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Office Press 1981-1982 [- March 1983] (6)
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Office Press 1981-1982 [- March 1983] (6)
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Records of the White House Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff (Reagan Administration)
Michael Deaver's Subject Files
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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual
collections.
Collection: Deaver, Michael
Folder Title: Office Press 1981-1982
[March -1983] (6)
Box: 48
To see more digitized collections
visit: https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories
visit: https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection
Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
Citation Guidelines: https://reaganlibrary.gov/citing
National Archives
Catalogue: https://catalog.archives.gov/
CBS
CBS Inc., 1800 M Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20036
(202) 457-4321
Dear Friends:
December 13, 1982
I thought you would be interested in knowing that the air time
for the CBS Television Network broadcast of "The Kennedy Center
Honors" will be Christmas night, Saturday, December 25, 1982,
from 8:00 to 10:00 PM, Easter Standard Time.
In Washington, it will be shown at that time on WDVM-TV,
Channel 9. In other cities where you may be for the holidays,
check your local broadcast listings.
CBS is privileged to present this marvelous performance, and
the tributes to the distinguished 1982 Kennedy Center honorees,
to the entire nation, and we hope you have an opportunity to
watch the edited broadcast.
With best wishes for the holidays, I remain,
Sincerely yours,
ClinWa
Donald D. Wear, Jr.
Vice President, Washington Affairs
Enclosure
Thank
People
TIME & LIFE BUILDING, ROCKEFELLER CENTER, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10020 (212) JU 6-1212
Publisher
Mr. Michael K. Deaver
Deputy Chief of Staff
December Thunk 10, 1982
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Sir:
It is a pleasure to inform you that you will receive our
magazine each week in 1983 with my compliments.
PEOPLE was, once again, named a finalist for the National
Magazine Awards, this year both for Reporting and General
Excellence. And, as a newsmaker in its own right, PEOPLE
is mentioned by journalists in all media more often than
any other weekly magazine today.
I hope that you, like the more than 19 million Americans
of voting age who read PEOPLE every week, find it enjoy-
able and informative.
With best wishes in the year ahead.
Cordially,
Richard Surrell
Richard J. Durrell
NEWHOUSE
SUITE 1320, 1750 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, NW
NEWS SERVICE
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
(202) 383-7800
THE ANN ARBOR news THE BAY CITY times THE birmingham NEWS THE FLINT JOURNAL THE grand rapids PRESS
THE EVENING NEWS, harrisburg THE PATRIOT, HARRISBURG THE huntsville times THE JACKSON citizen PATRIOT
THE staten MOBILE ISLAND ADVANCE OREGON JOURNAL THE TIMES.PICAYUNE. NEW ORLEANS THE POST-STANDARD, SYRACUSE
ST. ORLEANS states-item syracuse HERALD-JOURNAl mississippi PRESS, pascagoula THE JERSEY JOURNAL
NEW PRESS THE oregonian THE saginaw NEWS THE kalamazoo gazette THE muskegon CHRONICLE
THE STAR-LEDGER. newark
LOUIS GLOBE-DEMOCRAT springfield daily NEWS THE springfield UNION SPRINGFIELD SUNDAY REPUBLICAN
THE mobile REGISTER
December 3, 1982
Mr. Michael K. Deaver
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
love
Dear Mike:
I8m beginning to work on a major year-end piece
on the second year of the Reagan presidency, and I very much
hope I can have a session with you on that subject.
Could we have lunch, or otherwise may I come talk for
30 minutes when your schedule al lows?
We're doing out summary piece earlier than most
publications. If you can do it, I need to see you by Dec. 14,
if at all possible.
Thanks.
Lane Loye Miller
Yours truly,
People
Holdy
for
TIME INC., M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006 (202) 293-4300
November 12, 1982
Mr. Michael K. Deaver
Deputy Chief of Staff
The White House
Dear Mike:
Larry Speakes just called me and told me that
our year-end request for George Plimpton to write about
a day in the life of President Reagan has been turned
down.
Please never say never. Let us re-negotiate.
Would it be possible for George to interview
the President for an hour?
Baring that, would the White House consider a
request for a half an hour interview with the President
and our managing editor, Patrica Ryan?
We have six pages on the mock-up that are slugged
Reagan", and throughout this past week our photo editors
have been going through the White House photo books choosing
pictures to accompany the test.
As I've mentioned before, leading the double
issue with the First Family has become a tradition. Please
help it continue.
Larry has told me to abandon all hope, but I am
re-submitting a request in this form to him.
I hope you will reconsider and we can work
something out. Please call me.
Many thanks.
Bureau Garry Sincerely Clifford Chief/People
(Still Sans Jane)
D
weekly
M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
Garry Clifford
Dear Mike:
I hate to bring you into this
again- - it is the third year I've done it,
But the assult from New York has begun.
As you are aware, we have had
a request into the Press office since
October for a proposal that George
Plimpton cover a day in the life of
President Reagan for our year-end
issue.
If you can have a tradition in
8 years of existence, then this is our
tradition. The magazine stays on the
stands for 2 weeks and is read by 43
million readers. We always lead with
an interview or story of the President
or First Lady.
Please help keep the tradition
alive by allowing Plimpton to write about
a day in the life of the First Family.
Details are in the enclosed xerox letter.
The latest we can possibly do it is in
the first week of December.
People
M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
Garry Clifford
Having raised three wild boys,
I can' t get Blair out of my mind.
I
pray everything goes well. I know how
upset you and Carolyn must be,
Sorry to hassle you at this time,
but the editors in New York are beginning
to get nervous.
Thanks for your help.
Regards,
Garry
People
TIME & LIFE BUILDING, ROCKEFELLER CENTER, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10020 (212) JU 6-1212
Managing Editor
October 7, 1982
Larry M. Speakes
Deputy Press Secretary
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. Speakes,
I was pleased to learn of your interest in our proposal for a major
story in PEOPLE's year-end double issue that would focus on a day
in the life of the President and Mrs. Reagan.
As you probably know, our year-end issue has traditionally opened
with an interview with the President, a tradition honored in the
past two years by Mr. Reagan. The story I have in mind for this
year would focus on Mr. Reagan again, but be cast in a slightly
different way. We have enlisted George Plimpton to write for
PEOPLE a narrative account of a day spent with the Reagans, to
include business meetings and personal moments to the fullest extent
possible. Our feeling is that such a story would contribute greatly
to an understanding of the human side of the Oval Office for PEOPLE's
audience of 43 million readers. The day chosen will, of course, be
at your discretion but I hope that we might be able to arrange a
date sometime in the last three weeks of November, and no later than
the first week of December. Plimpton has numerous commitments and
we, of course, face a deadline.
