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Ford Newsletter, Oct.-Dec. 1950
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Ford Newsletter, Oct.-Dec. 1950
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This file contains material relating to Harry Truman.
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Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
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Great Britain
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U.S. House of Representatives. 3/4/1789-
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This document scanned from Box D1 of the Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
October 5, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Here is one of the best stories that has been heard in Washington ever since
the President called the Marines the Navy's "police force", and accused them of
being a propaganda agency similar to Stalin's.
A Congressman appointed a strapping young Marine sergeant to the Naval Academy
at Annapolis. The doctors rejected this battle-decorated Marine because they said
he had defective teeth. The Congressman who had appointed him to Annapolis was
outraged and immediately telephoned a top Marine officer in the Pentagon. The
Congressman asked this question: "Do you expect this Marine to bite the enemy?"
The Marine official replied, "He may have to if the President keeps on trying to
cripple the Marine Corps and the Navy.
******
Several weeks ago when the President declared his intention to veto the "Com-
munist Control" bill there was some fear that he might nullify this legislative
effort of Congress by a "pocket veto." The President, although he vetoed the "Commie"
control bill, didn't follow this particular procedure. The question arose, however,
can Congress override a "pocket veto"? The answer: Congress can't. Pocket vetoes
are possible only when Congress goes home for more than 10 days. In such cases the
President simply "pockets" the bill and forgets it, and it dies.
During the second session of the 81st Congress a new procedure was used in the
handling of appropriation bills. In the past during each session there were 11
individual appropriation bills and there was very little if any coordination in the
handling of this important legislation. As a result in recent years the expenditures
of the federal government got pretty much out of hand.
This year, however, the appropriation bills were combined in a "single package"
with rather good results, By this method Congress cut normal budget items approx-
imately $2 billion below President Truman's budget requests. For this reason some
GERALD
of the President's leaders are anxious to sidetrack the "single-package" technique
next year but that isn't the apparent sentiment in Congress.
For example Senator Byrd of Virginia has reminded members of Congress that last
year (1949) the Senate spent a total of 290 hours over a 10 month period debating 11
separate appropriation bills. Result: A new increase of $100 million over the
President's budget requests. This year the Senate debated 236 hours on the "single-
package" bill. Result: A net decrease of $2.3 billion, With soaring military
expenditures and emergency defense appropriations, Congress should take advantage
of any and all methods to reduce domestic spending and the "single-package" method
seems like a good one to accomplish that purpose.
Every American is mighty proud of the recent brillient military successes in
Korea. General MacArthur engineered a skillfully planned maneuver that sealed the
doom of the Communist forces in South Korea. It must be remembered, however, that
improvising after the event is neither cheap nor safe. In other words, in the months
ahead we must build up our military strength in order to forestall other Communist
aggressions It isn't fair to put the entire burden of our national security on only
a few of our citizens. Our men in Korea have acted courageously and with skill.
Some have made the supreme sacrifice. Out of respect to them and for our nation's
future security, the United States must hereafter maintain adequate military strength.
#
*
Following the overriding of President Truman's veto the Congress recessed until
November 27th. Any unfinished business of the 81st Congress will be completed in
December. Some of us preferred a shorter recess period but the Speaker of the House
and Senator Lucas of Illinois, majority leader in the Senate, had it all arranged
and we in the minority were unsuccessful in trying to get Congress back to work at
an earlier date. Although Congress is not in session for a few weeks, my local
schedule is a busy one. I plan to get around the vistrict but if anyone has any
problems stop in at the Post Office in Grand Rapids, Room 227, or call me at Glendale
4-9012.
VISITOR: Benn M. Corwin of Grand Rapids.
October 12, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
The war in Korea has turned the spotlight on the United Nations. The defense
of Korea was supposedly a U. N. responsibility. However, 98% of the effort fell
directly on the United States, our soldiers and taxpayers, Consequently an equally
high percentage of "United Nations casualties" came from American forces.
Because of the relatively weak effort by the other nations in the U. N. many
American citizens rightly think that the "rules" of joint U. N. military action
must be changed. In other words, it isn't fair for the citizens of the United States
to bear all the burdens in trying to meet Soviet imperialist aggression.
The Korean war has emphatically pointed out the fact that Uncle Sam has been
shouldering most of the United Nations burdens. Unfortunately this problem in a
different way has existed for some time but the State Department under Mr. Acheson
hasn't accomplished much in getting the U. N. nations to assume their fair share.
This is what I mean. All the nations in the U. N. are supposed to make financial
contributions so the U. N. can operate. The United States in every instance has
paid more into the "kitty" than its share while other member nations constantly fail
to do their part. It's been the same over and over again. To put it bluntly, our
allies seem to be better bargainers than our Department of State and as a result
Uncle Sam continues to pick up the check. It's high time President Truman and his
foreign policy advisors were a lot tougher in our negotiations and if Mr. Acheson and
his assistants can't "cut the buck" more competent negotiators should be given the
job.
******
When the 81st Congress closes its book there will be a number of new faces re-
gardless of any political changes based on Republican or Democrat victories. Mich-
igan loses three. Representative Earl Michener of Adrian is retiring voluntarily
after 30 years of superb public service. The House of Representatives will miss Earl
for he has been liked and respected by all regardless of political party affiliation.
