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This file includes a series of memos by Leo Thorsness, Callaway's special assistant, assessing congressional support. Many of the memos concern Ronald Reagan.
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Congressional Support (2)
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324359001
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Congressional Support (2)
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This file includes a series of memos by Leo Thorsness, Callaway's special assistant, assessing congressional support. Many of the memos concern Ronald Reagan.
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President Ford Committee Records
Robert Marik's Subject Files
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U.S. Congress. (1789 - )
Presidential campaign, 1976
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The original documents are located in Box B01, folder "Congressional Support (2)" of the
President Ford Committee Campaign Records at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
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domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
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copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
TO: BO
Feb 10, 1976
FM: LEO
RE: CONG JAMES H. QUILLEN, TENN
Hec is solidly with the President.
He is very pragmatic, ie., our first priority is win
According to him, we must win N.H. and we must do whatever is
legitimately necessary to win. If that means the President
has to spend five days there in the next two weeks, do it.
If we don't win the first one not much sense worrying about
the second.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: BRAD HAYS
F.Y.I.
LIBRARY GERALD R. FORM
Bob Mark
AMC
TO: BO
Feb 11, 1976
FM: LEO
RE: CONG MATTHEW RINALDO, N.J.
Cong Rinaldo is very much for the President and very
excited about how badly things are going for the PFC
in N.J.
According to him, a month ago we would have gotten all
22 delegates (not counting the 3 per cong dist) and today
they (state and county Republican party people) are
talking about going 50/50 with the RR folks.
He see absolutely no PFC activity in his district but
a lot of RR organizational effort.
He thinks very highly of Tom Kean, but also thinks that
Tom just doesn't have the time to do the "nuts and bolts"
of the required PFC organizational effort that is needed
to turn this thing around.
Joe Intile (sp) (spc ass't to Rep state chairman, Webster
Todd) says the answer is: Hire Cong Rinaldo's AA, Conover
Spenser, and put him to work full time in the State. Conover
is past Ex. Dir. of the Party in N.J. and according to
Rinaldo, would be the most qualified man to turn it around
for us. Rinaldo also indicated he would allow him to do it.
This was all his idea but he is really sincere about wanting
to help and is very concerned that things are rapidly falling
apart for us in his opinion.
He feels we must begin, and yesteday was a bit late!
He will advocate, surrogate or do whatever he can to help.
He says all three congresspeople from N.J. should be strongly
and publicly backing the President in speeches -- this isn't
happening according to him.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DICK MASTRANGELO
F.Y.I.
ACTION SCHEDULING
LIBRARA GERALD R. OF
MEMORANDUM
February 16, 1976
FROM:
LEO
RE:
ILLINOIS
Spoke at Lincoln Day Dinner in Paxton, Illinois (Ford
County) on February 13, 1976, and the following night at
the Elmhurst Country Club, Wooddale, Illinois - Congressman
John Erlenborn's district.
PAXTON
Filled in for Mel Laird. The event was very successful, well
received - they were impressed. Les Arends followed my
speech "he is a legend in his own time". Approximately
350 people Strong President Ford country for two reasons
1) Les Arends solid support for the President and 2) the
President came into this area when Les Arends retired from Congress.
Also Charlie Hamm - Republican County Chairman extremely
effective, and solidly with President Ford.
WOODDALE, ILLINOIS CANDIDATE NIGHT
Candidates Night sponsored by DuPage Federation of Republicen
Women's Clubs - Mary Walton - President (She is President
of all the women's clubs in the county) She is a strong backer
of Reagan, and this function was by invitation only so it
was solidly a Reagan crowd. A comment that was made to me
by the PFC people in Illinois - Jim Helm said "they hardly
acknowledged the PFC organization. Initially they were going
to play "California Here I Come" as Reagan walked in but
they got it toned down a little bit. Basically the evening
was about 2500 people- nearly all had Reagan buttons-
ladies wearing Reagan hats etc. PFC did get up some big
posters and a few people had Ford Buttons. We got some
material out about five minutes before it started. Reagan
came, spoke and left.
I was introduced by Congressman Erlenborn, spoke about 20
minutes and then Congressman Erlenborn and I left.
It was a tough crowd, a Reagan crowd- the facilities were poor
and the people in the hallway noisy.
It was a RR function, we had no votes going in and I know
we got at least a few coming out so it was worth the effort.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO:
JON
HOLT
F.Y.I.
