Set up system to prioritize, allocate
resources, monitor cases, coordinate with regulatory
agencies.
3.
Work with Congress to get important legislation:
--
Crime control Act of 1990
--
Debt Collection Act
This years crime bill
)
4.
In Civil Rights I moved aggressively in the Fair Housing
area with Testers and inter-agency group to coordinate
investigation of discrimination in mortgages.
5.
Developed in DAG's office violent crime initiatives --
Triggerlock and Weed & Seed
6.
Tackled difficult management areas in DOJ:
INS
Asset Forfeiture
7.
Strengthened cooperation with state and local law
enforcement.
NDAA
:
NAAG
--
LECCs
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Triggerlock: started April 1991. All
USAs have task forces. Through September:
Charged -- 2652 defendants
Convicted: 544 (91% conviction rate)
Triggerlock defendants include the primary
suspect in the Gainesville murders and
50 members of the Vice Lords, a violent
Chicago street gang.
Aug. 13 / Administration of George Bush, 1991
realities, and important opportunities that
February 28, 1993. He would succeed L.
now confront us.
William Seidman.
This report emphasizes the enduring po-
Currently Mr. Taylor serves as staff direc-
litical, economic, and military foundations
tor of the Division of Banking Supervision
of our national strategy, yet acknowledges
and Regulation at the Board of Governors
the mandate for change in implementing
of the Federal Reserve Bank in Washington,
elements of that strategy. While addressing
DC. He served as a bank examiner with the
our strategic relationship with the Soviet
Federal Reserve Bank in Chicago, IL, 1961-
Union as an inescapable priority, we will
1968; and as vice president in charge of
work with our allies to respond to new po-
lending with the Upper Avenue Bank in
litical challenges, taking into account a
Chicago, IL, 1968-1972. From 1972 to
more internally oriented and less threaten-
1976, he served as vice president and man-
ing Soviet Union. While contributing to
ager of James W. Rouse and Co., a real
global stability as only America can, we will
estate development and banking firm in
shift our focus to regional threats and
Chicago, IL.
peaceful engagement. While reducing nu-
Mr. Taylor graduated from Cornell Col-
clear and conventional force levels on the
lege (B.A., 1961). He was born June 24,
Continent, we will work with our NATO
1939, in Chicago, IL. Mr. Taylor is married,
allies to foster reconciliation, security, and
has three children, and resides in Oakton,
democracy in a Europe whole and free.
VA.
And while providing adequately for our de-
fense, our economic well-being will remain
the foundation of our long-term strength.
Our response to strategic challenges has
Remarks at the Annual Convention of
always been shaped by what we are as a
the National Fraternal Order of Police
people, for our values are the link between
our past and our future, between our do-
in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
mestic life and our foreign policy, between
August 14, 1991
our power and our purpose. Our responsi-
bility as a Nation remains not only to pro-
Thank you all. And Dewey, thank you for
tect our citizens and our interests but also
that very generous introduction. The Gov-
ernment has a good relationship with this
to help create a new world in which our
fundamental ideals not only survive but
outstanding organization. Many of you have
been to the White House. Many more I.
flourish. That is the essence of our national
security strategy.
hope will come. But I want to thank your
I look to this report to be the foundation
president for the introduction and for his
for a productive, nonpartisan, national
leadership.
I want to, of course, salute the Attorney
dialog as we continue to develop and articu-
late a strategic approach that will guide us
General, Dick Thornburgh, so well-known
to everybody, not just in Pittsburgh, but
safely into the 21st century.
across this country, for the job he's done for
law enforcement. I want to thank the mem-
bers of the Fraternal Order of Police, ladies
and gentlemen. I want to thank all of you,
Nomination of William Taylor To Be a
all 3,000 of you, for the warmth of that
Member and Chairperson of the Board
greeting.
of Directors of the Federal Deposit
Now I know how Barry Bonds and Bobby
Insurance Corporation
Bonilla feel over at Three Rivers Stadium.
August 13, 1991
[Laughter] I don't think so many great de-
fenders have gathered in Pittsburgh since
The President today announced his inten-
the last reunion of the Steelers' Super Bowl
tion to nominate William Taylor, of Illinois,
teams. [Laughter]
to be a member and Chairperson of the
A couple of years ago, 2 years ago, I was
Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit
scheduled to address you. I couldn't be-
Insurance Corporation for a term expiring
cause of the tragic death of an American
1134
Administration of George Bush, 1991 / Aug. 14
hostage. Maybe you all remember him. I
that I want to talk about. Frankly, I am
certainly do: Colonel William Higgins.
proud of our domestic agenda, our adminis-
Today, I am delighted to be here at a time
tration's domestic agenda. We have strong
when hostages are being released from the
initiatives in child care and clean air and
Middle East.
home ownership and transportation, and
This is a very difficult time, let's face it,
for the families of those still held hostage.
other areas as well. But I'm especially
For years they've endured the cruel water
proud of our war on crime. Our outgoing
torture, you might say, of occasional vague
Attorney General, with me here today,
promises followed by crushing disappoint-
Dick Thornburgh, has played a tremendous
ment. They've seen their loved ones used as
role in this fight. And he's taken his job as
political puppets, but they haven't been
America's chief law enforcement officer
able to identify the puppeteers.
very seriously. Relentlessly, tenaciously, he's
We cannot tell, I wish I could tell you,
pursued those who prey on our society. 13
but we cannot tell what lies ahead. But this
Dick, on behalf of all Americans I want to
administration will never rest until every
thank you in this, your home town of Pitts-
hostage is free to rejoin his loved ones and
burgh, for your superb service to our coun-
return to the America that loves them.
try as Attorney General. Leaving politics
I think it's appropriate to say that I want
aside, this Nation owes you a real vote of
to once again express my strong support to
gratitude.
Secretary-General Javier Perez de Cuellar
We come here armed with some good
of the United Nations for his continuing ef-
news. Last year the percentage of American
forts to free all the hostages. They're doing
households affected by crime fell to an esti-
a good job there and trying hard, and we
mated 24 percent, the lowest rate since the
support him 100 percent.
Federal Government introduced this indica-
And I look out over this crowd, and I
tor in 1975. But as good as that may sound,
expect many fought in the war preceding
it is hard to celebrate the fact that nearly
Desert Storm. And I might say to those who
one in every four households feels the touch
did serve in Vietnam, while we're talking
of crime each year. So today let's talk about
about accounting for people: We will do
building an America even more deeply
everything to our level-best to account for
committed to the values that make law and
every single MIA in the Vietnam area.
order possible.
I'm here today because, as in the Middle
East, our entire administration opposes
One good step in my view would be to
ensure that Clarence Thomas becomes the
chaos and lawlessness, and stands shoulder-
to-shoulder with those who strive for law
next Justice on the United States Supreme
and order. And Dewey, once again, thank
Court. This man knows, Clarence Thomas
you for your kind words.
knows, as Teddy Roosevelt said, that Amer-
As you well know, there are no magic,
ica will not be a good place for any of us
one-step solutions to the complex problems
until it is a good place for all of us to live in.
of crime and drugs. In some cases, educa-
He has lived the values that we hold dear:
tion, employment, career counseling-these
duty, decency, and personal responsibility.
things sometimes can help turn prisoners
And he's promoted those values through his
into productive citizens. And we recognize
career in public service.
that. Drug rehabilitation can direct ex-drug
I don't know how many saw the an-
users toward useful lives. But sometimes
nouncement I made up in Maine with Clar-
these means don't work. And we must re-
ence by my side when I announced this
member that the first obligation of a penal
appointment, but his personal story cannot
system is to punish those who break our
help but move people, inspire them.
aws.