Personally I am deeply indebted to this fine elder statesman for his always helpful
suggestions.
GERALD FORD (IBEAR)
Congressman Albert Engel of Muskegon and Lake City, after many terms in the
House, was a candidate for Governor and therefore will not be back January 3, 1951.
The Committee on Appropriations is losing a valuable member, for Albert was the best
"watchdog" of federal funds the nation has seen in many a day. He terrified the
bureaucrats with his facts and figures when they tried to get undeserved appropriat-
ions from the Congress. The record shows that on one occasion Representative Engel
singlehanded saved the federal taxpayers approximately four billion dollars. Albert
has done me a mighty nice favor by resigning from the Committee on Appropriations so
that I could be appointed to take his place when Congress reconvenes November 27th.
This is one of the top Committees in the Congress and consequently a swell break for
our district. It means plenty of extra work and long hours for the Committee handles
all government spending and in these days that's plenty, in fact too much.
******
One of the first documents I received from Washington after the 1948 elections
was a reprint of a speech by a veteran Congressman, Charley Plumley of Vermont. The
title - The Making of a Congressman. Charley was a great believer in getting new
men off on the right foot. He is also retiring voluntarily but I presume some other
old timer will be carrying on the job of helping the "freshmen" in the 82nd Congress.
******
The other day a friend asked, "Can Congress jail a person who refuses to answer
questions about possible Communist affiliation or gambling activities?" Here's the
answer. Congress cannot directly put a person in jail for refusing to answer such
questions, but the House or Senate can vote a "contempt of Congress" citation which
is then turned over to the U. S. District Attorney for prosecution. If the D. A.
decides prosecution is possible, the case can be tried in federal court. A procedure
no longer used was to try the case in House or Senate depending on which voted the
contempt citation.
******
VISITORS: Mr. R. L. McKay, Steve Barnard and Mr. Gerald R. Ford Sr. all from
Grand Rapids. Mr. and Mrs. H. Ter Haar and Mr. and Mrs. Niel Steketee from Holland.
******
October 19, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
A good many folks from time to time rant and rave about interference from Wash-
ington in their daily existence and Congress gets berated periodically for setting
up some new agency or program. The best insurance I know against new "bureaucratic
regimentation" is doing the necessary job right at home. For example, support the
Community Chest with an open heart and a generous pocketbook. The Community Chest
agencies do a fine job and need your help. Furthermore, I'm sure we all can get
more satisfaction out of doing the job locally instead of with "Washington bigwigs."
If the job isn't done at home someone will soon demand that it be accomplished by
the federal government and your tax dollars.
******
The other evening I attended the monthly Kent City Farm Bureau Community Group
meeting. One of the members asked, "Is it true that Congress is elected by less than
half the people in the United States of voting age?" The answer is yes and we should
not be very proud of that record. For example, in 1946 only 38 per cent of the folks
old enough to vote in the United States actually voted in elections for members of
the House of Representatives. Michigan with 41% was a little better than the national
average but that should be improved this year. Your government needs your personal
attention. If this thought registers with you, register with your Township Clerk by
Oct. 18th so you can vote November 7th.
******
A couple of Washington statisticians just sent out some information that is
worth reporting. In 1949 the House of Representatives had 236 roll call votes. That's
where a member is recorded in black and white. In 1950 so far there have been 288 roll
call votes. A total of 524 in the two sessions to date. The Clerk of the House in-
forms me I've answered 96.4 per cent of the recorded roll calls.
In addition, Members of Congress in the course of their legislative responsibil-
ities are called upon to make many votes which are not recorded in the usual roll call
method. These votes are designated as voice votes, consents, divisions and tellers.
GERALD FOND
In August, 1950 there were 1167 voice votes. In this same month there were 113 div-
ision votes where members simply stand and are counted by the presiding officer. For
the same period there were 18 teller votes. That's where members of the House march
up the center aisle and are counted by tellers. In addition, in August there were
1784 consent votes making a total of 3115 votes in all during the 23 legislative days
in the month. Believe it or not, the statisticians say that in each Congress there
are approximately 40,000 votes of all kinds for each member of the House,
The State Department recently reported that the Russian Communist government
still retains 459 of the 585 United States naval vessels that our government loaned
to Russia in World War II. The "commies" also have failed to return 84 of the 96
merchant ships loaned them during the last war. A demand has been made for some of
the ships but not for all. Why not in all cases? It doesn't make sense that Uncle
Sam should be fighting Russia and her satellite nations throughout the world and
then on the other hand continue to provide our enemies with our own ships. The State
Department should be tougher in this particular situation just as Secretary Acheson
and his aides should be more hard boiled in other negotiations with Stalin.
******
The Buchanan Committee set up to investigate lobbying activities had better
look rather closely at some government employees and agencies who do a good bit of
propagandizing. The situation calls to mind the old story, "People who live in
glass houses shouldn't throw stones." Mr. Oscar Ewing, head of the Federal Security
Agency, in trying to promote socialized medicine, has had government press agents
prepare 33 speeches for him for this purpose. The committee would be wise to ex-
amine carefully Mr. Ewing's lobbying activities and furthermore the Congress next
year should tighten down on these government propagandists.