FORD is DERALO LIBRARY
NHC
TO: BO
Feb 18, '76
STU
FM: LEO
RE: CONG CALDWELL BUTLER, VA.
It's like he said two months ago - we don't have much going for
us in Va. We need organization, we need to get involved in
delegate selection, etc, etc.
He did say that he was surprised at the grass roots strength of
the President but was very concerned that it was SO hard to raise
money and felt that was a bad sign.
Thought the President did a good job last nite on TV.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: BRAD HAYS
F.Y.I.
FORD of LIBRARY 078830
Bob m,
TO: BO
Feb 18, '76
STU
FM: LEO
RE:
CONG JOHN P HAMMERSCHMIDT, ARK
He believes we have "one of the best" in our state PFC political
chairman.
He also believes the democrat we have as our new finance PFC
chairman is a top notch find.
Believes the President has good support andstrength among Ark
Republicans.
He is not publicly for the President, BUT, it is not secret that
he is for the President. The filing date is not till April and
sees no reason to ask for opposition in the Primary.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: BRAD HAYS
JOHN DAVIS
F.Y.I.
GERALD
FORD is LIBRARY
TO:
Bo
Feb 18, 1976
STU
FM: LEO
RE: CONG PAUL FINDLEY.
Cong Findley called to make two points: both relative to RR and Fla.
1. From what President Ford said last nite, RR must have said or
eluded to making social security on a voluntary basis. Paul is
convinced that could kill RR in Fla - use it, that's about half
of what did Goldwater in.
2. Thinks the President could really sweep Fla by saying he will
try to do away with the mandatory retirement age in order to get
the maximum benefits - - which they have already earned and paid
C
for years before.
Fred,
Stu
do in has any research on
what this would cost or whether its
practical
Bo
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ACTION
STU AND FRED SLIGHT
BERALD R. FORD LIBRARY
February 18, 1976
MEMORANDUM
HHC
TO:
BO
STU
FROM:
LEO
RE:
CONGRESSMAN BILL ARMSTRONG, COLORADO
He believes we are starting to go too far in painting
RR as completely out of contact with reality in some,
if not most of RR programs.
His point is this: If we completely alienate that
part of the party the nomination will be meaningless.
He used this example: Think what would have happened if
Rocky. had defeated Goldwater in '64 -- he says with the
split created in the party that Rocky would not have
run any better than Goldwater.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: BOB FLANIGAN
F.Y.I.
GERALO FORD VIBRARY
the
TO: BO
Feb 19, '76
STU
FM: LEO
RE: CONG JOEL PRITCHARD, WASH
(most time was spend with his AA, Herb Stone, and just a couple
minutes with Joel, off the floor)
Joel is going to N.H. tomorrow - Feb 20, in our behalf.
Sees very little PFC grass roots organizational effort in King
County (Seattle). There is quite a bit of RR activity however.
He says the Rep party is in a shamble in Washington. Therefore,
it's nice to have the endorsement of the party office holders, but
it really doesn't mean much.
Both the Congressman and his AA separately made this point: "there
is no real enthusiasm for the President.' " When asked what we, the
PFC organization in D.C. can do about it -- -"nothing, it's got to
be done by the folks in the grass roots area."
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: NOLA HAERLE
F.Y.I.
FORD is LIBRARY 938835
TO: BO
Feb 19, '76
STU
FM: LEO
RE: CONG DON CLAUSEN, CALIF
He is for the President, but a tough position cause many of his
supporters are also RR supporters and help RR in two elections.
Don would like a list of PFC people (organizational title holders)
in his district in Calif - will let us know if good types, best
approach with them, etc.
He says the answer is a President Ford/RR ticket. Don't worry
about if RR is too old 5 yrs now to serve for 8 yrs as President
(if he were Vice President).
The answer is to WIN this time, worry about 4 yrs from now, 4
yrs from now. Reason he gives that a Ford/RR ticket would be
such a winnable ticket is that the President knows and can work
with the congress, and they with him. And RR is an Ex Gov,
knows state government and would know how to preachand implement
decentralization of fed gov't back to states. And, according to
Don, this is what the nation needs.
His biggest concern is that the President and RR don't tear up
each other so that neither can win in November.