Incidentally, when I discussed this idea with George, he told me that
many years ago John Kennedy had once promised him he could run the
country for one day, and this is probably as close as George will
ever get.
I will be eager to hear from you, either directly or through our
Washington bureau, and before a date is irrevocably set, we will
arrange for George to contact you to make certain he has no scheduling
conflicts that cannot be resolved.
Sincerely,
Par Ryan
Patricia Ryan
CC: George Plimpton
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 19, 1982
don't like the
idea.
Mike:
How does this strike you?
his Larry
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 19, 1982
Dear Ms. Ryan:
Thanks so much for your request for George
Plimpton to interview the President. We
will put it among those requests for year-
end interviews and, when we develop the
President's schedule, we will be back in
contact with you.
Sincerely,
Larry Speakes
Deputy Press Secretary
to the President
Ms. Patricia Ryan
PEOPLE
Time & Life Building
Rockefeller Center
New York, New York 10020
People
TIME & LIFE BUILDING, ROCKEFELLER CENTER, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10020 (212) JU 6-1212
Managing Editor
October 14, 1982
Larry M. Speakes
Deputy Press Secretary
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. Speakes,
I was pleased to learn of your interest in our proposal for a major
story in PEOPLE's year-end double issue that would focus on a day
in the life of the President and Mrs. Reagan.
As you probably know, our year-end issue has traditionally opened
with an interview with the President, a tradition honored in the
past two years by Mr. Reagan. The story I have in mind for this
year would focus on Mr. Reagan again, but be cast in a slightly
different way. We have enlisted George Plimpton to write for
PEOPLE a narrative account of a day spent with the Reagans, to
include business meetings and personal moments to the fullest extent
possible. Our feeling is that such a story would contribute greatly
to an understanding of the human side of the Oval Office for PEOPLE's
audience of 43 million readers. The day chosen will, of course, be
at your discretion but I hope that we might be able to arrange a
date sometime in the last three weeks of November, and no later than
the first week of December. Plimpton has numerous commitments and
we, of course, face a deadline.
I will be eager to hear from you, either directly or through our
Washington bureau, and before a date is irrevocably set, we will
arrange for George to contact you to make certain he has no scheduling
conflicts that cannot be resolved.
Sincerely,
Parricea Ran
Patricia Ryan
CC: George Plimpton
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 10, 1982
210-957-9671
Mike --
In regard to the People/George Plimpton
year-end interview, I agree with your
assessment that it's not one we should
choose to do. As I recall, the President
and First Lady didn't think much of last
year's effort.
I'm turning it down and let's be on the
alert for an end run somewhere else on the
staff.
gel
cull
already, Gamy and
been
Its Seenena sie I her that "treay" the
People
TIME INC., M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006 (202) 293-4300
November 3, 1982
Dear Mike:
Congratulations to you on last night. The outcome
was much better than any of the gloom and doom pollesters
predicted. You must feel great!
I am enclosing tickets for you and Carolyn
to travel to New York for the Editorial luncheon
at the Time Life Bldg. on Wednesday, Nov. 10th. The
lunch on the 43rd floor will be hosted by Patricia Ryan,
our new Managing Editor, and Hal Wingo, our Assistant
Managing Editor for News. There will be about 10 other
Senior Editors there as well, including myself and another
Washington correspondent.
Everything is off the record. I assume the
questions will be about President and Mrs. Reagan, his
future, her feelings, your thoughts on the election
and how the administration will function for the next
two years. Basically, the editors who are staunch
New Yorkers, just want to be a bit more educated about
Washington, the White House and upcoming issues.
Since you plan to take the 8 a.m. shuttle, I'll
plan to be on it as well. We'll be met in New York
by Michael Ryan, an editor, who promises me a limo. We'll
drop you off at the Ritz and come back and pick you up
in time for the 12:30 luncheon. The lunch is scheduled for
two hours. The driver will drop you off at your next
appoitment and you 11 be free of People Magazine, for at
least the next two weeks.
Oh yes, one thing I'm sure Pat Ryan is going to ask
you about is our request to have George Plimpton do a story
on the President's day for our year-end issue.
Thant and the fact that I'm very grateful that
People
TIME INC., M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006 (202) 293-4300
you are coming--- are about all I ao know. At any
rate, I think it should be enjoyable and thank you.
Excuse the typos, our secretary is having a baby
today.
Looking forward to Wednesday.
Garry San Clifford
Sincerely
Do,
People
Cata Pen James
TIME INC., M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
(202) 293-4300
Mr. Michael K. Deaver
Deputy Chief of Staff
The White House
August 12, 1982
Dear Mike:
Our Managing Editor, Patricia Ryan, and
the other New York editors are so pleased that
you have accepted the invitation to come and be
grilled in New York.
As promised, I'll get back to Shirley Moore
after Labor Day, but Pat is wondering if you might
be free to come either on the 23rd or 30th of September.
Thursday are always down days for us, With the
congressional elections beginning to heat up, I don't
know how they are for you.
Thanks for accpeting and I'll be in touch
to work something out.
Sincerely,
ulcapachin?
garry clifford
People
M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
Garry Clifford
Dear Mike:
Enclosed are three of Stan's
pictures
more should be trickling
back in the next few weeks. I'll forward
them.
Shirley tells me that you and she
are trying to work out dates for a
New York Editorial luncheon visit. Thank
you. As mentioned any Wednesday or
Thursday in late Sept. or Oct. would be
great.
I'll be back in touch.
Best,
garry clifford
People
TIME INC., M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
(202) 293-4300
Mr. Michael K. Deaver
Deputy Chief of Staff
The White House
August 12, 1982
Dear Mike:
Our Managing Editor, Patricia Ryan, and
the other New York editors are so pleased that
you have accepted the invitation to come and be
grilled in New York.
As promised, I'll get back to Shirley Moore
after Labor Day, but Pat is wondering if you might
be free to come either on the 23rd or 30th of September
Thursday are always down days for us, With the
congressional elections beginning to heat up, I don't
know how they are for you.
possible
Thanks for accpeting and I'll be in touch
to work something out.
Needner
Sincerely,
get. possible. andate oet is that 21 toolate garry any clifford
is
People
Hold
Called
BM
TIME INC., M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006 (202) 293-4300
Shiry wis do.