October 26, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
E.S.A.; N.P.A.; M.E.A. and O.D.M. These are the new alphabetical designations
for the federal agencies that will handle some of the war mobilization in the months
ahead. Unfortunately most of the alphabetic agencies exist mostly on paper. This
problem is "confusin' but not amusin'". The mad scramble for power by the various
departments and agencies under President Truman has seriously disrupted and delayed
any orderly mobilization effort. Mr. Symington, head man in this over-all job, needs
some help from the President. If Mr. Truman doesn't step in soon Uncle Sam is going
to lose additional valuable time and money in preparing for our national security.
Last week I was asked, "Has Congress closed down entirely during the present
adjournment?" The answer is no. Important committees are meeting regularly. These
committees will have some draft law changes ready when Congress reconvenes. Big city
crime syndicates are being investigated by committees in Kansas City and elsewhere.
In addition, small business and labor-management problems are getting committee attent..
ion during this adjournment period.
++++++
The Peoples Business. In the present fiscal year the U. S. government will
spend about 60 billion dollars. This means an average cost of $401.51 to every man,
woman and child in this country. Of that amount $211.80 will go for present and
future wars. This startling news should make us realize our responsibilities to the
government and its problems.
This past week Senator Ferguson and Mrs. Ferguson were in Kent County for a visit.
I kept him busy in the short time that was available. We met personally a number of
the men and women who work at Nash-Kelvinator and American Seating. We talked with
the veterans of World War I and II at the Michigan Veterans Facility. In addition
we discussed problems with many individual citizens throughout the county. The
Fergusons have asked me to thank the folks of our part of Michigan for the cordial
welcome extended,
******
GERALD
While visiting the Veterans Facility hospital we stopped to chat with one veteran
who was a wonderful example of a top notch citizenship. Despite his bad health and
his confinement to the hospital he told us he always did his solemn duty on election
day. In fact, this veteran has already applied for his absentee voters ballot. It
doesn't make much difference how he votes. That's his business and the business of
no one else. It is encouraging to know that many of our citizens, despite tremendous
personal difficulties, will do their duty for their government.
While touring the American Seating Co. plant we met a man who deserves top rating
on all counts. He is blind and has as a trusted friend a "seeing eye" dog. Despite
his physical handicap this man performs along with his fellow workers a full day's
work on the production line. People with that kind of courage and character make
us stop and think when some of our personal problems seem unbearable.
At the Nash-Kelvimator plant the Senator talked with many workers concerning
their individual and employment problems. He was particularly interested in the
production line jobs where one sees how each and every worker contributes his or her
part in the finished product. It is the job of a Senator or Representative to see
first-hand what makes American products the best in the world. Too often a legislator
never gets that opportunity.
FORD i LIBRARI GERALD
NOVEMBER 2, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Some illuminating facts have been brought to light that should be printed as
part of the public record regardless of how mad we might get on learning the full
story. Here it is. From September 1945 to June 1949 the U. S. government, presumably
with the knowledge and consent of the Department of State, sent Soviet Russia more
than $279,000,000 worth of tanks, guns, ships, agricultural, industrial and other
commodities. In this three year period it was our government's policy to send more
than $2,800,000 worth of tanks and other vehicles to Russia plus 21 million in vessels,
plus 9 million in miscellaneous military equipment.
In 1945 when some of these deals were made with the Kremlin, Alger Hiss was still
wielding his influence in the State Department. Perhaps this explains why the U. S.
was so generous in our dealings with the communist regime in Russia. The other day
I pointed out this situation to a friend who stopped in the office. He raised this
question. "How much of this military equipment which was transferred to Russia by
our State Department and other government executives was used against our own men
in Korean battles?" Some undoubtedly. No wonder there is criticism of the State
Department.
******
News stories have told of captured American GIs being transferred by North Kor-
eans to Manchuria and Communist China as prisoners of war. This action should be
condemned by the Department of State and immediate action should be taken to stop
any such cooperation between the military forces of North Korea and the Reds. Our
American foreign policy makers in the Pacific area have appeased too long the Comm-
unist Regime in China and elsewhere. It would be tragic to have American soldiers
disappear behind the Chinese "iron curtain."
Statisticians on the loose again. The Congress so far during 1950 was in session
from January 3rd through September 23rd. The House of Representatives was operated
158 days in this period. The debates and discussions filled 6,631 pages. Contrast
this with the 9,287 pages for Senate proceedings. All this produced 1134 laws. A
good many more, some good, some bad, are still awaiting congressional action and when
Congress reconvenes in November the docket of unfinished business will get immediate
attention.
GERALD FORD
The President in the nine months vetoed 43 legislative proposals submitted by
Congress. Mr. Truman's most publiczed veto was his disapproval of the "communist
control" law. The House and Senate promptly over-rode this Presidential veto but
it now appears that the President will try to get around the law by indirect methods.
You would think the White House would make a sincere effort to carry out the spirit
of the law but so far that is definitely not the case.
******
Citizens throughout the country are guessing as to what took place at Wake Island
during the Truman-MacArthur get-together. Speculation is pretty terrific regarding
probable effect on U. S. Far Eastern diplomatic policy. I certainly hope that General
MacArthur convinced the President of the need and necessity for a change from the
bumbling Acheson policy in that part of the, world.