I am hearing more and more of this lately. If we create such
a deep split that neither can win in November, we have really lost.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO:
DAVE LIGGETT
ACTION DAVE LIGGETT
GERALD R. LISERAY FORD
TO: BO
Feb 23, '76
STU
FM: LEO
RE: CONG LARRY WINN, JR, KANSAS
This is the report from their "Monday Morning Group," which has
been meeting every Monday morning for last 10 years. (made up
of conservative to moderate congress-people, no liberals)
This morning the question was asked and they went around the
table:
"If the election were held tomorrow, who would win"
Ohio - - - President Ford
Calif - - RR
Tx - - - - President Ford
Kansas - - RR
Idaho - - RR
Arizona- - RR (somewhere between 2 to 1 and 4 to 1)
Colo - - - too close to call
Ill. - - - President Ford
Issue data
The administration has not done anything to help the farmer. Many
farm states that traditionally are Republican and should be in his
cornor are going against him this time. It just plain fact that
they feel the President lied to them. They are still bitter and
things are not getting any better. (This is a unaniomous attitude
from all rural congressman and senators which whom I have spoken.
I personally don't think the adminsitration or this campaign realizes
the significance of this fact.)
Every congressman at their meeting this morning thought it was just
plain stupid and counter productive to critize RR - certainly not in
the image of the President, will turn around and bit him and may
well cost the Rapublicans the White House this fall it it goes on.
(nearly every congressman and senator I talked to in the last 5-7 days
has said this same thing - recommend we give this some rethinking.)
REGUL AR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO:
DAVE OWEN
F.Y.I.
DERALA FORD LIBRARY
NHC
TO:
BO
Feb 19, '76
STU
FM: LEO
RE: CONG DON CLANCY, OHIO
He is solidly with the President.
He does all he can to give the true image of the President
in his speeches in his district. ie., talks about how the
President was one of the most knowledgeable congressman, worked
harder and longer, one of the best 'managers' of legislation
the house has ever had, etc.
He believes the official endorsement by the state Rep party
has had a good effect in that it has filtered down to the
counties, precincts and wards.
However, Buz Luken does have a certain following for the RR
folks in his area.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: JOHN HOLT
F.Y.I.
FORD is GERALD LIBRARY
TO: BO
Feb 23, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG CHARLES MOSHER, OHIO
Solidly for the President.
Feels the organizational people in Ohio are largely for
the President but not as great a percentage are for the
President.
He felt it was a bad mistake that we appointed two such
old folks as our chairmen or honorary chairman. He said:
"I'm 70 and they are much older than I, it will surprise
many people that your chairmen are still alive."
His point was - the people who remember those old folks are
for us anyway - we need some young people out front for us,
as these oldies have no appeal to the independent and swing
Democrat voters - which we need to win that area.
Leo Does he know Keith me Nanara
(a young man) is Chaiman Duiber and
Bolton (old) are honory charmen. B.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: JON HOLT
F.Y.I.
FORD is 038860 LIBRARY
TO: BO
Feb 23, ' 76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG FLOYD SPENCE, S. CAR.
He not taken a position and probably will not before the
nomination. Many of his supporters are RR folks. Also
with the Governor of So Car for RR it is not as uncomfortable
if take no positon.
He is enthusiastic about our PFC political state chairman.
Say he is a good friend and we have a top notch "fella there. "
Privately, reading between the lines, I believe we have
his support.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: BRAD HAYS
F.Y.I.
FORD is LIBRARY QERALD
TO: BO
Feb 24, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG KEITH SEBELIUS, KA
He is privately with the President, but will work hard for
whomever wins the Rep nomination. A lot of RR support in his
area.
He is not going to be a delegate.
Most delegates will be uncommitted from his district.
I got the same pitch about agriculture from him as from
other congressmen and senators from rural America - ie.,
"sold out to Meany." We must do something about it.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE OWEN
F.Y.I.
LIBRARY GERALD : FORD
TO: BO
Mar 1, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SEN JOHN TOWER, TX
Senator Tower thinks the momentum has swung our way and has
no immediate suggestions for doing anything different than
we currently are doing.
He believes if we win Fla we will have "broken RR's back" and
will have the nomination.
He is very satisfied with the delegation and PFC organization in
Tex.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: AL ZAPANTA
F.Y.I.
FORD is LIBRARY
TO: BO
Mar 1, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG CHARLES WIGGINS, CA
Solidly with us, will do whatever he can for the President.
He's convinced that RR must win the big states to get nomination;
ie., won't get nomination at convention saying: Look, I got
40% here, etc."