August 2, 1982
Dear Mike:
Patricia Ryan, our new managing editor,
has asked me to extend an invitation to you to
come to New York for an editorial luncheon with
our People Magazine Editors. The luncheons, in
the Time-Life Building , are a new innovation at
People, and will be run along the same lines of
the Time Editorial luncheons, which you, and other
members of the White House staff have attended.
Only difference is---you are her first
choice out of Washington. Basically everything is
off the record, and editors will just ask you
questions about the President and Mrs. Reagan,
the White House, and of course the upcoming
campaign. I'll buy the tickets and accompany you
up if you can make it. We would like to do it
anytime preferably on a Wednesday from the middle
of September onwards. I know the campaign is going
to make you very busy, but I would appreciate it
if you would consider it. (If that doesn't work,
how about considering letting me set up a luncheon
in the Corporate Suite at the Hay Adams and they
People
TIME INC., M.P.A. BLDG., 888 16TH ST., N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006 (202) 293-4300
can come down here to meet you)
?
Having just written about your 50 invitations
a week, I'm reluctant to add to the group, but
the Editors are anxious to hear from you and I
hope we can work it out. I'll call Shirley next
week.
Incidentally, I received a lovely note
from Carolyn. That's unusual in Washington.
Obviously she has a ways to go before she becomes
a native!
Sincerely,
Garry Clifford
D
I
THE WHITE HOUSE
Mm.
WASHINGTON
Nov. 8, 1982
Dear Mike:
2 did not write that portion of The
Times story today referring to Ed Meise,
nor did I know is was going to appear.
2 have demanded that my name be
removed from any story that cantains
reports of which I was nov The author.
Suncerely
Jury offery
888 SIXTEENTH STREET, N. W.
TIME
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
EDITORIAL OFFICES
THE WEEKLY NEWSMAGAZINE
202-293-4300
file
Nov. 10, 1982
Mike Deaver
Deputy Chief of Staff
The White House
Washington D.C.
Dear Mike,
Now's our chance to do the President Reagan version of the "Sadat
in front of the Pyramid's" photograph.
I'm sure you'll recall my request two years ago to do a picture of
the President up near the Iwo Jima Memorial with Washington in the
background (the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the
Capitol stacked up in a row over his shoulder).
TIME wants to do the picture now, if possible, for a cover story
they're planning to close Nov. 26.
Weather is going to be a factor--it has to be a sunny day, and the
picture should be taken around 4 p.m. My suggestion is we try it either
Sunday Nov. 14 or as a back-up date Sunday Nov. 21.
The President shouldn't have to be on location more than fifteen
minutes, and it's an area that can be strictly controlled.
If ever there was an opportunity to show the President's feet
planted firmly in Washington D.C. soil, this is it.
CC: Mark Weinberg
PS. Thisis for the cover
With Deaver
THE WHITE HOUSE
Marty M-15 Feldstin
WASHINGTON
November 9, 1982
who can wee use nube
MEMORANDUM FOR: MRS. REAGAN
FROM:
MUFFIE BRANDON milfir Brondon
SUBJECT:
SUPPORTIVE ECONOMIST ON CBS MORNING NEWS
This morning I happened to watch a distinguished economist named
Charles Reeder being interview by Mary Ellen Quinn and Diane Sawyer.
He was very strongly supportive of the President's economic philosophy
and program, and said that he felt the economy was indeed showing
strong signs of recovery and I thought that you and the President
might like to know about this and if the President missed seeing
this interview it might be something he or one of his staff might
like to view. It was really an outstanding endorsement from a
very respected man.
I saw this too - he Loss
good 6 supportion 1 . 1 do you
know him?
CC: ERollins Dgergen
THE WHITE HOUSE
D Fischer
WASHINGTON
M. GOODE
W, NEWKEL
October 15, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR Michael K. Deaver
SUBJECT:
October 14th Teleconferencing Session
During the teleconferencing session on October 14th at the
U.S. Chamber of Commerce studios the following occurred:
1. The President's rehersal was carried on the monitors
in the press area for a few minutes until turned off by
Mark Weinberg.
2. The teleprompter was not under the control of WHCA
and the operator had to be instructed to rewind the
script a few minutes before air time.
3. The President was not fully briefed so he would know
when there would be breaks in the live coverage so he
could refer to his notes or take a drink of water.
4. The volume on the speakers needed to be adjusted/
adjustable so the President could hear the questions at
all times.
5. The cards were redone at the last minute which caused
them to be unclear. The President mistook the cards re-
ference to the questioner to be a reference to the candidate
conducting the fundraiser.
OHIO -- Congressman Del Latta
30 TV
This is President Ronald Reagan and I have a
with
PRESIDENT REAGAN
SPEAKING:
a message for the people of the Fifth
District about their Congressman Del Latt
When I assumed office in January
1981, your government was overspending,
overtaxing, and over regulating. We
have made real progress since then in all
three areas thanks to leaders in the
Congress like Del Latta. For example,
when our tax reduction package is fully
implemented on July 1st of next year,
every person's income taxes will have
been decreased by 25 percent. This
tremendous income tax reduction would
if
not have been possible had your Congress-
hadn't
man, Del Latta not lead the successful
fight in the House last year and again
this year to reduce unnecessary govern-
ment spending. Fewer taxes mean $ more
dollars for you to spend as you see fit,
thereby creating permanent jobs for all
Americans. The country needs more
)
counts
Congressmen like Del Latta and I Pm sure
to
on you will re-elect him.
New Hampshire -- Sununu for Governor
:60 TV
PRESIDENT REAGAN TALKING
I'd like to speak to the people of New
ON CAMERA.
Hampshire about on on two issues facing their state,
two issues I know something about:
government spending and taxes.
There are those who say that state
governments can't balance their budgets.
And there are those who say that higher
taxes are inevitable.
Let doesn't have to be that way.
But the current Governor that of New
Hampshire hasn't learned those lessons
yet. And unless New Hampshire changes
governors, a state income tax -- or a
sales tax -- is as inevitable as New
England's trees changing colors this fall.
That's why New Hampshire needs John
Sununu as Governor -- to solve the state's
fiscal problems without raising taxes.
I know John Sununu. I respect him.
He'll be a Governor New Hampshire can be
proud of.
Alaska -- Tom Fink for Governor
:30 TV
Tom Fink shares my own faith in
PRESIDENT REAGAN TALKING
ON CAMERA.
the law of supply and demand
And Alaska can supply alot of
what our nation is demanding.