******
The 81st Congress did a "fair to middlin" job in regards to the Hoover Commission
recommendations and undoubtedly some greater governmental efficiency in high places
has resulted. However, a recent experience with the Department of Commerce makes me
wonder. On October 11, 1950 a local businessman informed me he wanted to buy a ship-
load of steel from overseas and asked my assistance with any government agency. Not
being an expert on how or where to buy a shipload of steel from across the Atlantic,
I wrote the Secretary of Commerce for information. It was an urgent request for help
for a local industry and its employees. Two weeks elapsed and no answer. Finally I
called via long distance and was told the letter was on its way. Three days later -
still no answer. Guess we must check this one off to "bureaucratic red tape."
******
Some have wondered what would happen if the elections November 7th resulted in
the Senate having 48 Republican Senators and 48 Democrats. Which political party
would then control the Senate? If that split in the membership should occur the
Democrats probably would keep control for ordinarily the Vice President casts a vote
where there is a tie and he would be expected to favor his Party.
******
Just a final word before November 7th. When we realize how long and hard men
and women fought for the right to vote one can hardly believe that so many neglect
the privilege. It would be healthy for this great nation if there was a 100% voter
participation in the elections this fall.
******
Visitors: Mr. & Mrs. Arthur W. Johnson, Mr. & Mrs. Arthur P. Edison.
GERALD
++++++
November 9, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Your Congressman writes the column this week before the votes of November 7th
are counted. By the time you read the column the election results throughout the
nation will be known. For myself I want to thank each and every citizen of our
district for the help and encouragement over the past two years. The decisions have
been difficult but at all times I've done my best to represent all the citizens of
Kent and Ottawa Counties. In addition it has been a pleasure to write my weekly
report on the happenings in Washington. You should know the facts, good or bad, on
your federal government and the people who are running it. It's your government
and with your assistance and knowledge it can be strengthened.
With the elections over and a good citizen turnout recorded it is interesting
to look through the pages of history to see how important "one vote" can be. Thomas
Jefferson and John Quincy Adams were each elected by one vote in the electoral college.
Another President, Rutherford B. Hayes, was elected by one vote. This election was
contested and upheld again by a single vote. The man who cast that deciding vote
for President Hayes was a Congressman from Indiana who was elected to Congress in the
preceding election by a margin of just one vote. And that one vote was cast by a
man who, though desperately ill, insisted on being taken to the polls to cast that
one ballot.
Just one vote gave statehood to California, Idaho, Oregon, Texas and Washington.
In 1918, woman suffrage in the U. S. passed the House of Representatives with just
one vote to spare. When the bill went to the Senate, it failed to pass by just two
votes. Fortunately it passed both the House and Senate in 1919.
Obviously your vote, in fact every vote, counts. It's pretty silly to contend
your vote makes no difference. I sincerely hope everybody assumed their full citizen
responsibilities last Tuesday.
******
GERALD FORD
The bad news indicating that Chinese Communist troops are fighting with the
North Koreans and against our G.I.s should make everyone's blood boil. These mili-
tary reverses mean more reservists called back into the armed services and more men
drafted under Selective Service. State Department officials who are responsible for
this "communist" government in China should hang their heads in shame and resign
their jobs. By coddling the Red Chinese leaders the policy makers in Mr. Truman's
Department of State have strengthened Stalin's grip on the China mainland. Now those
Red leaders whom Mr. Acheson and Alger Hiss favored are turning their troops on our
soldiers in Korea. I suppose the President and Secretary of State Acheson will next
propose that our government give diplomatic recognition to this Chinese Communist
government.
Last week a friend, because there is talk about Mr. Truman seeking re-election,
asked this question. Has Congress limited the number of terms one person can be
President? The Congress has done its part of the job; the decision now rests with
the 48 states. Congress in 1947 passed a Constitutional Amendment limiting a Pres-
ident to two elected terms or not more than 10 years if he succeeded from the vice
presidency. However, only 24 of the necessary 36 states have ratified this proposed
amendment to the Constitution of the United States. There is a time limit on when
the states must act, If 36 states fail to approve the amendment by 1954 the proposal
dies unless Congress starts the process anew.
According to reliable reports from Washington, President Truman and his Budget
Bureau in January will propose to Congress a 73 billion dollar spending program of
your tax dollars. A good many taxpayers must be thinking along these lines. "Some-
thing's going to slip sooner or later. The world is standing on Uncle Sam's should-
ers; the federal government is standing on the American taxpayer's back, and the
American taxpayer is standing on the ragged edge."
The Congress will do its level best to balance expenditures with revenues. It
can be done without hurting the defense program providing some pruning is accomplish-
ed on nondefense items. I'm afraid in the President's proposed 73 billion dollar
budget there is no attempt to curtail extravagance and waste.
GERALD
November 23, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY CERALD R. FORD, JR.
A note to the ladies. Feminine representation in the 82nd Congress
will consist of Senator Margaret Chase Smith plus eight Representatives,
Out of the nine women in the Congress, seven will be Republicans and
three will be Democrats. Michigan makes its contribution by having
Republican Ruth Thompson from Muskegon County and the 9th District.
Our delegation will miss former Representative Albert Engel who was
a top notch "watchdog" of federal funds, but Judge Thompson will be
welcomed to the ranks.