I nominated Judge Thomas because he
Today, I want to discuss ways in which
has the brains and the background, the
we can help free America from the fear of
character to promote fidelity to the Consti-
crime and drugs, and in the process thank
tution and to uphold our commitment to
those of you in this organization who have
equal opportunity. I ask you to help support
had a constructive input into the legislation
those values by urging the Senate to con-
1135
Aug. 14 / Administration of George Bush, 1991
firm Clarence Thomas as our next Supreme
er, we've seized criminals' assets, using
Court Justice.
them to fund law enforcement and building
Values, values is what we're talking
new prisons. More than $700 million of the
about. It's what drives you in your careers.
assets seized have been returned to State
We can't underestimate the importance of
and local law enforcement agencies for use
these values since, as you know, police
in fighting crime. You talk about poetic jus-
cannot maintain the peace without the
tice; that's it. And it's long overdue.
help, the support, and the respect of the
But this is just a beginning, and you know
people they serve.
it. You're out there on the front lines. You
When you deal with crime's victims and
know it better than I do. We have a very
its perpetrators, you know that our citizens
good chance this year of passing the admin-
want and deserve to feel safe, to live in
istration's comprehensive package to
communities in which they are safe. But no
combat violent crime. Nearly two and a half
one should underestimate the difficulty of
years ago I announced our Violent Crime
bringing order to streets decimated by law-
Act legislation, asking Congress to back up
lessness and chaos. 20
our law enforcement officials with laws that
First, our administration is committed to
are fair, fast, and final. That package starts
rewarding good police work. By the end of
with a commonsense proposition: Don't
this year, we will have 50 percent more
send police into battle wearing handcuffs. 45
Federal prosecutors than in 1988. We're on
And so, we proposed stiff penalties for
our way to doubling the capacity of the
Federal prisons. That will help us house
criminals using semiautomatic weapons, an
more than 2,500 dangerous criminals con-
improved exclusionary rule, and habeas
victed since 1989 under tough Federal laws
corpus reforms. These proposals-and if you
that require a mandatory 5-year sentence
haven't seen them, take a look at them—
for using a gun in a violent crime or a drug
these proposals tell criminals: You will serv
trafficking offense.
the time. They also tell police and law-abid
We've acted to curb potential furlough
ing citizens: We will reclaim our neighbor-
abuse. Under Dick Thornburgh, and I salute
hoods and streets.
him for this, we've tightened the furlough
Our package also says: Let's give our law
review process for inmates, further restrict-
officers the respect they deserve, in part by
ing the already limited furlough opportuni-
imposing the death penalty on those who
ties for Federal offenders. In April of 1989
kill a law enforcement officer.
the furlough rate was 1.2 per 100 inmates.
Our proposals impose tough punishment
This April it'll be less than half that. And of
on drug kingpins who threaten a Federal
course, no furloughs are granted for anyone
witness or a juror or a judge. We want a
serving a sentence of life without parole.
good faith exception to the exclusionary
There will be no let-up. Furlough is a privi-
rule. There's no reason, none at all, that
lege, and it's not a right. 31
good police officers should be penalized
And again, with the help of many here,
and criminals freed because a judge or
our administration has acted to punish hard-
lawyer bungled a search warrant. We want
ened criminals-career-what you all call
habeas corpus reform that will prevent
career criminals-under the Federal Armed
criminals and lawyers from using technicali-
Criminal Career Act. You shouldn't have to
ties to gum up our justice system.
endure the frustration of watching a sea-
In short, the time has come to show less
soned criminal walk free because we didn't
compassion for the architects of crime and
have the facilities or the prosecutors or the
more compassion for its victims. And you all
will to take the law, and our law enforce-
know it: no group suffers more from violent
ment officers, seriously. We would like
crime than the poor, a group most heavily
every State to have tough laws to deal with
victimized by lawlessness. 55
violent criminals. But we're not waiting for
Working with Congress, we reauthorized
those who don't.
the 1984 Victims of Crime Act and boosted
Project Triggerlock, started just in April,
its annual Victims Compensation and Assist-
already has produced 850 indictments
ance Fund to $150 million. These dollars
against persons for firearm offenses. Togeth-
came not from taxpayers but from crimi-
1136
Administration of George Bush, 1991 / Aug. 15
nals' fines and penalties. After all, crime
the line or the husbands who see their
shouldn't pay; let the criminals pay it for a
wives out on the line, protecting the com-
change. And that's what happens as we try
munities in this country. And we are grate-
to support these victims of crime.
ful to each and every one of you for what
We stepped up efforts to implement the
you do every single day:
Victim-Witness Protection Act and the new
Now, you keep up the good work: Thanks
Victims' Rights and Restitution Act. And let
for what you've done. Thanks for your sup-
me note how our Violent Crime Control
port. And may God bless the United States
Act of 1991 gives further aid to innocent
of America. Thank you very, very much.
victims of crime. It includes new protec-
tions for witnesses and abused kids. It pro-
vides rules that make it easier to prosecute
those who commit sexual violence against
Note: The President spoke at 9:49 a.m. at
women and children. It imposes mandatory
the David Lawrence Convention Center. In
HIV testing of accused sex offenders, and it
his remarks, he referred to Dewey R. Stokes,
guarantees a victim's right to address the
president of the National Fraternal Order
court at sentencing.
of Police; Attorney General Dick Thorn-
I'm very happy that a bipartisan coalition
burgh; Barry Bonds and Bobby Bonilla,
in the Senate has passed a crime bill that
members of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball
includes most of the features in our original
team; American hostage Col. William Hig-
legislation. We now look for the House Judi-
gins, who was executed by his captors in
ciary Committee to act in an equally re-
1989; United Nations Secretary-General
sponsible manner, so that the full House
Javier Perez de Cuellar de la Guerra; and
may follow suit.
Judge Clarence Thomas, nominee for Su-
To build upon this Nation's commitment
preme Court Associate Justice. Following his
to order, we must enact a comprehensive
remarks, the President returned to Kenne-
crime bill that lets police uphold our laws.
bunkport, ME.
But at the same time, we should be very
careful not to make police responsible for
creating peace everywhere.
After all, the fight against crime is every-
one's business. Families and neighborhoods,
and schools and churches, and drug shelters
and businesses and the media-everyone
Statement on Signing the Intelligence
must join this fight. You cannot do your jobs
Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 1991
if citizens don't call you, don't trust you,
August 14, 1991
don't work with you. And you can't turn
bad people into saints.
Today I have signed H.R. 1455, the "In-
For 75 years, this organization, the Fra-
telligence Authorization Act, Fiscal Year
ternal Order of Police, has supported the
1991."
men and women who have the tough duty
I am pleased that the Congress has elimi-
of keeping the peace. I pledge my support,
nated the most serious problems identified
and I offer this commitment: Our adminis-
in my Memorandum of Disapproval of No-
tration will help you take criminals off the
vember 30, 1990, regarding its predecessor,
streets, so that Americans can take back
S. 2834 (101st Congress). In particular, I am
their streets.
pleased that the Act, as revised, omits any
Barbara asked that I specifically bring you
suggestion that a "request" by the United
her greetings. She's up to her eyeballs in
States Government to third parties may
the grandchild business, as we're on vaca-
constitute "covert action" as defined by the
tion over there in Maine. [Laughter] But I
Act. In addition, I am pleased that the re-
want to just say this, since several in our
vised provision concerning "timely" notice
receiving line mentioned her. She agrees
to the Congress of covert actions incorpo-
with this and stands with you all, particular-
rates without substantive change the re-
ly the family aspects of this-the wives and
quirement found in existing law. I reiterate
the children who see their husbands out on
my intention to proceed in this area as out-
1137
Clarence
thom
for
- Losucerd
Sut
g
Bin
For Nominee Barr, an Unusual Path to Attorney proney General's Office
WASH. POST: 11/12/91
sue leads of criminal activity at the Bank of
"He was astute, personable, and he had a
accepted the Supreme Court's ruling up-
By Sharon LaFraniere
Credit and Commerce International? The
good finger on the pulse of what was going
holding the statute.
Washington Post Staff Writer
alleged prosecutorial foot-dragging pre-
on," said George Cary, former legislative
As OLC chief, he provided legal reason-
The road to the attorney general's office
dates Barr's tenure, but the issue continues
counsel for the agency.
ing used by the administration to justify the
traditionally is paved with good connec-
Barr graduated second in his law school
invasion of Panama and the arrest of Man-
to dog the department.
tions. Presidents have favored their cam-
That Barr, 41, is a conservative goes
class and left the CIA for a coveted clerk-
uel Antonio Noriega. He also wrote an opin-
paign managers, personal lawyers, top aides
without question. Although some conser-
ship with Malcolm R. Wilkey, a judge on the
ion that states the administration has the
vative groups initially questioned Thorn-
D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals.
power to arrest terrorists overseas, even in
or, at least, a former senator or judge.
burgh's credentials as a conservative, they
The judge proved an important connec-
violation of international law.