For example: getting the natural
gas pipeline underway from the
North Slope was the first thing
he mentioned in our talk in the
Oval Office.
the pipeline
Fairbanks needs it, Alaska
needs it, and our country needs
it. If I lived in Alaska, I'd
be voting for Tom Fink for
Governor.
BROWN FOR GOVERNOR
TV-30
"REAGAN"
AUDIO
VIDEO
RR: You have an opportunity to elect
RR in Oval Office,
a strong leader as Governor of
sitting at desk,
Ohio this year.
talking head.
Clarence Brown is one of the
Super (remove after
most effective leaders in
several seconds) :
President Ronald Reagan
Congress. He's good at
building coalitions that cut
across party lines. He's good
at making tough decisions.
Clarence Brown has a proven
record of accomplishment for
Ohio. His work has created or
saved thousands of jobs in your
state.
I hope you'l 11 vote for Clarence
Brown. Because there's no doubt
what he'll do for Ohio.
Logo with disclaimer.
South Carolina -- Hartnett for Congress
: 30 TV
PRESIDENT REAGAN TALKING
Those of you who live in the low-
ON CAMERA.
country of South Carolina have a
special reason to be proud. Your
Congressman- Tommy Hartnett--has
become a leader in the fight for
sound,
conservative government in Washington.
I know I don't have to tell you what
a fine fellow Tommy Hartnett is.
You know that as well as I do. But
I would like to say this: On the
first Tuesday of November, you' 11
be serving your country well by
casting your vote for the re-election
of your Congressman, Tommy Hartnett.
Thank you.
Montana -- Knorr for U.S. Senate
: 30 TV
PRESIDENT REAGAN TALKING
I need North Dakota's help on
ON CAMERA.
election day. Your vote can have
our
an important role in my economic
recovery program. We can't go back
Bankrupt the past
to the policies of bankruptcy. That's
why I'm asking you to vote for Gene
Knorr. Gene is a fourth-generation
North Dakotan, and he knows better
than anyone the problems facing
farmers and small businessmen today.
Gene and I have worked together in
Washington. He's a good Republican.
He's a good, fine, fourth-generation North
Dakotan. He'll make an outstanding
Senator. And North Dakota needs
just that.
Missouri -- Congressman Wendell Bailey
:30 TV
PRESIDENT REAGAN TALKING
I want to talk with you about
ON CAMERA.
Congressman Wendell Bailey. Wendell
and I have differed on various pro-
grams but we both agree on the follow direc-
tion and course this nation must GO.
From the people, a leader has emerged.
Wendell Bailey is giving the 4th
District AM decisive leadership to
overcome the problems facing our
country and the resolve to move with
confidence into the future. Wendell
is in touch with the realities of
Main Street and the people. I urge
you to keep a strong voice from the
4th District in the U.S. Congress by
and vote ing for Wendell Bailey.
Wyoming -- Warren Morton for Governor
: 30 TV
PRESIDENT REAGAN TALKING
I'd like to speak to you behalf of
ON CAMERA.
an exceptional Wyoming leader, Warren
Morton. Warren has the management skill
and the new ideas a growing, building
state like Wyoming needs. I was
governor of a western state for two
terms myself, and I know the critical
challenge you face on water development.
Warren Morton is the kind of fresh,
tough leader who can step in and get
the job done.
Governments, and governors, wear
out. That's what makes new leaders,
with new energy, so vital. I hope
you'll join me in supporting Warren
Morton.
Alabama -- Emory Folmar for Governor
:30 TV
PRESDIENT REAGAN TALKING
On November 2nd, Alabama will
ON CAMERA.
choose a new governor. I don't
involve myself in every political
race, but I want the people of
Alabama to know that I have worked
with Emory Folmar and my door
is always open to him. Emory is
an honest, fair-minded and dedicated
man. He's a worker who can get
things done in Alabama.
and
in Washington.
He will be the strong, active
leader Alabama needs in the 80's.
Your vote for Folmar will help
get Alabama working.
Idaho -- Batt for Governor
: 30 TV
PRESIDENT REAGAN TALKING
Many of my Idaho friends have
ON CAMERA.
heard of "New Federalism". That's
just another name for returning
and resources
a number of government programs to
the people of Idaho.
where I
.
know you'll do a much better job
handling them than the federal
government. That's why I need Phil
Batt elected Governor of Idaho.
He's enthusiastic about helping me
return control to the states.
where it really belongs. With
Phil's brand of leadership we
really can get Idaho working again.
On November 2nd go to Batt for
Idaho.
Thank you.
New Mexico -- John Irick for Governor
: 30 TV
PRESIDENT REAGAN TALKING
New Mexicans have a very important
ON CAMERA.
decision to make November 2nd.
The people will elect a new
Governor. John Irick is a man
I trust.
.a man I count on.
.
John Irick has the honesty, the
experience, and the willingness
New Mexico
to work hard to bring this state
exciting new opportunity.
This November, vote for
a man I know as a friend, who'll
be a Governor we can trust!
Vote for John Irick.
Thank you.
10/8/78
ROBIN BEARD
U.S. SENATE
TENNESSEE
Television Script
PRESIDENT REAGAN:
The voters of Tennessee have a very important
choice to make when you decide who will represent
you in the U.S. Senate for the next 6 years.
Robin Beard has spent 10 years in the Congress
fighting for the kind of fiscal responsibility
this government of ours has to have. He's a
man you and I can count on to fight for a
balanced budget, lower government spending,
and to reduce inflation.
Robin has proven he'll stand up for what he
believes. As a matter of fact, he's proven
it to me a couple of times recently.
I hope you'll send Robin Beard to the Senate
on November 2. It will help me, it will help
Tennessee and it will help our country.
***
Laurence I. Barrett
TIME
Dear Michael,
Sept 27 till
Now that 147 phone messages have
failed to arouse a response, I resort to the
written word. If RR every returned your glasses,
perhaps you will read it.
Shirley tells me that you are
boycotting me until some hallowed time when you
have resolved the requests pending from
prehistoric conversations. I can well understand
why you would feel guilty about leaving me dangling
on those important items. In fact I am suffering
rapid weight loss, sudden graying of my famous
chestnut mop and other symptoms of atrophy as
a result of your dereliction of duty to OUR
literary cause.
However, since I last saw you on
AUGUST 17th, other questions have arisen, some
involving you personally. IF must speak to you
about them regardless of where we stand on other
matters. I am also at the point where I need a
firm fix on a couple of "arrangement" questions.