Down in Ohio an independentwas elected to the House. He knocked
off the incumbent who was a Democrat. Back in 1936 he managed Presi-
dent Roosevelt's campaign in the Buckeye state. During the campaign
this year the Democratic Party leaders attacked him as a carpetbagger.
After the election he was asked whether he would sit with the Democrats
or the Republicans. His reply: "If I have my way, I will sit in the
aisle on my carpetbag."
How many "new" faces in the House of Representatives when the 82nd
Congress convenes January 3, 1951? At this time it appears there will
be 234 Democrat Congressmen, 200 Republicans and one independent. Of
the 435 Representatives, approximately 87 percent will have served in
some previous session. Out of the 435 House members, 363 will be in-
cambents from the 81st Congress, while 14 will be ex-Representatives who
successfully campaigned again this year. Of the incumbents, 217 are
Democrats and 146 Republicans, There are three Democrats and 11 Repub-
licans among the ex-Representatives who are returning to their old
stamping ground on the floor of the House. All told, there will be 58
novice, or freshmen, Congressmen.
The Congress convening January 3rd will be the 82nd since 1789, The
first Congress served from 1789 until 1791 during the first administration
of George Washington. In contrast to the 435 members in the House of
Representatives at the present time, the first Congress had only 65
House members.
Talk about the size of the House of Representatives brings up a
problem which will have to be decided in the months ahead. The 1950
Census indicates there will be some losses for some states and gains
for others in the House of Representatives. Because of our population
increase, Michigan will probably have 18 Representatives instead of 17.
This means the Michigan legislature will have to reapportion the State
to squeeze in the new district for the additional Congressman. More
than likely the new Congressional district will be set up in the Wayne
County area where there has been the biggest population increase.
California, as a state, picks up seven more representatives.
Washington, Texas, Maryland and Virginia each pick up one. The big
losses in representation come from New York, Pennsylvania, Missouri and
Oklahoma. These changes, which will first be a political factor in the
election of 1952, and the 83rd Congress convening in January, 1953, will
probably foretell a slight but definite shift in the center of political
gravity toward the West and Southwest.
We are living today in a world in conflict. If one excludes Korea,
Indo China and Tibet, it is a war fought with words instead of bullets.
It is a war for men's minds. But it is nonetheless a deadly serious
war, and one in which the United States, if we do not win, stands to lose
everything we hold dear.
Words and ideas are effective weapons. How much is Uncle Sam doing
along this line? Last year America allotted 47 million dollars for a
globe-wide propaganda campaign. In the same year Russia spent an esti-
mated 30 million in Italy alone,
The Voice of America is a mere whisper compared to Russia's "roar".
The Voice of America broadcasts 209 program hours a week, about 30 hours
per day. Against that is a flood of Russian-controlled global radie
propaganda and vituperation, estimated to total 885 program hours a week
or about 120 broadcast hours each day.
We in this nation know the truth about ourselves, the opportunities
and freedoms we enjoy. However, the millions of people in other lands be-
yond the Iron Curtain do not know the benefits of our kind of government.
The U.S. must tell with pride its story in hopes that others from oppressed
GRUALD
lands will join in the Crusade for Freedom.
For release Thursday, November 31st
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR,
There seems to be a good bit of canfusion on the calling of
men into active duty with the Army, Navy and Air Force. Admittedly
it's a tough job to bring our military strength up to the necessary
defense level and I don't envy the men who have the job of deciding
who should den a military uniform. Certainly the civilians voluntarily
serving on the draft boards, without pay and at a great personal sacri-
fice, deserve our wholehearted support and commendation, In addition,
the military officers in charge of mobilizing the reserves are beset
with tough and seemingly unsolvable decisions. It is safe to say that
few of us would trade places with any of the individuals who must make
some of these selective service and reserve recall decisions.
From the situations that have come to my attention in the last
few months since the outbreak of the Korean War, it would seem that
the top policy makers in both the Department of Defense and Selective
Service were at fault. There seems to be a decided lack of coordina-
tion between the top echelen of Selective Service and those in charge
of recalling reservists. For example, inactive reservists in the Army,
Navy and Air Corps are apparently called back to active duty despite
certain physical disabilities while draftees are deferred even though
they are as well qualified physically.
Here is a specific case of how reservists and draftees are
handled differently and I think unjustifiably SO. An inactive Army
reservist who is a preseminary theological student, even though he is
in his last year, cannot be deferred. At the same time a young man in
the same situation under the draft law regulations will get a deferment.
Such a contradiction in regulations seems to penalize the fellow who
already served in World War II.
The confusion is brund to result in Congressional review and action.
Chairman Carl Vinson of the House Committee on Armed Services will be
hearing many camplaints when Congress reconvenes, and knowing him I'm
certain the Department of Defense and Selective Service will be told
to get the chaes and inequities straightened out prants.
*****
A birthday passed November 17th but the day went by hardly noticed,
The 150th Anniversary of the first session of the Congress of the United
States in Washington, D.C. occurred on that date but the House and Senate
were not in session this year to observe it. The first session of the
Sixth Congress sat in Philadelphia but the second session convened in
Washington, D.C. November 17, 1800. The Congress has met in Washington
since then,
Do most Congressmen have previous training which cemes in handy in
the drafting of laws? The answer is yes for about 60 per cent of the
members of the House and Senate are lawyers. In addition, almost all have
had previsas experience in civic service or politics. As a matter of fact,
it's probably a good thing that all of the 531 federal Lawmakers are not
attorneys, It's been my experience that some of the men and women serving
in the Congress who are farmers, teachers, docters and businessmen often-
times make the most constructive suggestions.