Now comes William Pelham Barr, bu-
reaucrat, whose legal career began only 14
have "a sense of confidence in Barr, to start
tion. Wilkey, who once described Barr as
After he became deputy attorney general
years ago with night law classes at George
off
with
that he is one of us," said Tom
the perfect blend of "intellectual brilliance
in May 1990, Barr advised Bush that he had
Washington University. President Bush's
Jipping of the Free Congress Foundation.
and good common sense," helped Barr get a
the legal authority to wage war against Iraq
Barr told one associate jokingly: "The
job at the Shaw, Pittman firm. He also in-
without obtaining Congress's consent. At
nominee for attorney general arrives at his
troduced him to Mike Uhlmann, who asked
the same time, however, he encouraged the
confirmation hearings today before the Sen-
most radical period I had probably was
when I was sort of a moderate Republican."
Barr to work on the Reagan administra-
president to seek a congressional resolution
ate Judiciary Committee through the wildly
Barr "seems to be comfortable with"
tion's transition team and, later, at the Rea-
of support, saying it would put Bush in a
unusual route of government service.
Bush's antiabortion views, according to Pe-
gan White House's office of policy develop-
stronger position, according to "The Com-
Legal observers compare Barr's nomi-
ter Ferrara, a friend from the firm of Shaw,
ment.
manders," a book by Washington Post as-
nation to President Jimmy Carter's selec-
Barr's two years at the White House pro-
sistant managing editor Bob Woodward.
Pittman, Potts & Trowbridge, where Barr
tion of Benjamin R. Civiletti, a consummate
duced no legislation on his main issue of
On other issues, administration officials
handled civil cases for nine years. Barr also
professional who became attorney general
shares the broad interpretation of presiden-
tuition tax credits for low-income parents of
say Barr employed a kind of quiet determi-
after a similarly rapid rise through Justice
tial powers advanced by Bush and Gray.
private school students. But he returned to
nation and practical approach to his advan-
Department posts. Like Civiletti, Barr is
William Bradford Reynolds, who headed
Shaw, Pittman with another important
tage. After initially embracing an OLC opin-
known as a cool-headed manager without
the Justice Department's civil rights divi-
friend: Gray, who then worked for Vice
ion that appeared to narrow the scope of
political ambitions.
WILLIAM P. BARR
President Bush.
the inspector generals' powers, for exam-
sion under President Ronald Reagan, said,
In 18 months as deputy attorney general,
"Bill is much more adamant and concerned
favorable reviews but also uncertainties
Barr left the law firm again to become an
ple, Barr negotiated an agreement that re-
assured the IGs of their authority without
Barr was considered a conciliator at a Jus-
about separation-of-powers issues than
early supporter of Bush's presidential cam-
tice Department in turmoil during most of
Thornburgh was."
paign, telling friends he admired Bush's
abandoning the principle outlined in the
taken aside by a nun, who promised to pray
Attorney General Dick Thornburgh's ten-
"There's been a strain of strong commit-
for him. He told his high school guidance
leadership at the CIA. He helped screen
opinion.
ure. Department officials say Barr tem-
ment to executive power since the Reagan
counselor he wanted to head the Central
vice presidential candidates and answer the
When Thornburgh tapped Barr as his
administration, but it's a question of how
Intelligence Agency.
deluge of questions about Dan Quayle's
deputy, Barr helped to bridge a painful gap
pered candor with discretion, a strong will
much of a good thing is too much?" said an-
past, later aiding Gray in guiding Bush's
between the aloof attorney general and a
with a tolerance for the personalities and
Rightly figuring the CIA needed Chinese
presidential appointees through ethics ques-
frustrated staff. His steady handling of a
views of others.
other former high-ranking Justice Depart-
experts, Barr concentrated on Chinese
But the favorable reviews that are ex-
ment official, who spoke on the condition he
studies as an undergraduate and graduate
tions.
hostage crisis at an Alabama prison after
not be named.
student at Columbia. He shied from college
A choice position in the administration
Thornburgh resigned in August also helped
pected to win Barr easy confirmation are
Barr has told friends his conservatism
political organizations, but participated in a
came through in early 1989, when Thorn-
him catch Bush's attention.
accompanied by uncertainties for some sen-
and his interest in government came early.
burgh, encouraged by Uhlmann, asked Barr
One senior Justice Department official
group that demonstrated against the sei-
ators and former Justice Department offi-
The second of four boys born to an academ-
to head the Justice Department's Office of
sees the difference between Thornburgh
zure of administration buildings by student
cials. Is Barr too much an advocate for pres-
ic couple, Barr grew up on New York's Up-
radicals in 1968. "I remember him as a sol-
Legal Counsel. The OLC attracts little pub-
and Barr at lunchtime. Under Thornburgh.
idential power? Does his nomination mean
per West Side. His father, an active Repub-
id, thoughtful, dependable sort of fellow,"
lic attention but requires close contact with
"we would have an unwritten agenda, the
the final ascendancy of the White House
lican, was an assistant dean at Columbia's
said the Rev. Vincent J. Rigdon, a former
the White House counsel's office.
attorney general's agenda, at occasional
counsel over the role of attorney general?
engineering school and later headmaster of
classmate.
Barr's confirmation hearings provided a
lunches. It was much more formal, hierar-
Barr owes his advancement partly to pow-
a New York City prep school. His mother
He went from graduate school to the
hint of his later advocacy for the powers of
chical and structured," he said. "Bill has
erful White House counsel C. Boyden Gray,
taught English to foreign students.
CIA's Chinese unit, and soon requested a
the executive branch. Barr testified that he
opened up the luncheons."
who controlled the administration's civil
As a kindergartner, Barr gave a speech
transfer to legislative affairs. There he re-
"entertained doubts" about whether the
"Unless this guy is a superb actor and
rights policy during Thornburgh's tenure.
for Dwight D. Eisenhower. At his Roman
viewed legislation and occasionally helped
post-Watergate independent counsel stat-
fooling everybody, he's a refreshing
Can Barr counter criticism that the Jus-
Catholic elementary school, he announced
write testimony for the director, George
ute violated the Constitution by impinging
change," said another high-ranking Justice
tice Department failed to aggressively pur-
his support for Richard M. Nixon and was
Bush, while attending law school at night.
on the president's power. But he said he
Department official.
ris
is
his
enough
to
sover
stagem
WALL ST.J. 10/21/91
120/225 An Attorney General's Brief
No nomination is safe in the poi-
are ever more desperate. Still, Justice
sonous atmosphere of Washington, but
Thomas proved that resolute nomin-
we detected a sigh of relief at both
ees can prevail even if they have pa-
ends of Pennsylvania Avenue when
per trails. Justice can help protect the
President Bush nominated William
personal reputations of nominees, per-
Barr for Attorney General. Despite
haps starting with a criminal investi-
his conservative credentials, the low-
gation into the Thomas-hearing FBI
key Mr. Barr probably won't draw the
leak.
long knives on Capitol Hill. After a
Protecting the Presidency. Until
decade of personal attacks on Edwin
recently, Mr. Barr ran Justice's Of
Meese and the PR problems of Dick
fice of Legal Counse] which helps de-
Thornburgh, it will be good to have an
fend separation of powers, Next year,
Attorney General in a position to
the Attorney General could help stop
make the issues the issue.
of powers
reauthorization of budgetless, perma-
President Bush chose Deputy At-
nent, single-target special prosecutors
torney General Barr over several
appointed by Congress to criminalize
well-known politicians in part to save
policy differences with the President's
the staff briefings every time a legal
aides. Lawrence Walsh is the best ar-
crisis occurs. There is often no time
gument that the law doesn't need such
for this luxury, whether it's an uncon-
excesses.