I have roughly two months left before I do the
final polishing of this epic. Before then I
must still do eight chapters from scratch. For
you to bug out on me now (not to mention Bill's
ving gone AWOL) is something of a disaster. I
as going to call it "Mike & Ronnie," but I'm
seriously reconsidering that.
I think Shirley has my phone number.
Washington, Lany D.C.
TIME
888 16th Street, N'W.
20006
CBS
NEWS
A Division of CBS Inc.
Television City
file
7800 Beverly Boulevard
Los Angeles, California 90036
(213)852-2202
Dear Mike:
You are about as kind a man as there ever was. Croft and
Angela were in awe. Judy and I were deeply honored. And
along with wonderful, cynical Plante, we are all extremely
grateful. Very simply, thank you a great deal for that lunch
right there and for the tour of those hallowed quarters that
followed. Shirley Moore was as kind as you. Please extend
our appreciation.
You never know about teenagers, but I suspect that experience
was as moving for them as my visit to those very places was
in the Truman years when I was their age. A friend of my
father's, Matt Connely, held a position about equal to yours
and similary invited a then young and a then middle aged
Drinkwater by. I know, looking back, that afternoon in the
inner White House was of profound influence on me. I took
every course in government from then through graduate school.
And, as you know, politics and public policy have been my
prime interests in the news business for the past twenty-five
years. This little reflection on the parallel of you and Matt
and Drinkwaters should stop right there. (He ended up in jail.
Something having to do with giving away more than jelly beans
at the White House!)
Again, thank you.
Regards,
Terry Terry Drinkwater
Correspondent
cc: Bill Plante
Terrell C. Drinkwater
Mr. Mike Deaver
Assistant to the President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500
September 23, 1982
THE RISE OF JIM BAKER
The Classic Washington Story
of Shrewdness and Diplomacy
By Jack W. Germond and Jules Witcover
n a political system that gives its
consensus now is that the up man is James
was given his job largely on the rec-
I
citizens the opportunity to throw the
A. Baker Ш, the 52-year-old lawyer from
ommendation of Deaver, California po-
rascals out at regular intervals, and
Houston and the manager of the losing
litical consultant Stuart Spencer, and
in which some are irregularly eased
presidential campaigns of Gerald R. Ford
Nancy Reagan. All three had come to
out as well, the game of who's up and
and George Bush. Only twenty months
respect and like Baker for his post-con-
who's down is always being played. A
ago, Baker was seen by many as the least
vention role in the 1980 campaign, cul-
year ago, White House counselor Edwin
likely to survive in the tight inner circle
minating as Reagan negotiator for the
Meese was definitely up. He was called,
of California Reaganites. But now the
debate with Jimmy Carter that helped
in an excess that seems ludicrous now,
reigning cliché of Washington is that Jim
cement Reagan's credibility as a presi-
'the Deputy President.'
Baker has become the first among equals
dential candidate. By demonstrating his
This year. according to most of the
around Ronald Reagan. Baker, a man
ability and, of equal importance. his fealty
game-players. Meese is definitely down-
who practices diplomacy as if it were a
to the man he twice tried to beat out of
undermined by personal foibles and
religion, prefers to acknowledge only that
the Republican nomination, Baker man-
structural adjustments in the much-bal-
"I believe I'm an equal among equals,
aged to win a place with Reagan-de-
lyhooed Meese-Deaver-Baker troika,
and that wasn't the case, I don't think,
spite a drumbeat of protests from the
which since the transfer of William Clark
when we started out."
anti-Bush paranoiacs of the New Right
from the State Department to the White
For one thing, the personal chemistry
who saw, and still see, him as a middle-
House has become a chetverka (our thanks
between Reagan and Meese, and be-
road Mata Hari.
to Tass's Washington bureau).
tween Reagan and Michael Deaver,
"I hope what I've done,' Baker says,
With Meese down, but not out, the
wasn't there for Baker at the outset. He
"is do a good job for the President in
144 The Washingtonian/October 1982
DAVID
the areas he's entrusted to my charge,
animals are equal, but some are more
current up status: "Anytime you're get-
and convince him and others of my loy-
equal than others. Administration insid-
ting any good publicity in this business,
alty to him. I don't think he questions
ers argue that in specific areas Deaver
you're getting some bad." And a White
that, notwithstanding some of the stuff
and Clark carry more weight than does
House colleague of Baker's puts it an-
Viguerie and Lofton tend to put out."
Baker-Deaver on matters concerning
other way: "His competence and ability
(The July issue of Conservative Digest,
the personal involvement of the Rea-
are getting to the point where they're
published by direct-mail expert Richard
gans, and Clark on national security-
creating problems for him. When you
Viguerie and edited by right-wing po-
but that Meese hardly ever does on any-
overshadow others and start getting good
lemicist John Lofton, was a broadside
thing and that Baker exerts the most
ink, it can be trouble. When Baker gets
against both Reagan and Baker and in
across-the-board influence. At the same
a good story and Meese gets a bad one,
effect charged that Baker was running
time, these insiders say that the who's-
Baker gets blamed for both." When Baker
the administration. Included was a copy
was listed earlier this year among the ten
of the letter to Reaganites around the
most important Americans in a US News
country from Clymer Wright, Reagan's
& World Report poll, this insider says,
1980 campaign finance chairman in
Baker managed to win
"Baker cringed." (Baker was ranked
Texas, demanding Baker's resigna-
a place with Reagan
seventh, Meese fifth-a result that would
tion-a demand Reagan conspicuously
be different today). Another White House
dismissed in a direct reply to Wright.)
despite a drumbeat of
source says: "It's almost an impossible
Baker's standing with the Californians
protests from the
situation. Because of the structure here,
enjoyed a boost in March 1981 after the
if Baker succeeds it's almost of necessity
assassination attempt against the Presi-
anti-Bush paranoiacs
at his [Meese's] expense, and that's not
dent, wherein the troika moved adroitly
of the New Right.
good for Baker
to be called first
to demonstrate that the reins of govern-
among equals."