It might interest you to know that a good bit of the actual drafting
of legislative proposals is done by a highly competent staff of prefessional
lawyers attached to the Legislative Counsel's office. If a Congressman has
an idea for a proposed law he usually does the preliminary work himself and
then turns the material over to those experts for final inspection. The
Legislative Counsel lawyers work with both Democrats and Republicans alike.
They're only interested in getting a bill in proper shape before it's dropped
in the legislative hopper. You never saw such sticklers for detail.
Everytime a new Congress is selected by the voters throughout the
United States the question is asked, Will members of the new Congress be
younger? The statisticians after analyzing the records say the 82nd
Congress will be about average in that respect. In the House and Senate
the average age is 53 years with the Senators averaging about four to five
years older than the members of the House.
GESALO R.FORD 1
December 7, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
The atmosphere in the Nation's Capitol is tense although on the surface a stran-
ger in town would not realize that to be the case. Members of the House when seeing
each other for the first time after the two month recess shook hands and said the
usual greetings. However, once that was done the discussions were always devoted to
the critical international situation and the ability of our nation to defend itself
against further Communist aggression. Among Congressmen there is considerable resent-
ment over the underground sniping aimed at General MacArthur by some officials in
the government. The MacArthur critics appear to be the same officials who appeased
and promoted the Communist regime in China at the end of World War II. There is
also a growing Congressional demand that the President should do some wholesale house-
cleaning in the Department of State in order to root out those who were duped into
believing that the Chinese Communists would ever be friendly to the United States.
Our diplomatic blunders in China after World War II are the blackest mark in the
history of American diplomacy.
The weather threw a monkey wrench in the plans to get Congress reopened Novemb-
er 27th.
The Fords made the trip back to Washington on time. Betty and Mike flew
back in 3½ hours without difficulty, but I drove back alone and the trip through
Ohio and Pennsylvania was really rough. Normally one can drive the 650 miles in 16
hours, but this time I was lucky to make it in 35 hours. Planned to arrive in Wash-
ington at least 24 hours before Congress reconvened but with all the trouble enroute
was lucky to pull into the Capitol an hour before Speaker Rayburn rapped his gaval
calling the House to order.
The worst snow storm in 37 years really fouled up the Ohio roads. Traffic was
snarled beyond all comprehension. Everyone was pushing or pulling some other car out
GERALD
of the ditch or a snow bank. A hundred times I wished that I had purchased those
chains which I thought about buying in Grand Rapids before departure.
Almost stopped overnight in Youngstown conditions were so terrible. Everybody
said the roads were even worse ahead. Perhaps foolishly I kept on and although it
took three hours to go 12 miles after that stretch the drive was easier.
Pittsburgh at 3 A.M. after 37 inches of snow was a mess. The National Guard and
the local police were patrolling the streets. Glad they were for an Army jeep with
four wheel drive had to pull me out of two different snow piles. Was tempted to stop
there but after a couple of cups of coffee decided to keep on. Finally after 28 hours
of continuous driving arrived in Washington, a little weary but on time. The only
bright part of the trip was the radio news as I drove of Michigan's football victory
over Ohio State.
******
This "lame-duck" session of the Congress is not the first to reconvene after
elections since the Constitution was changed by the 20th Amendment in 1933. The 80th
Congress did convene for a few hours on December 31, 1948 for formal adjournment.
Neither the House or Senate in the short "lame-duck" session are meeting in
regular quarters. The remodelling job on the Capitol isn't complete and won't be
until January lst. Haven't had time to take a look at what the workmen have been do-
ing, but from all reports the chambers will be brightened considerably. In the mean-
time we meet in the Ways and Means Committee room.
Visitors in Washington: Mr. and Mrs. J. Leslie, Mr. and Mrs. Art Lindberry,
George Young, and John Cummiskey all of Grand Rapids.
******
GERALD
December 14, 1950
YOUR MASHINGTON REVIEW
By GERALD R. FORD, JR.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Public Works notified me
the other day that our committee was to have witnesses on some emergency
legislation involving 190 million dollars. The Chairman had received a
personal request from the President for the immediate consideration of
the bill. Mr. Truman and his advisors thought it was important in view
of the danger of enemy attack to initiate a program for the dispersal of
some essential government buildings in the District of Columbia. It
seems our officials in the Executive Branch of the government are ex-
tremely concerned because of the heavy concentration of government
records and personnel in a relatively small area in downtown Washington.
Within a few miles of the White House approximately 170,000 federal
employees do their daily chores from day to day.
With all this money involved I visualized a rather complicated and
lengthy legislative proposal. Imagine my surprise when on my desk at
the committee I found a 21/2 page bill. That's really boiling it down;
190 million dollars in 38 lines of proposed legislation.
Extensive hearings were held; some behind closed doors, because of
the secret information given the committee by our military leaders on
potential enemy bombs and bombers. Because the initial hearings were
lacking in certain details the Committee is holding off any action for
a week until the defense departments and city planners get more data.