Barr
stitutional demand from Congress or
Taming Envirolitigators. Vague
some off-the-reservation federal pros-
environmental laws created a growth
ecutor planning to indict a foreign
industry in lawsuits and criminal
head of state It's also a sign that Mr.
prosecutions, which have the main ef-
(Bush expects the Justice Department
fect of driving up the cost of doing
associatio
to play its part in his domestic agenda
business in this country. The blood-
item of removing the grotesqueries
sport prosecution of Exxon for the
from American law. Reform needs all
Alaska oil spill alleged that the acci-
the help it can get:
dent was intentional. The huge settle-
Lawyers Need Bashing. Dan
ment included the curious admission
Quayle started the fight for tort re-
that the spill amounted to hunting mi-
form, joined by Solicitor General Ken-
gratory birds without a license. Wet-
neth Starr, but only the full weight of
lands are a special problem, with Jus-
fort
the Justice Department can go shoul-
tice prosecuting people who clear rub-
der to shoulder with the plaintiff-law-
bish off what some bureaucrat des-
yer bar and its PACs. The organized
ignates as a wetland. Instead, Justice
reform
bar opposes the litigation-dampening
should enforce the Takings Clause of
idea that the winning party should get
the Constitution by insisting on com-
his legal fees paid, and will fall on its
pensation for owners from losses in
sword to keep the lottery of punitive
value due to wetlands protection.
damages. The main reform hurdle is
An End to RICO? Justice has been
the high percentage of Members of
on the wrong side of the RICO debate
Congress who were and could again
ever since Rudy Giuliani discovered
be. trial lawyers.
that yelling Racketeer was easier
Credit-Crunching Lawsuits. Attor-
than proving real crime. Mr. Quayle
neys. General usually don't worry
has sent word that he expects Justice
about the economy, but that was be-
to get on board behind reforming civil
See
RICO, such as the absurd racketeer-
fore the law helped create this reces-
sion. Bankers and their would-be cus-
ing cases between heirs, Fortune 100s
and feuding rabbis.
tonters understand the chill from
Mr. Barr would take office at a
overzealous regulators, who know that
Congress and federal prosecutors are
crossroads. With Justice Thomas, 'it
looks as if the next ideological divide
still looking for scapegoats. The junk-
bond market may rebound, for exam-
in the Supreme Court will be between
ple; but government lawsuits against
conservatives and libertarians, no
longer between conservatives and lib-
Michael Milken allege it's all a hoax.
erals. Economic liberties should also
Last. week prosecutors argued that
while Mr. Milken has cooperated, he
rise to the top of Justice's agenda. If
should rot in jail because he hasn't
Mr. Barr needs aides who understand
given them any new scalps. Appeals
these issues, University of Chicago
courts meanwhile are busily overturn-
Prof. Richard Epstein and George
ing securities convictions that judges
Mason Law Dean Henry Manne can
believe were based on witnesses, such
provide references.
as Ivan Boesky, whose "cooperation"
More than ever, this is a country
was making up stories.
where every issue, from abortion to
declaring war, somehow becomes a
More Clarence Thomases. The ju-
legal issue. We hope Attorney General
dicial-nomination process at all levels
Barr will take the lead in returning
of the federal courts may get even
the law to its proper; more modest
seamier now that the special interests
role.
POST: 10/17/91
Barr to Be Named Attorney General to Succeed Thornburgh
By John E. Yang
120
The president, impressed by Barr's
Panama that led to the arrest of Pan-
began repairing Thornburgh's polit-
and Sharon LaFraniere
22T
handling of a prisoner uprising at the
amanian dictator Manuel Antonio
ical damage.
Washington Post Staff Writers
Talladega Federal Correctional In-
Noriega. Barr also wrote a contro-
"People feel comfortable around
stitution in Alabama in August,
versial opinion saying that the pres-
him," said William Bradford Reyn-
President Bush said yesterday he
added: "He's been tested by fire."
ident has the authority to order the
olds, former head of the depart-
would nominate acting Attorney
"I'm honored that you have select-
FBI to arrest fugitives in foreign
ment's Civil Rights Division who
General William P. Barr, who has
ed me," responded Barr, who was
countries without the consent of
worked with Barr at Shaw, Pittman,
been running the Justice Department
told he had been chosen 45 minutes
those governments
Potts & Trowbridge and when Barr
since Dick Thornburgh returned to
before the announcement. "What
Barr was selected over candidates
was on the Reagan White House do-
Pennsylvania two months ago to run
makes it a particular honor is the
with more political backgrounds, in-
mestic policy staff. "He's got a way
for the Senate, to take the job per-
opportunity to serve a president who
cluding Missouri Gov. John Ashcroft
of listening well, he's sensitive,
manently.
is such a strong supporter of law en-
(R) and former California governor.
think he's extraordinarily effective
forcement."
While the timing of the announce-
George Deukmejjan (R). In the end,
dealing with people."
Administration officials, described
it came down to a choice between
ment was a surprise-a Rose Gar-
as "exhausted" by the battle over the
Barr helped screen vice presiden-
den ceremony honoring federal law
Barr and Transportation Secretary
tial possibilities in Bush's 1988 cam-
nomination of Clarence Thomas to
Samuel K. Skinner, according to ad-
enforcement officials-the selection
paign, served on the transition team
the Supreme Court, wanted to wait
ministration officials.
was not. Barr, described as a prag-
and is said to have a strong endorse
until that was over before sending
His nomination was welcomed by
matic conservative with good polit-
ment from Robert M. Teeter, a sen-
another nominee to the Senate.
conservative legal groups. "He has
ical instincts, was "the leading can-
As it is, the administration still
ior Bush political adviser. During his
been a consistent conservative voice
tenure in the Reagan White House,
didate all along" for the job, White
faces a fight over the nomination of
within the administration," said Clint
Robert M. Gates, Bush's deputy na-
Barr also got to know C. Boyden
House press secretary Marlin Fitz-
Bolick of the Institute for Justice.
tional security adviser, to run the
Gray, Bush's counsel as vice pres
water said.
"He's not a crusader
but give
Central Intelligence Agency. The
ident and as president.
He is "Bush's kind of guy. He's
REUTER
him a legal issue and he will gener-
Senate Select Committee on Intel-
In a Rose Garden surprise, Bush announces selection of William P. Barr, left.
Barr, who plays bagpipe as a
smart, political, aggressive without
ally come down on the conservative
being obnoxious and does not grand-
ligence is to vote on Gates Friday.
hobby, received bachelor's and mas
side."
stand," another administration offi-
Senate Judiciary Committee
in digging up information that Sen.
ter's degrees in Chinese studies from
the novel, "The Exorcist," according
Justice Department officials and
cial said. Barr, 41, would be the
Chairman Joseph R. Biden Jr. (D-
Orrin G. Hatch (R-Utah) used at the
Columbia University and worked at
to congressional aides.
Barr's former colleagues praised him
Del.) pledged "fair and thorough
hearing to suggest that Hill fabri-
the Central Intelligence Agency
youngest attorney general since
In addition, Barr could face ques-
yesterday as personable and concilia-
hearings" for Barr. Committee Dem-
cated her testimony.
tions about the legal opinions he
monitoring Chinese radio broadcasts.
Ramsey Clark in 1967.
tory. He became deputy attorney
ocrats, embittered by committee
Justice Department attorneys
wrote that sanctioned the assign-
He attended night classes at George
Bush called Barr "a thorough pro-
general last year when Thornburgh
Republicans' treatment of Anita F.
used a computer search to find a fed-
ment of U.S. military forces to law
Washington University Law School,
was being criticized on Capitol Hill
fessional, a defender of individual
Hill, who alleged Thomas sexually
eral court decision that mentioned
enforcement operations overseas,
graduating second in his class.
and in the Justice Department as iso-
rights and a person absolutely com-
harassed her, could question Barr
"Long Dong Silver" and recalled a
used by the administration in plan-
lated and unresponsive. Barr took
Staff writer Ann Devroy contributed
mitted to this fight against crime."
about the Justice Department's role
reference to pubic hair in a drink in
ning the December 1989 invasion of
over the day-to-day operations and
to this report.
10/17/91
Youthful acting deputy named to head Justice
By Frank J. Murray
225/120/6
George Washington University,
eign leaders and abduction of offi-
achievement of the values of the
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
where he graduated in 1977 second
WILLIAM P. BARR
cials and others abroad who are
U.N. charter."
in a class of 297.
Assistant generalt
drug traffickers or terrorists in re-
Mr. Barr also aroused Senate Ju-
President Bush chose William P.
He has told associates he studied
sponse to actual or threatened at-
diciary Committee member Arlen
Barr yesterday to be his attorney
law while working as a CIA Sinolo-
Born: May 23, 1950, n:New-York City
tack.
Specter, Pennsylvania Republican,
general, capping the meteoric rise
gist because "there's not much of a
Family: Wife: Christine, and three children: Mary,
During hearings on the 1989 ab-
by refusing to appoint independent
of a legal whirlwind who stirred
secondary market for people who
Patricia and Margaret
duction policy, Mr. Sofaer agreed
counsel in a case involving persons
storms in Congress over policies he
counted rivets in Chinese tanks."