He says the President can and should win the Calif Primary. The
Republican Primary votes are in Orange County and San. Diego area.
The President should go there but if he can't the person that
can do the most good is Bill Simon.
Cong Wiggins will help set it up, Larrange for good TV coverage,
etc and feels that of all the - cabinet members, Bill Simon is
the one to get there.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE LIGGETT
ACTION SCHEDULING OFFICE
FORD is LIBRARY
Bob
MEMO FOR THE RECORD
Mar 1, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG GILMAN, N.Y. ABOUT FLA.
Ben Gilman called about Mr. Ronald Greenwald, 13 Francis Place,
Monsey, N.Y.
Ron Greenwald is the person responsible for organizing the east
coast for CREEP in getting the Jewish vote out in '72. He is
interested in helping us do the same.
Probably be a volunteer (expenses only - but Ben was not sure
on this).
Ben will send his resume tomorrow but he supposedly could help
us a lot in Fla with the Jewish vote so no time to loose.
Ben asked to be kept informed on this situation.
Ben also is getting more names for us to plug into Bill's
National Advisory Board Program.
Ben also wants to know who to contact if he has some volunteers
that want to go to Fla to help - told him I would get back to him
on this tomorrow - Mar 2.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: BILL ROBERTS - ACTION
BILL LOW
FORD is LIBRARY 07V830
TO: BO
Mar 8, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG CLAIR BURGENER, CA
He is on the PFC advisory board in So Calif.
Has no complaints and thinks we are doing fine.
Hopes we have it won before we get to Calif as RR would probably
win there.
He passes on a rumor to me I will track down; about how the PFC
didn't want any conservatives in the organization.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE LIGGETT
F.Y.I.
FORD LIBRARY
TO: BO
Mar 8 76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG CARLOS MOORHEAD, CALIF
He has not, and will not, formally endorse either candidate.
He is basically for the President however.
He believes the President will get the nomination. (and he hopes
RR will run for the Senate - - but really doesn' t expect that to
happen.)
Believes it is good that RR is running because:
1. Some conservative Democrats have reregistered so they can
support RR - may stick with the Rep party now.
2. Some "Nixon dropouts" are returning to support RR.
He gave me the following "negatives" he has picked up about the
President in his district:
1. Republican women are still mad about Betty Ford's attitude
toward sex and drugs.
2. The "wishy-washy" image of the President is still there.
3. People Perceive the President as a follower instead of a leader.
Today was the first time I've heard about this following point and
it may bear looking into:
He told me that this morning the Republican Policy Committee
voted unanimously to oppose the "Antitrust Parens Patriae
Act." It has something to do with state Attorneys General
being able to bring a class action suit for consumers. He
said it is not a Republican philosophical position yet the
administration is supposedly for it.
He made the point the President has initially come out on
the wrong side of several bills or issues and had to change
later which has given him this wishy-washy image. This new
Parens Patriae Act may be another case in being on the wrong
side.
Ful, 1.S.I
is
FORD
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
GERALD
&
FORD
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE LIGGETT
FRED SLIGHT
LIBRARY
F.Y.I.
R.Marik
TO: BO
Mar 8, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG BURT TALCOTT, CA
Thinks we are doing fine - continue whatever we are doing.
However, if we haven't won nomination by the time we get to
California primary, "we have troubs."
Don't criticizeRR, especially in Calif. He is the "hometown boy"
and it would be counter productive to criticizeespecially there.
He thinks the stumbling-bumbling issue, although dying, helps us.
National defense is big in Calif so the President should be well
versed on that issue, it's impact, jobs it furnishes, etc when
he is in Calif.
the
Two issues for the President to avoid in Calif, if possible.
1. nuclear moratorium: which will be on the Calif. Primary.
7.4.I.
2. 200 mile fishing limit.
(on the 200 mile issue: Fish don't read milage signs. If the
President must address this issue, give a sophisticated response
and address all resources of the sea and don't just give some
simple cliches.)
(as he is a former aviator and POW, I assume his judgement is
absolutely correct on any subject he cares to give an opinion.)
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO:
DAVE LIGGETT
FRED SLIGHT
F.Y.I.
FORD is LIBRARY
TO: BO
Mar 8, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG JOE SKUBITZ, KA
He is for the President.
He does an excellent job of speaking but for the President
every chance he gets.