ment remained effectively in Reagan's
One insider talks of "the invisible
hands. On Baker's recommendation, the
hand" at work in the White House that
troika and the Cabinet agreed that the
up-who's-down game, and the way the
inevitably takes a whack at whoever is
25th Amendment providing for the Vice
Washington news media plays on it, ov-
up at the time. What happens is that lower-
President to take over as acting President
ersimplifies the power equation in the
level aides who see the individual under
not be invoked, demonstrating to the
Reagan White House. "All the Baker
whom they work getting a bad press start
Californians that, among other things,
stuff is in part a reaction to a long-over-
sniping at the one who seems to be ben-
Jim Baker was not trying to paddle George
due correction of the press saying Meese
efiting most. That is what has occurred
Bush's canoe. Baker, Meese, and Deaver
was something he never was-Deputy
involving Meese and Baker. Also, sev-
made a point of going together to the
President," one staffer observes. "And
eral White House insiders say, the re-
hospital every morning the President re-
now the press is beginning to over-cor-
sentment of pure Reaganites on the staff
mained there-and being televised to
rect in the other direction."
that outsider Baker and people around
America doing so-to show that his team
It is also prudent to keep in mind that
him are even there, let alone perceived
was on the job. Baker says now: "We've
being up is not an unmitigated boon and
as being on the rise in influence, makes
taken a situation nobody thought would
that expressions of modesty by Baker
being labeled first among equals peril-
work, frankly, and we've made it work."
and his supporters have in them elements
ous. And by the same token, those aboard
of self-preservation. Former Reagan
who did not have the early Reagan con-
Now it is probably fair to say of Baker's
campaign manager John Sears, who was
nections look down on the others as per-
modest assessment of his equality that,
riding high in the press before his sudden
sons whose loyalty to Reagan, not their
with apologies to George Orwell, all the
1980 fall from grace, says of Baker's
competence, is the key to their presence.
11/12/00
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President Reagan meets in the Oval Office with his troika of
/
the
key aides: Jim Baker, Mike Deaver, and Ed Meese. At right is
or
En
the
by
1
office
the memo of understanding initialed by Baker and Meese
setting out their authorities and responsibilities.
Specifically, the contrast between
ments.' In practice, paper flow goes
discretions in the Atlantic Monthly forced
Baker and his staff and Meese and his
through one of the two deputy chiefs of
him to duck the limelight. and the public
staff in terms of sheer organization has
staff: Reagan's schedule and appoint-
and congressional role fell increasingly
been glaring, and often mentioned to
ments go through Deaver, and the rest
to Baker, who by 1982 clearly spoke for
Meese's detriment. "Jim tends to be ac-
through Richard Darman, another New
the President. And because Baker's Leg-
tion-oriented and pragmatic," one rank-
Right target as a former Elliot Richard-
islative Strategy Group was taking a big
ing staffer says. "Ed tends to be less
son aide.
bite into the domestic policy area, he was
action-oriented, less pragmatic, more
inevitably working Meese's side of the
conservative and ideological." And an-
This allocation of functions seems fair
street as well as his own.
other puts it more bluntly: "Baker gets
enough, or did at the outset. But in im-
Under the memo agreement, Baker also
things done." Such talk is not helpful to
plementation, Baker has emerged much
controls the White House press operation
Baker, who goes out of his way to praise
the more equal animal. A critical reason
(under former Bush aide David Gergen
Meese. "He's a joy to work with," Baker
has been the development of the White
as director of communications and Larry
will tell you. "He's a very straight-
House-and Baker's office-as the nerve
Speakes as acting press secretary); in-
shooting, honest, frank person who
center of legislative strategy. Baker chairs
tergovernmental relations-liaison with
doesn't play games. If he tells you he's
the frequent meetings of the Legislative
the governors and mayors (under Rich
going to do something, he'll do it."
Strategy Group that has come to be the
Williamson, one of the more efficient
Baker also makes the point that the
architect of the Reagan administration's
and effective conservative True Believ-
terms of the Meese-Baker working re-
greatest successes on Capitol Hill, with
ers); the political-affairs office (under Ed
lationship were carefully worked out be-
strong cooperation from the Republican
Rollins, a Reaganite with a very limited
tween them and committed to paper in
leaders in Congress. Darman coordinates
mandate); the private-sector outreach op-
a memorandum that both signed two
the group's work, and regular members
eration (under Baker admirer Elizabeth
weeks after Reagan's election, and that
are Meese, Deaver, congressional liai-
Dole); and the Republican National
the memo's terms have been assiduously
son chief Kenneth Duberstein, and Cab-
Committee (with his agent, former Bush
adhered to. It gave Meese Cabinet rank
inet secretary Craig Fuller.
aide Rich Bond, installed as deputy
as counselor to the President for policy
Cabinet members, and particularly
chairman and de facto operating head for
(now narrowed to domestic policy with
Budget Director David Stockman and
the thin-ice-skating chairman, Dick
the addition of Clark as national-security
Secretary of the Treasury Donald Regan,
Richards). And on top of all this, Baker
overseer with direct access to Reagan
also take part. All through 1981, Stock-
is the acknowledged chief political strat-
along with the original Big Three). Baker
man, as a former member of the House
egist of the administration. If he is not
was to run the White House staff. in-
and the resident budgetary wizard, was
the first among equals now, nobody is.
cluding "coordination and control of all
the most visible salesman of the eco-
It is not simply, either, that Baker's
in-and-out paper flow to the President
nomic recovery legislation that domi-
responsibilities turned out to be more im-
and of presidential schedule and appoint-
nated the domestic agenda. But his in-
portant than those of the other kingpins.
By nearly all testimony, Baker has out-
performed the others. Among other things,
THE PERSONAL JIM BAKER
he is the White House staff's most deft
dealer with the news media. He devel-
oped solid relationships with many re-
James A. Baker III was born in Hous-
porters during the Ford, Bush, and Rea-
ton on April 28, 1930. He grew up
gan campaigns, and a mutual respect exists
there, leaving in 1948 to attend Prince-
that Baker is not above exploiting through
ton University, from which he gradu-
well-placed, well-timed leaks that serve
ated in 1952. After college he served
the President's ends-and, on occasion,
for two years as a lieutenant in the Ma-
his own. But he knows when not to talk,
rine Corps. Baker then entered the Uni-
too. During the "Gang of 17" negoti-
versity of Texas law school and earned
ations on the budget earlier this year,
a JD degree with honors upon gradu-
Baker was the eyes and ears for the Pres-
ation in 1957. After law school, Baker
ident in closed sessions with congres-
joined the Houston law firm of An-
sional leaders. He declared a moratorium
drews & Kurth. He continued to prac-
on contacts with reporters to make sure
tice law there until he left the firm in
he would be safe from suspicions on the
1981 to become President Reagan's chief
Hill that he was leaking.
of staff. Baker's first wife, Mary, died
One other ingredient in Baker's suc-
of cancer in February 1970. He married
cess has been Reagan's own modus op-
Susan, his present wife, on August 6,
erandi-as a delegator of functions and
1973, bringing his four children and
responsibilities. Under such a President,
her three under the same roof. Three
who is himself new to the ways of Wash-
years ago, they had their eighth, Mary
ington, the job of White House chief of
Bonner.
staff is seen inside the mansion and out-
Although not an avid fan of spectator
side as more powerful that it was under,
sports, Baker leads an active life. He
say, Jimmy Carter, whose reputation for
still finds time for turkey shooting,
trying to do everything himself was well
fishing, and tennis. Baker's favorite
known: or even under Gerald Ford, whose
foods include fresh vegetables, sushi,
legislative experience was extensive. For
and, above all, wild game. He now
all the protestations, Ronald Reagan con-
lives in the Foxhall Road area in the
tinues to bear the reputation of a man
District.