Education: Bachelor's degree, Columbia University,
with Mr. Barr that the president
close to Mr. Thornburgh. They were
drafted on overseas abduction and
The lifelong Republican helped
1971. Master's degree, Columbia University, 1973.
could Vignore international law and
indicted anyway after a probe Mr.
assassination.
screen vice presidential possibili-
Law degree, George Washington University, 1977.
seize such people as Panamanian
Barr called "thorough, professional
"I have chosen an individual who
ties and defended the choice of Dan
Career highlights: officer, CIA, 1973-77
President Manuel Antonio Noriega
and fair."
is a thorough professional, a de-
Quayle in the 1988 campaign. He vol-
Associate, law firm of Shaw, Pittman, Potts and
without the consent of other nations,
Mr. Barr himself was not giving
fender of individual rights and a per-
unteered to work with General
Trowbridge, 1978-82 and-1983-84; partner. 1985-89.
but warned of major diplomatic and
interviews yesterday, reserving his
son absolutely committed to this
Counsel Boyden Gray during the
Deputy assistant director, for the White House
political risks; Rep: Don Edwards,
fight against crime," Mr. Bush said
domestic policy staff, 1982-83. Assistant attorney
opinions for the Senate confirmation
transition and advised the Deputies
California Democrat and chairman
in nominating the acting attorney
general, Office of Legal Counsel, U.S. Justice
hearings. His wife, Christine, is a
Committee during international cri-
of the House Judiciary subcommit-
Department, 1989-present.
school librarian. They have three
general five months after an-
ses. It was in that capacity that he
tee hearing the testimony, said Iran
children and live in Falls Church.
nouncing that Dick Thornburgh
drafted the legal justification for the
Source: Who's Who in America. 1991
cited the Justice Department opin-
would quit to run for the Senate.
Panama invasion in 1989.
The Washington Times
ion to claim the right to kidnap fugi-
Mr. Thornburgh was traveling
Mr. Bush reportedly decided on
"He is a known quantity with a
as Mr. Thornburgh's legal counsel,
Mr. Barr has been credited with
tives within the United States.
and unavailable for comment, but
the choice weeks ago but held off
team in place at Justice, has a lot of
his deputy in a 1990 shakeup and
streamlining the Justice Depart-
"All these things would pass mus-
department spokesman Dan Era-
telling Mr. Barr and placing another
support in the department, has a
acting attorney general.
ter under domestic law but under
mian said the former attorney gen-
ment and formulating equally bold
key official on the Senate Judiciary
good reputation on Capitol Hill and
His star rose sharply at the White
legal policies affecting the most co-
international law they would be a ca-
eral was pleased.
Committee agenda until the Cla-
a lot of strong relationships within
House after he ordered a bold pre-
vert and sensitive government ac-
tastrophe for the president himself,"
"I know the attorney general be-
rence Thomas matter was closed,
the law enforcement community in-
dawn raid to end a prison uprising at
tions.
Mr. Sofaer said in a telephone inter-
lieves Bill did an excellent job as
White House Press Secretary Mar-
cluding state and local prosecutors,"
Talladega Federal Correctional In-
"Even though he's relatively
view from Palo Alto, where he is
deputy attorney general and feels he
lin Fitzwater said.
said a senior administration official
stitute in Alabama in August, when
young, he's extremely experienced,"
teaching at Hoover Institute.
will be a strong and effective leader
Mr. Barr, 41, is widely considered
familiar with the president's view of
121 Cuban detainees held nine hos-
said former State Department legal
He called Mr. Barr "a strong sup-
at the Department of Justice," Mr.
a brilliant workaholic. He began his
Mr. Barr.
tages for 10 days. The four-minute
counsel Abraham Sofaer, 53. He col-
porter of the notion that we as a
Eramian said.
career as a CIA specialist on China
In the 30 months since April 1989
raid surprised the inmates and re-
laborated with Mr. Barr in writing
country should not permit the use of
Jerry Seper contributed to this
while attending night law school at
Mr. Barr has been a lawyer's lawyer
sulted in release of the hostages.
policies on the assassination of for-
international law to undercut
report.
WALL ST.J. 10/17/91
Bush Picks Barr
For Attorney
General Post
Nominee, With Intelligence
Background, Is Regarded
rights, and a person absolutely committed
Asa Tough Conservative
to this fight against crime." At the White
House and inside the Justice Department,
225/120 712 By PAUL M. BARRETT
76
Mr. Barr has received credit for improving
management at the agency, since taking
Staff Reporter of THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
control of day-to-day affairs 16 months
WASHINGTON-President Bush nomi-
ago.
nated as attorney general William Barr, a
If confirmed, Mr. Barr would take over
self-deprecating conservative with experi-
a department under fire for allegedly fail-
ence in intelligence matters and a reputa-
ing to pursue the Bank of Credit & Com-
tion for hard-nosed dealings with Con-
merce International scandal aggressively.
gress.
Department officials also are worrying
Mr. Barr, who has served as acting at-
about how to respond to indications of
torney general since Dick Thornburgh quit
widespread fraud in the insurance and pen-
the job in August to run for the U.S. Senate
sion industries.
from Pennsylvania, represents a choice by
Mr. Barr began his Washington career
the president of competence and continuity
as a legislative staff member at the Cen-
over political stature.
tral Intelligence Agency in the mid-1970s,
Mr. Barr, a veteran of the Reagan ad-
when George Bush headed the CIA. During
ministration with strong personal ties to
a period of turmoil and congressional criti-
the Bush camp as
cism of the agency, Mr. Barr prepared tes-
well, is almost un-
timony for Mr. Bush and accompanied him
known outside of the
to Capitol Hill on several occasions. The
capital. Yet he was
two also share an interest in China; Mr.
picked over several
Bush was ambassador to the country and
other candidates
Mr. Barr earned bachelor's and master's
with national politi-
degrees in Chinese studies from Columbia
cal standing. At 41
University. After Mr. Barr completed his
years of age, he is
law degree by taking night classes, Mr.
relatively young for
Bush recommended him for a prestigious
the country's top
federal court clerkship.
law enforcement
Mr. Barr went to work in 1982 for the
post.
Reagan administration's policy-develop-
The nomination
ment office and became friendly with Boy-
requires confirma-
William Barr
den Gray, counsel to then Vice President
tion by the Senate,
George Bush. Mr. Gray, who is now White
which isn't expected to put up much oppo-
House counsel, supported Mr. Barr for the
sition, especially after the grueling battle
attorney general's job. Mr. Bush decided
over Clarence Thomas's Supreme Court
on Mr. Barr several weeks ago but kept
appointment. Mr. Barr, who typically
the choice secretantil the Thomas confir-
wears a rumpled suit to the office and
mation had been completed. according to
plays the bagpipes for relaxation, declined
administration officials.
to comment, other than to admit it had
Mr. Barr returned to private law prac-
been "quite a day."
tice in the mid-1980s, but quit his partner-
Washington conservatives celebrated
ship in a big Washington firm to work for
the selection, which President Bush an-
the 1988 Bush campaign and then the presi-
nounced at the White House, catching Mr.
dent's transition team. He was named an
Barr and other administration aides. by
assistant attorney general in 1989.
surprise. "Once in a while, it happens that
Mr. Barr wrote a series of secret legal
someone advances without a public rela-
opinions justifying the December 1989 U.S.
tions army," said Michael Uhlmann, Mr.
invasion of Panama and the arrest by U.S.
Barr's former boss in the Reagan White
forces of Manuel Noriega. A strong propo-
House. "Bill is someone who through fortu-
nent of executive-branch prerogatives, he
itous circumstances was thrust into posi-
also battled with Democratic lawmakers
tions of responsibility and proved his
over a separate opinion broadening the
merit."
Federal Bureau of Investigation's author-
In August, Mr. Barr personally super-
ity to snatch terrorists abroad, without
vised the dramatic rescue of nine hostages
seeking the permission of foreign govern-
held in a federal prison in Alabama by Cu-
ments.
ban detainees trying to avoid deportation
As Mr. Thornburgh suffered a series of
to their homeland. President Bush went
embarrassing political setbacks, some at-
out of his way to praise Mr. Barr's order-
tributable to his longtime personal staff
ing a risky pre-dawn raid on the prison by
from Pennsylvania, he turned increasingly
hundreds of federal agents. Privately, the
to Mr. Barr for help on management prob-
president complimented Mr. Barr for not
lems and eventually promoted him to dep-
"grandstanding" about the rescue, accord-
uty attorney general.
ing to administration officials.
At yesterday's White House announce-
Other, more politically prominent peo-
ment, Mr. Bush said his nominee had been-
ple who had been considered for the attor-
"tested by fire" during the prison uprising.
ney general's job included Missouri Gov.