Does not see much PFC activity in his area.
The President is still in trouble with the wheat farmers over the
embargo.
He feels the answer is: "lots of rain and a good export market. "
On common situs, he feels the President did the right thing for
the right reason.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE OWEN
F.Y.I.
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
Bob marik
TO: BO
Mar 8, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG JOHN McCOLLISTER, NEBR
Recent survey taken by Omaha World Herald shows the President
leading RR by about a 5 to 3 ratio - an improvement since the
previous survey, which was taken before the N.H. Primary.
In the western part of Nebr the wheat farmers are still just
plain bitter-- and they are not getting over it.
John's legitimate concern is that if they are still mad come
November and don't turn out to vote for the President, they
won't be at the polls to vote for him either!
He feels the President can recover with them by putting together
a good positive export grain package.
John feels very strongly about this export package solution. The
more he talked about it the more I realized he has given it a lot
eagerly accepted and will do it.
this ifnAlus, Read the by someone but sect
Wesnget
&
of thoughtso I finally asked him to put his thoughts on paper and
send them over, although I had no way to assure him I could ever
get his recommendations in the hands of the President. He
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE OWEN
F.Y.I.
FORD is LIBRARY
TO: BO
Mar 9, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG GUY VANDER JAGT MICH.
At the leadership meeting this week the President mentioned to
Guy and Senator Ted Stevens that he would be more than happy
to talk to house and senate candidates as he travels around
the nation.
This is not to be "pep-talks" but to get the fence sitters on
our side and to serve as a shot in the arm for their candidacy.
The President, House and Senate Campaign Committees agree it is
a good idea, it's just that we don't have the mechanism to do
it.
It would certainly be a plus for the candidates, and we surely
need to elect as many Republicans as we can, and it may be a
plus for us as the House and Senate Campaign committee get
input we don't and this can be passed on to the President
before going into the specific area.
Suggest we get our scheduling people, Rog Mortons office
and the White House scheduler to work out the mechanism on how
each group can get the word as soon as possible of the President's
travels so the meeting can be set up.
-1.S.I
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ACTION R.E.M. - F.Y.I.
GERAZO s. FORD LIBRARY
TO: BO
Mar 9, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG ELWOOD HILLIS, IND
He is on the PFC Ind Committee.
Is very impressed with our PFC state Chairman, Don Cox.
Suggests we keep excellent rapport with RNC.
Thinks we are doing things right now and just keep it up.
(sure is fun to talk to these men now after we have a few
wins under our belt - 4 weeks ago we were hardly doing anything
correct.)
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: JON HOLT
F.Y.I.
FORDO & LIBRARY QERALD
TO: BO
Mar 9, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG DEL CLAWSON, CALIF
Keep doing what we are doing.
Democrats say we will win Fla. and Republicans say they hope
we will win there.
Right now it's a "toss-up" in Calif but by primary time there
we will have things going our way there also.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE LIGGETT
F.Y.I.
UNO
GERALO
LIBRARY
TO: BO
Mar 9, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG JOHN MYERS, IND
(Missed appt with him so talked to his AA, Ron Hardman)
He is for the President.
Hopes it will be all over for RR after Fla.
There is quite a bit of RR support in his dist but has not seen
much RR or PFC activity there.
Seems to be good cooperation between PFC and the congressman
and knows of no problems.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: JON HOLT
F.Y.I.
Faro is LIBRARY 038870
TO: BO
Mar 9, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG MANUEL LUJAN N.M.
Since he and Sen Domenici have taken the leadership we have
gone from aforecast of 5 or 6 delegates to all 21 delegates!
He would like for us to see if we can get a 10-15 minute
meeting scheduled (that was cancelled or turned down by the
White House) between the President and Sen Domenici and him.
Has to do with a VA hospital in Albuquerque.
He is very enthusiastic about the nomination and feels it
will no longer be a race when it get to N.M.
Bo
Apperes
X
them to REM for Actis
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: AL ZAPANTA
ACTION:
MR. CALLAWAY
APPROVE
DISAPPROVE
SCHEDULING
FORD is LIBRARY 0ERVLD
Bob Marik
TO: BO
Mar 9, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SEN. BARRY GOLDWATER, AZ
Senator Goldwater believes President Ford will win; but the Senator
feels he could and should win big.
He feels very strongly about some of his suggestions and
seems rather disgusted that he can't get the President to
accept them.