-ROBERT G. KESTER
who seldom bothers to search out the fine
print, who would much rather have
1089
Mike Deaver, Jim Baker, and Ed Meese continue to have breakfast every morning at 7:30 in Baker's office.
National-security adviser Bill Clark could attend the breakfast but chooses not to.
someone else do his homework for him
a way of paring the federal deficit. Baker
ing, while ignoring the kind of advocacy
and then tell him which of the multiple-
says now he made a mistake going public
the New Right would like to see from
choice answers to check off.
on it, because the President ruled oth-
the chief of staff for the social issues
erwise. He says he had just returned from
they believe won for Reagan in 1980 and
Baker and the others around Reagan nat-
vacation and was not aware that admin-
are the key to his reelection in 1984.
urally balk at that reading of their boss,
istration signals had been changed. Rep-
Viguerie asks: "Is he getting up in the
and Baker bends over backward to deny
resentative Dick Cheney of Wyoming,
morning thinking, 'What six things can
that he is anything more than an imple-
Ford's White House chief of staff and
I do to get the abortion amendment
menter of the President's desires. In the
now chairman of the House Republican
passed?' Or, 'What six things can I do
"Gang of 17" negotiations, Baker re-
Policy Committee, says: "That was one
to get prayer back in the schools?' Vi-
peatedly informed the congressional
of the few cases where Jim made a mis-
guerie admits that Reagan probably
leaders that he was participating strictly
take. Instead of being an honest broker,
doesn't ask himself those questions either,
as a helpmate and that he had no au-
he became a public advocate of a posi-
but he argues that a man in Baker's po-
thority to make any deal on behalf of
tion. But to my knowledge, he hasn't
sition ought to be pressing them on the
Reagan. "He never hinted he could take
done it again."
President. (Such policies are, however,
a little more out of here or there," says
Still, Baker continues to be recognized
in Meese's area of responsibility.)
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Bob
as an advocate of deeper defense cuts
Baker himself says of his role as ad-
Dole. "He wasn't selling any snake oil."
down the road, although he formally plays
vocate: "I don't think the President wants
Nevertheless, there is evidence that within
the good soldier and supports this and
a bunch of yes-men around him. I think
the White House-and on occasion on
all other presidential decisions. "I know
the President wants you to give him your
Capitol Hill-Baker is a strong advocate
he's an advocate," says a ranking Re-
best judgment on a particular issue,
for positions that are not yet the
publican leader in the Senate. "If he isn't,
whether he agrees with it or not. I don't
President's.
I've been wasting a lot of my time."
consider myself as one who has deeply
The prime example is in defense
It is the fear of such advocacy that so
held views on specific issues. I happen,
spending. Last year, Baker told White
worries the New Right. Viguerie is con-
for instance, to favor a strong defense.
house reporters in California that the de-
vinced that Jim Baker works overtime
But, more than that, I favor making sure
fense budget would have to be cut $20
leaking material to the press that can make
that the President's program works. And
billion to $30 billion over three years as
the case for deeper cuts in military spend-
Consinued OR page 184
October 1982/The Washingtonian 147
convention delegate-counter-head-
hunter in the trade-during the 1976 pri-
maries and caucuses. The more plausible
explanation for his rise is that there is a
therefore I feel free suggesting to the
confidence and shrewdness about him
President that he might want to make a
unhampered by arrogance or self-decep-
cut here or there, or that he might want
tion, and tempered with a feel for the
to raise some revenue so that the over-
sensitivities of situations and people that
riding goal of success with the economy
is found in the best diplomats. Jim Baker
can be achieved. I see my role here as
is a man not afraid to reach high, but at
an implementer and making sure that we
the same time not likely to overreach
have something that works. I'm willing,
himself. Among the Reaganites, he has
for instance, to recommend to the Pres-
managed to be tough and deferential at
ident that he give up 15 percent up on
the same time-attributes associated with
the Hill in a particular area in order to
Reagan himself.
get 85 percent." A case in point, he says,
was Dole's $98 billion tax-increase bill,
Yet the New Right types are not the only
which he helped persuade Reagan to ac-
ones who can see that Baker is not per-
cept on grounds that it was necessary to
fect. As the chief political operative in
get further spending cuts through Con-
the White House, he has had some major
gress cut the deficit to make his
political boners laid at his feet. And while
economic program work." That one,
they may not have been directly his fault.
predictably, sent supply-side True Be-
he takes the heat. He acknowledges the
lievers up the wall as pure Reaganomics
mistakes but says they "slipped through
heresy.
the political catcher's mitt.' He says the
In his letter to Clymer Wright de-
mechanism has been tightened to prevent
fending Baker, Reagan wrote: "Clymer,
recurrences.
I'm in charge and my people are helping
The biggest blooper was the decision
to carry out the policies I set. No, we
in early 1981 to unveil with little warning
don't get everything we want, and, yes,
a scheme to reform Social Security by.
we do have to compromise. But we have
among other things. trimming benefits
to see that the percentage we get is worth
of those who took early retirement. If
more than the compromise we have to
there is one issue above all others on
accept. So far it has been.