The president called Mr. Barr "a thorough
John Ashcroft and former California Gov.
professional, a defender of individual
George Deukmejian.
-John Harwood contributed to this arti-
cle.
N.Y. TIMES 10/17/91
Attorney General Pick With a Low-Key Style
225/120
William Pelham Barr
By DAVID JOHNSTON
group was fighting an order by Federal
House, other executive branch depart-
Special to The New York Times
District Judge Patrick F. Kelly re-
ments and the Attorney General. It was
WASHINGTON, Oct. - William P.
stricting demonstrations at abortion
in this role that Mr. Barr broke into Mr.
Barr, President Bush's nominee as At-
clinics in the city.
Thornburgh's Inner circle of advisers.
torney General, is a bagpipe-player,
Department officials insist that the
That circle had previously been domi-
China scholar and one-time employee
motion was not an effort to take a stand
nated by a handful of close aides who
at the Central Intelligence Agency who
on behalf of the demonstrators but a
had served with Mr. Thornburgh when
got his law degree in night school and
restatement of a departmental legal
he was Governor of Pennsylvania.
has never prosecuted a
position that the Federal courts lack
Not long after Mr. Barr took over as
Man
criminal case in court.
jurisdiction in such cases. They said
the department's No. 2 official in mid
in the
He has served as Acting
the move was mainly in response to
1990, he said he hoped to apply the law.
Attorney General since
Judge Kelly's highly detailed instruc-
with fairness and integrity, but he add-
News
Dick Thornburgh left two
tions to Federal marshals who were
ed a cautionary note. 'Apart from that,
months ago to run for the
brought in to keep the clinics open.
my main goal is to survive," he said.
Senate in Pennsylvania, and his affa-
Mr. Barr has also assumed a role in
"This is a tough job. There are mine
ble, unpretentious style at the Depart-
a long-running dispute with a House
fields every day, and I just hope I can
ment of Justice has been an antidote to
Judiciary subcommittee. over a 1989
get through the day without stepping on
the aloof and sometimes imperious ap-
legal opinion that concluded that Unit-
one."
proach of Mr. Thornburgh.
ed States law allows F.B.I. agents to
Mr. Barr's most difficult test so far
arrest people charged with crimes in
came just three days into his tenure as
this country and who have fled over-
the department's top official, when Cu-
seas without obtaining the permission
ban inmates at the Talladega Federal
of the country involved.
Correctional Institution in Alabama
An Early Showdown
seized 10 hostages in an effort to avoid
being returned to Havana.
The efforts by the panel, the Judicia-
ry Subcommittee on Economic and
Trial by Fire
Commercial Law, to obtain the opinion,
The incident thrust Mr. Barr into-a
which was written by Mr. Barr, nearly
tense drama in which he was forced to
provoked a showdown on the Constitu-
make a difficult choice between equal-
tion this summer. The two sides even-
ly dangerous alternatives. He decided
tually agreed to negotiate a compro-
early that the Government could not
mise that would provide lawmakers
agree to the inmates' demands for
with limited access to the document.
freedom, but he became increasingly
William Pelham Barr was reared in
fearful that the lives of the hostages
New York City, the son of an educator
were at risk in the hands of the in-
who was once dean of the Columbia
mates, who included a number of vio-
University engineering school. He is
lent offenders.
married and lives in suburban Virginia
It was Mr. Barr who ordered the
with his wife, Christine, a school librar-
Federal Bureau of Investigation's Hos-
ian, and their three children.
tage Rescue Team to storm the cell
After graduating in 1973 from Co-
block where the hostages were held in
lumbia University with a master's de-
a pre-dawn assault, armed with high-
gree in Chinese studies, Mr. Barr
powered weapons and grenades de-
worked at the C.I.A. and completed
signed to stun but not injure anyone.
George Washington University law
hostages were rescued unharmed
school at night. He first entered private
and no shots were fired.
practice in 1978, mainly in civil law and
Mr. Barr, who is 41 years old, has a
Federal administrative matters.
solid conservative track record, work-
ing mainly behind the scenes to ad-
Mr. Barr landed on the fast track
vance the Bush Administration's main
when he took a job in 1982 as a lawyer
law-enforcement programs, including
for the Domestic Policy Council in the
its crime bill and its proposals to at-
Ronald Reagan White House. It was
tack savings and loan fraud.
there that he met allies who have
Less clear are Mr. Barr's views on
helped him since then, including C.
other matters in which the department
Boyden Gray, who was counsel to Mr.
plays a role, including civil rights and
Bush when he was Vice President.
abortion. But Mr. Barr agreed with the
After Mr. Bush's election as Presi-
department's decision to file a motion
dent, Mr. Barr joined the department
in Federal court in Wichita, Kan., last
as Assistant Attorney General in
August that was widely perceived as
charge of the Office of Legal Counsel,
siding with an anti-abortion group. The
which provides advice to the White
Bank Inquiry Widened, Justice Dept. Nominee Says
11/14/91
225/120/165
By DAVID JOHNSTON
Special to The New York Times
bring: all open mind to the enforce-
Mr. Barr, continued his resolute de
Mr. Barr's contu mation hear Ings
ended after today's session, and a vote
Hearings on
ment of the fundamental right of pri-
fense of the department's perform
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 - William
P. Barr, President Bush's nominee to
by the committee could come by the
end of the week in an effort to have a
Bush's choice for
vacy, including a woman's right to
ance, saying the agreement was "an
choose," she said in a letter to Senators
excellent deal for the Government,"
be Attorney General, said at his confir-
on the committee. "For this reason I
that resolved a case with a penalty that.
mation hearings today that the Justice
full Senate vote before Thanksgiving.
Attorney General
urge you to reject this nominee."
was three times higher than had ever
Department's investigation of the
Few Openings Found
been paid by any American financial
Bank of Credit and Commerce Interna-
Special Counsel Named
The hearings came as a tepid coun-
end quietly.
institution in a criminal case.
tional had expanded to six American
terpoint to the brutal hearings on Clar-
Mr. Barr also told the Senators that
cities from four.
ence Thomas's nomination to the Su-
he had named recently retired Judge
Until today, the Justice Department
preme Court and the protracted exami-
Nicholas J. Bua of Federal District
said its inquiry into B.C.C.I. was under
nation of Robert M. Gates's qualifica-
Court in Chicago as a special counsel to
way in Atlanta, Miami|| Tampa and
tions to head the Central Intelligence
day's session, as they did on Tuesday
conduct a "top-to-bottom review" of
Washington. In response to questions in
Agency. Senators on the committee
when the hearing opened. But Mr. Barr
the long running dispute between the
the second day of hearings by the Sen-
showed little interest in aggressively
also addressed several other issues
Justice Department and Inslaw Inc, a
ate Judiciary Committee, Mr. Barr
said the investigation had widened to
questioning Mr. Barr, a 41-year-old ca-
raised by committee members.
computer company that accused the
include two other cities.
reer lawyer, whose three years of expe-
Opposes Roe V. Wade
department of stealing its software de-
rience at the Justice Department pro-
signed to help prosecutors keep track
Mr. Barr did not identify the other
Mr. Barr said he disagreed with Roe
vided few openings for a concerted
of cases.
cities, but other Justice Department
V. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court deci-
attack.
Mr. Barr insisted at the hearing that
officials told reporters during a break
sion that established a constitutional
Following former Attorney General
he was "not aware of any impropriety
in the hearing that Los Angeles was
right to abortion. "I don't believe a
Dick Thornburgh, whose icy disdain for
having ever been established" in the
one of them.
right to privacy extends to abortion,"
the committee was recalled by several
Inslaw case.
said Mr. Barr, adding that "Roe versus
Loans to a Politician
Senators at the hearings, Mr. Barr
William Hamilton, who owned the
Wade was wrongly decided" and
The investigation in Los Angeles in-
seemed to disarm the panel by his
company, said today that the appoint-
"should be overruled."
volves Independence Bank of Encino,
promises to consult with senators on
ment was "an important step in the
Senator Joseph R. Biden Jr., a Demo-
their pet proposals and reconsider
right direction," but he insisted that an
an institution that was secretly ac-
crat of Delaware and chairman of the
ideas that languished under Mr. Thorn-
independent prosecutor should be
quired by B.C.C.I. in 1985, law enforce-
committee, said he was "astounded"
ment officials said. Federal regulators
burgh.
named in the case.
by Mr. Barr's direct response to his
have ordered the Luxembourg-based
Questions from Democrats and Re-
question on the subject, although both
B.C.C.I. Agreement Criticized
bank to divest its interest in Independ-
publicans about the department's slow
former Attorney General Dick Thorn-
At today's hearing, Senators again
ence.
response to accusations of criminal
burgh and Edwin Meese 3d also es-
criticized the Justice Department's
The Los Angeles Times reported Sat-
wrongdoing at B.C.C.I. dominated to-
poused similar views on abortion as
only successful prosecution against the
urday that Federal investigators had
Attorney General..