He feels the "only issue" RR has is foreign policy. He
has suggested to the President and to Sec Kissinger that the
President should go on TV, with maps, and show the American
people where the trouble spots (for us) are in the world and
tell the people what we are or or are trying to do about them.
He feels this kind of openness will really help the President
and that the people deserve it. He says he is tired of asking
and suggesting and has "washed his hands" of it.
REGULAR DISTRIBUTION
ADDITIONAL COPY TO: AL ZAPANTA
F.Y.I.
3 mp rybe LIBRARY
TO: BO
Mar 10, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG DELBERT LATTA, OHIO
He is now supporting the President.
Says there is some resentment in his district because people
selected for the PFC organization are "the same old ones used
by CREP, and it leaves a bad taste in people's mouths.
He indicated he too felt, to a degree this way. He indicated
Keith McNamara was of this same group and perhaps it would have
been better not to have the state chairman a past CREP person.
I asked if he had approved of the appointment of Keith and
he said he didn't remember. (I checked our records and it was
me who called Latta's office for clearance. I check with that
person and she remembers my calling to get his clearance. I was
kind enough to remind her to mention that to her boss.)
He also says we appoint folks to the PFC organization and then
give them nothing to do - - case in point is Mr. Tom O'Niel of
Wauseon, Ohio. In talking to Keith about this yesterday PM, he
said Tom was asked if he would lend his name to a list supporting
the President and when he agreed to the understanding it was not
a job that required any "doing."
The congressmen didn't think it should have taken SO long since
he "told" the President and James Lynn about how the farm estate
tax limit should be raised, until the President put it in his
speech (took about 2 months.)
He feels the ag. problem is the one major problem the President
now has.
Thinks the President's economic program is "right on the money. "
He is also happy that the President is now meeting with groups
of congressmen to get their political input--although he believes
the President should do it more often.
(I talked to Keith about this report so he is aware of it. It
was not too long ago that it was front page news in Ohio that
Cong Latta said he was not sure if he was going to support the
President or not SO Keith is not too concerned about this
relative criticism.)
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: JON HOLT
F.Y.I.
GERALD
LISRARY
mp
TO: BO
Mar 10, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG ED HUTCHINSON, MICH
He is offcourse, fully supporting the President.
Thinks the President would have great troubles with HHH in Nov
in Mich.
Thinks is good that the President is concerned about the
entire congress winning this time instead of just the President
like they did in '72.
Was pleased with the meeting last nite between the President and
the 20 or so congressmen.
-
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: JON HOLT
F.V.I.
FORD is 07V830 LIBRARY
TO: BO
Mar 11, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG GARY BROWN, MI
Congressman Brown is completely for the President and has the
opportunity to give his input directly to the President.
This was a protocal visit.
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F.Y.I.
FORD = 07VN00 LIBRARY
I
TO: BO
Mar 11, ' 76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG JOHN ROUSSELOT, CA
Has not, and will not, take a position relative President Ford
and RR, -- both sides have asked him to be a delegate, - --won't.
Has good rapport with the President and PFC, knows Stu well.
Seemed happy that we have someone being liaison with elected
types.
He has and will continue to help the President.
Thinks both sides in Calif are doing a good job at not hitting
each other too hard.
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE LIGGETT
F.Y.I.
GERALD B FOND LIBERTY
TO: BO
Mar 11, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG SHIRLEY PETTIS, CA
She came out early for the President.
And she has gotten
only "bad press" back home, because
of it. She really hopes her early endorsement helps the
President as it cost her some.
According to her, Joel Pritchard of Washington, has constructed
an outstanding letter, which he is going to send to the 3,000
delegates in Washington. She suggested we get a copy and per-
haps mail it to selected people. (I have contacted Pritchard's
office and a copy is being sent post haste)
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE LIGGETT
NOLA HAERLE
lietu Gel caps 8 from feo
F.Y.I.
LIBRARY GERALD ? FORD
TO: BO
Mar 11, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG CLARENCE MILLER, OHIO
He is very much for the President.
For legitimate reasons he is not going to be a delegate but
this does not lessen his support. Indicated he will "make up
for it" in other ways. He discussed those reasons with me.
Says his district is traditionally a swing district and he
is convinced he will help us carry it.
Wants us to use our influence with RNC to make sure they
follow through on his ideas that he discussed with them last
week: List all 435 congressmen on a chart indicating the cost
of all the legislation they voted for, and how much over the
budget that amount is.