The prize comment during the questioning of witnesses came from Repre-
sentative Will Whittington who said, "You planners are fine in drawing
up designs and schemes but you never tell the legislators how to raise
the money. IT
******
On December 7th of this year a rather interesting and extremely
bitter debate flared up in the House of Representatives, It started out
when four so-called "left-wing" Democrat congressmen arose on the floor
of the House one after another and praised Secretary of State Acheson
and his foreign policies. This pro-Acheson oratory by the extreme liberal
wing of the Democrate brought some fire from a Republican congressman who
GERA FORD LIBRABY
just returned from a four week survey first hand of the Korean War.
The Republican, Representative Scott of Pennsylvania, said "Nine years
have passed since Pearl Harbor and we have lost every diplomatic con-
test in our dealings with the nations of the world.
...
The record
of the Secretary of State is clear. That is why he should resign
forthwith. If One of the most astute members of the House said to me
as he listened to the four "left-wing" Democrats lavish praise on Mr.
Acheson, "It's interesting to observe what group of Congressmen seem
to come to Acheson's support. The liberals always defend the "striped
pants boys" in the Department of State."
The big news in the Nation's Capital was the visit of Prime Minister
Attlee. After a number of meetings between Mr. Truman and Mr. Attlee
a six page statement was issued setting forth the results of these high
level conferences. Apparently the two leaders see "eye to eye" on the
issue of no appeasement toward the ruthless aggression of the Chinese
Reds. However, the British apparently are standing firm in their be-
lief that the Chinese Communists should be recognized as the official
government of China and be given the Chinese seat in the United Nations.
One wonders how Prime Minister Attlee can reconcile this attitude with
the fact that the Chinese Communists are at this very moment engaged
in open warfare with U.N. forces including some British soldiers and
sailors in defiance of all the peace-seeking nations of the world. I
should think, at the very least, the Chinese Reds should "toe the mark"
before expecting any recognition or consideration from the other world
powers.
Although the President and Mr. Attlee concluded that Uncle Sam and
John Bull had nearly similar views on the basic problems facing both
nations, there may well be some objections in the next Congress to a
continuation of heavy U.S. financial aid to Britain and other European
nations. There is an undercurrent of foeling among a good many Congress-
men that Europe should now be able to stand on its own feet economically.
This attitude is quite prevalent in the day to day cloakroom conversations
now that this country needs more and more dollars for guns, tanks, ships
and aircraft for our own national defense.
******
Guess President Truman can't resist the occasional temptation
to write rather silly letters on White House stationery. Several months
ago the President wrote disparacing remarks about the Marine Corps at a
time when the Marines were battling for our national security. Now Mr.
Truman threatens to beat up a music critic who said his daughter's voice
was a little flat. Hope the President doesn't spend his time in the
future "popping off" on such personal matters. Seems to me there are
some rather important government decisions he might concentrate on instead.
******
VISITORS: Mrs. James C. Parker, Dr. John A. Van Bruggen, Reverend Edward
Heerema, Miss Kathryn Adams, Professor Henry J. Ryskamp, Father Joseph
Walen, Dr. Leon DeVel, City Commissioner Bernard Barto, Millard Pritchard,
A. Drasin and his son George, and S.C.T.Lloyd.
******
December 21, 1950
YOUR MASHINGTON REVIEW
BY TERALD R. FORD, JR.
The past few weeks have been jammed with lots of legislation,
far more than was anticipated for the "lame duck" session. The
critical international situation and the serious condition of the
domestic economy kept the wheels of Congress moving at a rather rapid
rate, Nevertheless the members of our Committee on Public Works had
a short but rather nice ceremony honoring Representative George Dondero
of Royal Oak, Michigan.
During the 80th Congress George was Chairman of the Committee on
Public Works. It is traditional that a portrait of all past chairmen
be appropriately placed in the committee room, The present chairman of
the committee during the 81st Congress is, of course, a Democrat, Will
Whittington of Mississippi; and no finer man and public servant ever
lived. Will Whittington is voluntarily retiring from the Congress at
the end of this term after 24 years in the House, and he took this
occasion in honor of his long standing friend George Dondero to make
a few final remarks as his own career draws to its close. I shall
never forget this fine gentlemen of some 75 years saying, "His
generation had unlocked many of the secrets of the globe except the
lock of psace. if His final plea to us of younger years was that our
struggle be continued unabated for a "larger life and a better free--
dom. II WIJI Whittington in urging a constructive approach at all times
wisely stated, "It is better to light a candle than to curse the dark-
ness. If
******
Local and statewide civilian defense programs are being formu-
lated throughout the land but in addition plans are being readied for
their integration with the over-all participation of the federal govern-
ment. Congress is now studying a three billion dollar comprehensive
civilian defense plan that would provide for the proper training and
edequate supplying of civilian volunteers. Under this vast program
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
emergency equipment, particularly medical supplies, would be stock-
piled in local communities. Shelters would be constructed along with
the necessary warning systems. The present federal legislation con-
templates that Washington pay 54 per cent of the cost of the integrated
program. The plans envisage each local community running its own
organization but the coordination between areas would be handled by
federal officials. This legislation, if not approved in this session
by December 31st, should have top priority in the opening sessions of
the 82nd Congress. There has been too much delay already.