B.C.C.I., a case in Tampa, Fla., that in
recently focused on $26 million in loans
Mr. Barr's responses brought an im-
early 1990 resulted In the conviction of
from the bank to State Senator Alan
mediate reaction from abortion rights
five bank executives and an agreement
Robbins. The newspaper quoted the
advocates Kate Michelman, executive
in which a subsidiary of the bank for-
chairman of the bank as saying that
director of the National Abortion
feited $15 million.
the bank extended unsecured loans to
Rights Action League, urged senators
Senator Howard Metzenbaum, Dem-
Mr. Robbins without the customary
to oppose Mr. Barr's nomination.
ocrat of Ohio, said the deal "gave away
financial review.
"I do not believe that Mr. Barr
far too much for far too little."
Mr. Robbins, a lawyer and real es-
tate broker, has not been charged with
any wrongdoing and denied that he had
received any special consideration
from the bank.
WASH. TIMES 11/14/91
Roe should be overturned,
Barr tells Judiciary panel
By Jerry Seper
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
225/120/101
[He] has won praise
Barr, 41, as attorney generalon Oct
16 to succeed Dick Thornburgh He
from Democrats and
has won praise from Democrats and
Attorney General-designate Wil-
Republicans on the committee, and
liam P. Barr, in candid confirmation
testimony before the Senate Judi-
Republicans on the
his confirmation seems assured.
During testimony yesterday, Mr.
ciary Committee, said yesterday
committee.
Barr also reiterated promises he
that the Supreme Court's 1973 de-
made Tuesday that an investigation
cision legalizing abortion nation-
Georgia and by implication over-
of the Bank of Credit and Commerce
wide was "wrongly decided" and
turning restrictive abortion laws in
International was proceeding and
should be overturned.
44 other states.
would result in criminal indict-
Mr. Barr, in his second day of tes-
The 7-2 ruling said women have a
ments.
timony, said abortion and the right of
constitutional right to abortion as
"We have a far-reaching and ag-
privacy were "legitimate issues" for
part of their right to privacy. The
gressive investigation under way of
state legislatures but not for the fed-
decision has been the subject of na-
all allegations that have surfaced,"
eral government.
tional debate ever since.
Mr. Barr said. "I'm confident that as
"There is a right to privacy in the
"The basic issue is whether or not
the evidence sufficient to support an
Constitution. I do not believe the
abortion should be something that is
indictment comes into our posses-
right to privacy extends to abortion,"
decided by society, by the people, the
sion, there will be indictments."
he said. "My views are consistent
extent to which it is permitted, the
Mr. Barr also said he has ordered
with the views that have been taken
extent to which it is regulated." Mr.
an inquiry into allegations that for-
by the [Justice] Department since
Barr said. "Those are legitimate is-
mer Justice Department officials
1983, which is that Roe V. Wade was
sues for state legislatures to deal
conspired to steal a software pro-
wrongly decided and should be over-
with.
gram from Inslaw Inc., a Washing-
ruled."
"Roe V. Wade basically, in my view,
ton computer firm. He said the in-
The court ruled in Roe VS. Wade
foreclosed any kind of role for soci-
quiry will be conducted by retired
that a state may not prevent a woman
ety to place regulations on abortion.
U.S. District Judge Nicholas Bua.
from having an abortion during the
It is the law of the land, and until it's
first six months of pregnancy, invali-
"This case has gone on for many
overruled it remains the law of the
dating abortion laws in Texas and
years with layer after layer of allega-
land."
tions, some of them strange," Mr.
Mr. Barr's candid response to
Barr said in response to a question
questions by Sen. Howard M.
from Sen. Paul Simon, Illinois
Metzenbaum, Ohio Democrat, on
Democrat. "I am not aware of any
constitutional guarantees of privacy
impropriety ever having been estab-
seemed to catch some committee
lished. However, I am interested, as
members by surprise.
this case goes on and on, to get to the
"You've given the first candid an-
bottom of it and bring it to some kind
swer anyone has given on Roe V.
of resolution."
Wade that I can remember in God
Inslaw charged that former At-
knows how many years," said com-
torney General Edwin Meese III and
mittee Chairman Joseph R. Biden
others conspired to steal a software
Jr., Delaware Democrat. "We've be-
program developed by the firm for
come accustomed to the lack of can-
the Justice Department to deliver to
dor, and I appreciate it very much."
a longtime friend. Mr. Meese has de-
President Bush nominated Mr.
nied the allegation.
Administration of Ronald Reagan, 1988 / Aug. 12
ut change. Well, we've
future on a blind date. [Laughter]
And, George, would you step up here for a
steady change-change
After 8 years of working together, we
minute? I figured with the convention
know that George Bush will be a great
coming up in which you will be the stand-
n the American people
President who will continue and expand
ard-bearer and so forth you could probably
n talk, not results, who
what we have built together. I've often said
use that gavel. And if not there, from expe-
they called me and
that George Bush has been the best Vice
rience I can tell you there will be a lot of
se-busters. [Laughter]
President in history, but you can also see
meetings with congressional leadership in
wn who talks and who
that being number two must have been a
which you can use that. [Laughter]
way that America will
new experience for a man who was captain
The Vice President. Thank you very
of the ball team, who started his own busi-
much.
e only two things that
ness, and who piloted his own plane. He's
nderstand: the things
been a great Vice President, but I think
Note: The Vice President spoke at 11:14 a.m.
he things that don't.
George will be an even greater President.
in Room 450 of the Old Executive Office
omy and technology-
So, thank you all, and God bless you all.
Building.
and under us, they
r. But America's basic
I family values-they
Remarks at the Swearing-in Ceremony for Richard L. Thornburgh
can people believe in?
as Attorney General of the United States
wrong, putting crimi-
keeping them there—
August 12, 1988
noting excellence in
g the Pledge of Alle-
The President. Well, as you obviously
never before to stop drug runners from
tradition of peace
know, we're here today to welcome into
smuggling illegal drugs into the United
and upholding the
the Cabinet a man of great ability, Ameri-
States. The results of that work and the
is is also what we be-
ca's 76th Attorney General, Richard Thorn-
work that Attorney General Meese led are
one reason why the
burgh.
incredible-cocaine seizures are up by over
going to vote with us
Dick Thornburgh comes to this post fol-
1,800 percent and over half a billion dollars
by we're going to hold
lowing a career of enormous distinction:
in boats, bank accounts, homes and planes,
George Bush.
U.S. Attorney, Assistant Attorney General,
and other property owned by drug lords
it our record in the
Governor of one of our largest States. Dick
was seized last year alone.
f us can be a force for
Thornburgh has been all these and more.
Today the drug war is international.
L the national debate.