He is convinced we (Republicans) can't loose. Even if every
congressman voted "excessively" and all were turned out we would
end up next year with a 2 - 1 majority (every Rep is defeated
by a Democrat and visa-versa.)
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F.Y.I.
GERALD ? OF
TO: STU
Mar 16, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG CHALMERS P WYLIE, OHIO
Solidly for the President was one of the "early ones. "
Was he who suggested that congressmen be delegates, which he will be.
President Ford will win easily in his district, and should have
no problems in Ohio.
He does a good job of advocating for the President.
Has asked Vern Loen of the White House to get a signing ceremony
with the President on the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the
Truth in Lending Bill. The Consumer Federation of America, (an
AFL/CIO front organization) has taken after Cong Wylie and he
thinks this will be a big help. He sponsored, or co-sponsored
them. (talked to Vern Loen, he is on top of it.)
He hopes the President will not forget to come to Ohio, he reminded
me there is another election after the primary--called a General.
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F.Y.I.
is
GERALD
FORD
LIBRARY
TO: STU
Mar 16, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG J. Kenneth Robinson, Va.
Has not publicly taken a position.
Says most of the activity in his district is by the RR types.
Says he has to be "very careful," down there, with "all that
RR activity."
He is satisfied with Stan Parris and Craigie to be co-PFC
State Chairmen.
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: BRAD HAYS
CLIFF HUMPHREY
F.Y.I.
GERALD
FORD
TO: STU
Mar 18, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR J. GLENN BEALL, MD.
Solidly for the President.
Like to have input when we replace state senator Newton
Steers, Jr., as our PFC state political chairman.
Seemed pleased we have someone "making the rounds" calling
on them asking for their input, complaints, etc.
Keep doing what we are doing.
Don't alienate the RR people, will need them in Nov.
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: PEGGY SEGAR (hold for Maryland Field Man)
F.Y.I.
a
GERALD
0803
TO: STU
Mar 18, ' 76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR CARL CURTIS, NEBR
He announced his solid support for the President the weekend
before the Fla Primary.
Says RR has done a very big favor for the President. It has
made him prove he can get votes outside "Grand Rapids. " RR
has given the President a national base.
Senator Curtis feels very strongly that we "not chill the RR
people.' He says there is no way that RR can get the nomination
away from the President. Therefore, we should not be putting
pressure on RR to quit and that Rog Morton should be putting
out releases saying it's good that RR is helping Republicans
air the issues, etc. The point he made several times is we ve
got to have the RR support to win the general election.
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: DAVE OWEN
F.Y.I.
as
GERALD
FORD
LIBRARY
TO: STU
Mar 18, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR BILL BROCK, TENN
Still very much for the President.
Keep doing what we are doing -"all going our way now."
Don't alienate RR camp - must have them this fall.
RR has done us a big favor by running.
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: BRAD HAYS
F.Y.I.
a.
GERALD
FORM
ADDRESS
TO: STU
Mar 18, ' 76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR JAKE GARN, UTAH
According to Jake, and those he has discussed it with recently,
we are pushing RR too hard to quit the race.
He agrees that it would be great now if RR quits but if we
alienate the RR supporters we will lose in the fall. Therefore,
we should do whatever we must do, to "stroke" the RR faction
and give them a "nice way out" so they get off their hands in
November.
This is a common theme from nearly everyone on the hill (with
whom I have spoken in the last week to 10 days.)
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: AL ZAPANTA
F.Y.I.
GERALD B. FORD
TO: STU
Mar 18, ' 76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR PAUL FANNIN, AZ.
He is solidly for the President.
He and Frank Zarb will be in Ariz soon and will hopefully
be able to swing some influence toward the President.
The biggest help in Az. is winning Primaries in other states.
He is a bit worried about N. Carolina. - thinks it could be
a sleeper for the RR camp. He is very happy the President is
going back to N. Car. Says not to let up now that we are ahead.
Try to keep RR and his supporters-- in a position to support
the President after he has the nomination. Ie., , give them a
way out besides unconditional surrender.
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F.Y.I.
=
01
FUAL
AMMUNT
TO: STU
Mar 19, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR LOWELL P. WEICKER, CONN
He is solidly for the President.
He, the two congressmen and Rep state chairman have a good
relationship and have no problems with the PFC.