********
The 81st Congress on December 5th passed and sent to the President
its 2000th proposed law. Number 2000 was the first on which Congressional
action was completed at the lame duck" session. It was legislation
involving the admiralty laws and courts.
It looks like statehood for Alaska and Hawaii is unfortunately
doomed during this Congress. The Democratic Majority leader, Senator
Scott Lucas, by bowing to pressure from members of his party in the
Senate cut off any hope that Hawaii and Alaska would soon join the other
forty-eight states in the Union. The shortsighted selfishness of some
states and their members in Congress will by this action cast a shadow
over the claim of the United States that our Nation believes in equality
for all territories and people throughout the world. Soviet Russia
undoubtedly will try to use as malicious propaganda this latest turn
down of statehood for the two territories.
********
Santa Claus will find our family of three in Washington instead
of Grand Rapids. Betty, Mike and I would all greatly prefer the Holidays
in Michigan with relatives and friends, but if that's all we have to kick
about, our troubles are mighty insignificant. In signing off this week,
all the Fords wish everyone at home a Very Merry Christmas.
********
VISITORS: Mr. and Mrs. James S. Banta, Jerry and Richard Falicki,
of Grand Rapids, and John E. Jacobsen, formerly of Grand Rapids.
GERALER FORD LIBRARY
December 28, 1950
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Several weeks are a number of citizens in Kent and Ottawa
Counties urged that December 15th be set aside by the President as
a Nationwide Day of Prayer for Divine Guidance. On December 11th
I wrote the President strongly endorsing this fine suggestion. I
didn't receive a reply like some of recent date from the White House,
The following letter did, however, come from the office of Mr. Truman -
"My dear Mr. Ford: Please accept the President's thanks for
your letter of December eleventh, with the enclosed tear sheet.
He asks me to tell you that he noted the editorial carefully.
As you of course know, in many public addresses as well as
in proclamations, including the recent Thanksgiving Day Pro-
clamation, the President has urged all to unite in prayer for
the peace of the world. While it wasn't possible to do as you
ask, he does want you to know that he is giving consideration
to the many appeals which are coming to him to again call the
nation to prayer.
Very sincerely yours,
(signed) MATTHEW J. CONNELLY
Secretary to the President."
On December 20th the House of Representatives by a unanimous vote
approved a resolution designating Sunday, December 24th as a Day of
Prayer. The Senate will undoubtedly concur. On the Sunday before
Christmas it is most appropriate that our citizens seek guidance from
the Almighty. In times like these may we realize that we must "Look
up" - for only from God can we get the courage to carry us through
this crisis.
*****
A number of businessmen, mostly those operating small companies
in our Congressional District, have written my office in Washington
asking information about defense contracts. Many businessmen wonder
whether they should hire "five-percents" in Washington. The answer is
definitely NO. War contracts are to be awarded on a competitive basis.
Businessmen should forget about men like General Vaughan and his "deep
freeze" gifts. The Navy, Army and Air Force are trying to handle the
big job of rearmament without the interference of "five percenters"
so don't encourage such bad practices by hiring one yourself.
*****
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
The Congress of the United States will be in session New Years'
Day. Has to be to get some energency legislation on the statute books.
Undoubtedly many folks at home are likevise outting in a good many extra
hours in this period of emergency. All of us should come to the realiza-
tion that life as usual is gone for the present and probably for several
years. These are tough times. This country must prepare to measure up
to the rigors of mobilization, price and wage controls, scarcities,
plus sacrifices on the home front as well as those of our men in the
battlefronts.
*****
Some of the oldtimers in the House had told me about such occasions,
but somehow I never quite believed them. Well, after 550 or thereabouts
roll calls, I finally saw it happen. Parliamentary rules, procedures,
etc. are set up to handle the ordinary situation but when the unusual
occurs, "time, patience and compromise" overcomes any faults in the
rules of human nature.
Here's what happened. For the last couple of months a rather contro-
versial bill has not gotten the consideration some proponents thought it
deserved. Finally pressure was brought on the Democratic Party leader-
ship to force action. Another group of Democrats violently opposed the
same bill. Most Republicans favored 1t.
Late the Wednesday before Christmas on less than 24 hours notice
the bill got the "green light" from Speaker Rayburn. The next day the
opponents were ready. When the House convened on Thursday, December
21st, a point of order was made that a quorum wasn't present.
Normally it takes 20 minutes to call the roll of the 435 members of
the House. This time it consumed two and three-quarters hours. Only
190 members were available at the regular call and 216 make a quorum.
The Democratic leaders really scurried around trying to find enough
absent members to make a quorum. In the meantime we who were on tab
and not involved in the feud sat and waited. The necessary number of
members finally appeared out of nowhere (??) when the warring factions
in the Democratic Party signed a truce. Fine shenanigans during this
critical period in our nation's history.
*****
VISITORS: Ben H. Mellema, Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Pace, Jr., William Gedris
and Joe Bork, all of Grand Rapids, and Mrs. Effie L. Curran and Stafford
R. Grady, both formerly of Grand Rapids, and William Swart, Sr. of Spring
Lake.
GERATE FORD (IBRAR)