Along the way, he has put mobsters behind
When we took office, only two nations had
d of success is impor-
bars, he has fought for integrity in govern-
drug eradication programs; today 23 do.
the proof that our phi-
ment, and has shown himself to be a leader
And our Justice Department and the Italian
George Bush's policies
under fire. And now, he's taking over a De-
Ministry of Justice have worked together to
ts talk; George Bush
partment of Justice that is building one of
produce an unprecedented number of con-
h is that what we've
the proudest records for fighting crime,
victions against members of organized
beginning; the best is
particularly for fighting drug criminals, in
crime. Our prosecutors also recently won
people elect George
our history.
the conviction of one of the four founders
merica continues the
Here are some facts that speak for them-
of the largest Colombian cocaine cartel,
pólicies of the last 8
selves. Between 1976 and 1980, drug cases
Carlos Lehder. And not long ago, our
e, believe me, will be
brought by the Justice Department fell by
agents arrested another major Latin Ameri-
Nineties.
more than 44 percent. Convictions plunged
can drug kingpin, Juan Ramon Matta. And
ist their vote this year
by nearly 50 percent. Since 1980, Federal
he'll be cooling his heels behind bars for a
: 8 years. But I expect
drug cases brought have almost tripled and
long time to come.
vote for George Bush
convictions have gone up nearly 167 per-
In short, we are team-tackling the drug
r voting for him once
cent. To fight the war against drugs and
rings, hitting them at their heads and at
know that he's their
organized crime, we've hired more than
their feet and everywhere in between.
and prosperity today
4,000 new agents and prosecutors. And
Earlier this week there was an assassina-
hore peace and pros-
under Vice President Bush's leadership,
tion attempt made on the Secretary of
frankly, I don't think
Federal, State, and local law enforcement
State. Initial reports said the attempt was
want to gamble their
officials have been working together as
linked directly or indirectly to the drug
1067
Aug. 12 / Administration of Ronald Reagan, 1988
trade. If these reports are true, this desper-
tinue to join me in urging the Senate to act
reminder of the
ate move is another sign of how badly we're
quickly on our judicial nominees.
society. He obs
hurting the drug trade. We must keep up
And in the meantime, we're grateful to
ance we have 0
and step up the pressure.
have you as our nation's leading crime
the premium
And Dick, you're just the man I want
fighter. I know that you'll continue in your
message for th
taking the helm at the Justice Department
long tradition of serving the public with ex-
My thanks 01
at this critical time. As a prosecutor and as a
cellence, integrity, and distinction. So, Dick
dent. And my t
Governor, you earned a nationwide reputa-
and Ginny, congratulations, and welcome
tion for attacking the drug problem head
aboard.
on and cracking down on drug traffickers.
Attorney General Thornburgh. Mr. Presi-
And you've already indicated that as Attor-
dent, Mr. Vice President, my good friend
Proclamatic
ney General you will again make the war
and distinguished Justice Nino Scalia,
against illegal drugs a top priority.
family, friends, and colleagues, 1 month ago
August 12, 1
But I know that you can't do the job
today, Mr. President, you announced your
alone. The Senate recognized the impor-
intention to nominate me to the high office
By the Presider
tance of your nomination by acting on it
of Attorney General of the United States.
of America
with rare speed, and let me thank the
Senate for its action. The Senators ad-
Today I undertake the duties of that office
A Proclamation
dressed this nomination with businesslike
with pride and with enthusiasm.
As many here know, I have spent much
The people
seriousness. In doing so, they put national
interest above all other interests. And now
of the last year and a half with young
much to our (
it's time for the Senate to recognize, as
people-students, the next generation of
the years who
American leaders. And as you also know,
the achieveme
well, the vital importance of this nation's
judges to our efforts in the drug war. It's
Ginny and I have shared the wonderful ex-
portunity, equ
time to act on the 30 judicial nominations
perience of raising four fine sons of our
mutual respec
that we have submitted but have yet to
own. I have accordingly acquired a special
Americans ha
reach a floor vote. Dick, I know that you
perspective on the priorities you and I
promise of th
share for Federal law enforcement, Mr.
ence is a uni'
mentioned the great need for those judges
at your confirmation hearings. And recently
President. For example, I firmly believe
God has gran
that unless we sustain a vigorous effort to
unalienable R
the judicial conference declared a state of
judicial emergency because of the many
make drug trafficking and drug abuse
Life, Liberty a
nominations that the Senate has hanging.
public enemy number one, we could well
and that our
Our law enforcement people can investi-
stunt significantly the capacity of today's
cans is to guar
gate and bring to court all the drug traffick-
young people to contribute to a better qual-
always.
ers in the world, but without an adequately
ity of life for tomorrow's America.
The protec
staffed judiciary of tough-minded judges,
I accept your challenge as well, Mr. Presi-
champions in
many of them may be back on the streets in
dent, to devote every resource of the De-
years ago this
no time.
partment of Justice, consistent with strict
Luther King,
Some say the Senate is simply playing
observance of the civil rights and civil liber-
ington in th
politics as usual, but this is not politics as
ties of all our citizens, to fight other unique
helped awake
usual. In 1980 only 17 nominations had not
threats to our traditional values and institu-
a strong and
been acted on by the end of the year. And
tions-organized crime and racketeering,
to be genuin
of these, all but five had been nominated
official corruption, and white collar crime-
The annivers
on or after the end of July. Well, some of
as well as to protecting the first civil right
time for all
our nominees have been waiting for a year
of every American, the right to be free
achievements
and a half. For example, Pamela Rymer,
from fear in our homes, on our streets, and
the need for
who has already proven herself to be tough
in our communities. But as you have often
stant effort
against crime as a district court judge, has
noted, Mr. President, government cannot
equality for al
been waiting for Senate approval as an ap-
offer alone the sole solution to these prob-
peals court judge since April, even though
lems. Citizens have obligations too.
she received the ABA's highest rating of
Today I took my oath of office on a Bible
confidence. The Senate's inaction throws a
once belonging to William Penn, the found-
monkeywrench into the wheels of the war
er of my beloved Commonwealth of Penn-
on drugs. And Dick, I know that you'll con-
sylvania. I would commend to all Penn's
1068
Administration of Ronald Reagan, 1988 / Aug. 12
the Senate to act
reminder of the citizens' obligation in a free
you who have joined us for this most fulfill-
ninees.
society. He observed: "Justice is the insur-
ing occasion for me and for my family.
we're grateful to
ance we have on our lives, and obedience is
Thank you very much.
is leading crime
the premium we pay for it." Not a bad
continue in your
message for this great nation even today.
Note: The President spoke at 11:57 a.m. in
he public with ex-
My thanks once again to you, Mr. Presi-
the Roosevelt Room at the White House.
stinction. So, Dick
dent. And my thanks and Godspeed to all of
ns, and welcome
hurgh. Mr. Presi-
my good friend
Proclamation 5846-National Civil Rights Day, 1988
ce Nino Scalia,
August 12, 1988
gues, 1 month ago
1 announced your
to the high office
By the President of the United States
One element of ensuring the promise of
the United States.
of America
equality is effective enforcement of our
uties of that office
civil rights laws. Discrimination and preju-
A Proclamation
dice have no place in American life. The
usiasm.
have spent much
The people of the United States owe
more we continue to eliminate all traces of
half with young
much to our courageous countrymen over
injustice from our land and to foster broth-
the years who have dedicated their lives to
erhood, the more we can truly sing, "from
ext generation of
as you also know,
the achievement of equal rights, equal op-
every mountainside, let freedom ring."
the wonderful ex-
portunity, equal protection of the law, and
The Congress, by House Joint Resolution
fine sons of our
mutual respect and reconciliation. These
140, has designated August 12, 1988, as
Americans have reminded us that the
"National Civil Rights Day" and authorized
acquired a special
promise of the Declaration of Independ-
and requested the President to issue a proc-
orities you and I
enforcement, Mr.
ence is a universal and eternal one-that
lamation in observance of this event.
God has granted everyone alike "certain
Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, Presi-
I firmly believe
vigorous effort to
unalienable Rights,
among these
dent of the United States of America, do
and drug abuse
Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness"
hereby proclaim August 12, 1988, as Na-
ne, we could well
and that our duty and privilege as Ameri-
tional Civil Rights Day. I call upon the
cans is to guard and guarantee this promise
people of the United States to observe this
capacity of today's
ite to a better qual-
always.
day with appropriate programs, ceremonies,
America.
The protection of our rights requires
and activities, including a pause at noon for
a moment of silence in tribute to those who
eas well, Mr. Presi-
champions in every generation. Twenty-five
years ago this month, the Reverend Martin
have given their lives to secure civil rights
esource of the De-
for all Americans.
nsistent with strict
Luther King, Jr., led the March on Wash-
ights and civil liber-
ington in the cause of civil rights and
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set
helped awaken among his fellow Americans
my hand this twelfth day of August, in the
) fight other unique
1 values and institu-
a strong and true sense that justice, if it is
year of our Lord nineteen hundred and
to be genuine, must ever be color-blind.
eighty-eight, and of the Independence of
and racketeering,
the United States of America the two hun-
white collar crime-
The anniversary of this event is a fitting
dred and thirteenth.
the first civil right
time for all Americans to reflect on our
e' right to be free
achievements in this regard and to recall
RONALD REAGAN
on our streets, and
the need for continual vigilance and con-
it as you have often
stant effort in behalf of the promise of
[Filed with the Office of the Federal Regis-
government cannot
equality for all.
ter, 9:18 a.m., August 15, 1988]
ution to these prob-
gations too.
1 of office on a Bible
am Penn, the found-
monwealth of Penn-
mend to all Penn's
1069