Feels we are doing fine and has no complaints about the PFC
or what we are (or are not) doing in Conn.
If election were today between President Ford and either HHH
or Senator Jackson, President Ford would lose by a little.
Reason is that they still have about 12% unemployment in Conn.
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: RICK AHEARN
F.Y.I.
GERATO
7024
TO: STU
Mar 19, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR BOB DOLE, KA
Still have an agricluture problem that we must deal with in November.
President helped himself with farm people in his "Springfield" farm speech
but didn't do much for himself in his "St Louis" speech.
Now the farmers are at least asking: "Does he really mean it?" If the
President follows up on his ideas of estate tax, keeping markets open, etc.,
they will fall in behind him again. BUT, there is still much doubt in their
minds as they feel they were lied to before--so; he must follow up with
action to prove his credibility.
The American Association of Agricultural Editors (I'm told is the title) is
in town April 26th. Person in Sen Dole's office said they are the big city
farm editors and will get coverage of perhaps 80% of the ag areas of America.
If this is true, it may be an excellent group of editors for the President
to address.
Senator Dole has put together a speech on how Agriculture is the last
bastion of free-enterpirse and taking it to urban America. In other words
he is selling the farm position to the city folks.
He will gladly advocate - - for himself, for other senate candidates, for
the President, for the Republican party. Our scheduling people can talk to
him or his AA, Mr Wohlford and get more info.
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ACTION
SCHEDULING
R.
GERALD
MORD
Bob m.
TO: STU
Mar 24, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG JOHN RHODES, AZ.
This was merely a protocol visit as he has complete access. He seemed
to think it was a good idea to have someone
call on each of
the Republicans on the hill.
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: AL ZAPANTA
F.Y.I.
R. GERALD FORD
TO: STU
Mar 24, '76
FM: LEO
RE: CONG J. WILLIAM STANTON, OHIO
Solidly with the President.
In just last couple days there has been a lot of RR activity in filing
delegates before the deadline tomorrow at 4PM (25th of Mar.)
Suggests we have a program whereby we contact all congressmen and senators
who are for the President and ask for specifics. Example he gave was:
Coach Shula of Miami Dolphins is Stanton's best friend and could have been
very helpful in the Fla primary. Stanton never thought of him but certainly
would have if we had gone to him for Bill Low's program. He suggests we
do this for Wisc. In essence he is saying do the same thing we have been
doing but be more active, ie., letters, etc as it takes a long time to make
it around to all 180 of them one on one.
Overall he seemed very pleased.
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BILL LOW
F.Y.I.
R.
GERALD
FORD
TO: STU
Mar 24, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR MARK HATFIELD, ORE
Solidly with the President.
He was involved in selecting the PFC people in Ore, therefore, is very
pleased with them.
Have excellent relationship between Oregon Rep Party, his organization
and PFC.
No problems and no complaints.
(it's all fun when one runs into an attitude like this.)
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: NOLA HAERLE
F.Y.I.
LIBRARY GERALD ? FORD
TO: STU
Mar 25, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR JACOB JAVITS, NY
Thinks it would be a serious mistake if the President doesn't visit New
York before their Primary. He will make this known to the Vice President
and the President.
He says "he hopes" the uncommitted delegates from the NY Primary will
"commit"to the President shortly after their Primary.
He also says it's time to stop being "cozy" and the President should
just come right out and ask that they (NY delegates) pledge their support
to him.
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F.Y.I.
SCHEDULING OFFICE
LISEARY GERALD R. FORD
Bob m.
TO: STU
Mar 25, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR HIRAM FONG, HAWAII
Senator Fong has not been to Hawaii for some time. He will be going in
next couple weeks and will spend time with the PFC folks there. Upon
return will give us the "word" on how we are doing there.
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ADDITIONAL COPY TO: NOLA HAERLE
F.Y.I.
LIBRARY GERALD R. FORM
Boom.
TO: STU
Mar 22, '76
FM: LEO
RE: SENATOR CLIFFORD P. HANSEN, WY
He believes RR is the greatest thing that ever happened to
President Ford.
He feels absolutely certain President Ford will receive
the nomination.
He feels we should be doing whatever we can do keep RR in
the race, even into the convention, SO there will be some
interest in the Republican Party.
He does not think the President Ford / RR race is hurting
the party, only helping it.
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F.Y.I.
&
FORD
GERALD
LIBRARY