There
which Ronald Reagan is vulnerable, it
has not been one single instance of Jim
is Social Security. In 20 years of cam-
Baker doing anything but what I settle
paigning, he has given America's elderly
on as our policy."
repeated shock treatments on the ques-
Whatever the limits of Baker's influ-
tion, to the point that his very mention
ence with Reagan. there is little dispute
of the subject is a political negative. Baker
that he is in a position to speak for the
and others in the White House knew that,
President in many areas-and seldom is
but failed to shoot the proposal down.
hesitant to do so, with a dispatch seldom
The explanation offered is that it came
seen in bureaucratic Washington. "He's
up through the Department of Health and
one of the few men here," says Howard
Human Services and the Office of Man-
Baker, "with whom I can carry on a 30-
agement and Budget, and the political
second conversation." And Bob Dole
types at the White House were not plugged
says: "He's not assuming jurisdiction he
in until the eleventh hour. Also, the Leg-
doesn't have, but he can make decisions.
islative Strategy Group had just been cre-
You get an answer." Dole's wife, Eliz-
ated and was bypassed-a procedure, it
abeth, who reports to Jim Baker in her
is said now, that could never happen to-
White House outreach job, adds: "He
day.
doesn't massage something to death. He
The second big blooper was the de-
goes to the bottom line; he understands
cision, hatched in the Justice Department
the politics, the dynamics. He makes a
and not requiring direct presidential ac-
decision and moves on."
tion, to lift the bar against tax-exempt
Baker's success in the Reagan hier-
status for Bob Jones University and other
archy often is attributed to his Washing-
private schools that practice racial dis-
ton experience among a group that came
crimination. That one, too, is said to
here with very little of it. It is true that
have procedurally escaped the political
he was undersecretary of Commerce in
screen. So did such horrendous decisions
the Ford administration, but that was
as the appointment of B. Sam Hart, the
hardly a front-rank post. And it is said
black radio evangelist from Philadelphia
he has broad political experience, but
with a record of hostility toward civil-
one political associate observes that Baker
rights aims, to the Civil Rights Com-
the patrician lawyer "doesn't know pre-
mission. And more recently there was
cincts, he's not street-smart." And he
the Labor Department bid to ease child-
didn't dip his toe into national politics
labor laws to permit teenagers in fast-
until he was recruited by his old Com-
food restaurants and other such jobs to
merce boss, Rogers Morton, to be Ford's
work longer hours-at a time of sky-high
unemployment. The department soon
realities after the elections and acquiesce
backed off, but it was incredible that
sooner or later to much larger defense
such a notion could be advanced in a
cuts. And if so, Weinberger will be a
congressional-election year with orga-
roadblock. "Cap may wind up being one
nized labor already up in arms.
of the biggest political liabilities in this
These politically embarrassing epi-
administration," he says. "He's got his
sodes have led some to suggest that Baker
feet in cement on this one." And of the
has too much on his plate and that the
pressures being caused by Reagan's in-
White House badly needs a full-time po-
sistence on an accelerated military buildup
litical wise man to sit back and appraise
at a time of a rising deficit, he adds: ''It's
the purely political ramifications of all
like watching the pressure on the San
administration actions. There was an at-
Andreas Fault begin to crack up."
tempt, in fact, to have Stuart Spencer
That pressure is being felt by everyone
take the job, but he declined. Baker's
in the Reagan administration, James A.
view is that the political operation has
Baker III included. So, for all his in-
been shored up and that overall the po-
sistence that he is at Ronald Reagan's
litical batting average has been good.
service indefinitely, it could be over to
Spencer comes in periodically to consult
the Pentagon or some other command
with Baker and others, and regular meet-
post, or out, for him next year. As for
ings are held with pollsters Richard
the talk that he is looking for a stepping
Wirthlin, Bob Teeter, and Arthur Finkel-
stone to elective office, Baker says his
stein to help in avoiding political pitfalls.
losing race for attorney general in Texas
Baker even sits in on National Security
in 1978 was enough for him. "I don't
Council meetings to provide a domestic
think I'd ever want to do that again."
political perspective to foreign-policy
But he adds: "I'd never rule it out. Nor
decisions.
does he intend to get out of politics al-
In all, Jim Baker presents the picture
together.
of a man carrying a very heavy load, but
"Politics is too much fun," he says.
not showing any great strains. Some
"I've always thought when the time came
around him worry that he may burn out,
I'd go back to Texas. But I'm sufficiently
but he insists he is more relaxed now that
bitten by the political bug that I would
he feels accepted by Reagan and the other
want to keep my oar in some way."
Californians at the top. He has a partic-
ularly good and close relationship with
Whatever Ronald Reagan decides to do,
his nearby neighbor, Deaver-an im-
it is certain that Jim Baker will not have
portant element in his acceptance into
to read the help-wanted ads. Republican
the inner circle. In fact, one White House
candidates, including his old friend Bush,
insider says: "Baker could not be effec-
will line up asking him to run their cam-
tive without Deaver. The thing Baker
paigns, in 1988 if not in 1984. And if
lacked, a longtime relationship with Rea-
he doesn't get a Cabinet post under Rea-
gan, Deaver has. And Deaver knows that
gan in 1983 or later, then he might well
Baker acts in the President's best inter-
under some Republican after Reagan. Fi-
est." Reportedly it was Deaver who first
nally. there is even the suggestion that
brought the Clymer Wright letter to Rea-
he might have his eye on the Oval Office.
gan's attention and urged a sharp. re-
"Ridiculous," Jim Baker says.
sponse, which, when it was written,
And so it goes in the Washington game
Deaver promptly passed out to the press.
of who's up and who's down. White
House chiefs of staff as a group have
With more than two years still to go in
seldom stayed up in politics after leav-
Reagan's term, speculation has already
ing: Jack Watson, Hamilton Jordan, Don
begun about Baker's future. He insists
Rumsfeld, Al Haig. Bob Haldeman-all
that it is his intention to "do whatever
candidates for the where-are-they-now
the President wants me to do"-includ-
columns. Only Cheney has gone on to a
ing, specifically, staying on as chief of
relatively modest political career on his
staff for two more years, or six if Reagan
own. "It's easy to lose sight of the fact
runs again and wins. He acknowledges
that you're there as a hired gun,' Cheney
he might like to run a department of his
says of being the White House chief of
own, and he once told some reporters he
staff. "But in the long run, if you want
wouldn't mind being CIA director. Most
to do something. you have to go out and
speculation, however, has centered on
run, put your name on the ballot."
Defense and Justice, and one insider sug-
Jim Baker has been around politics
gests that circumstances might compel a
long enough now to know the wisdom
shake-up after the November congres-
of Cheney's observation. So perhaps he
sional elections that could result in Baker
is only being diplomatic when he min-
replacing Caspar Weinberger at the
imizes talk of an elective future for him-
Pentagon.
self. Not unexpected, after all, from a
With the federal deficit going through
man who looks down from his lofty perch
the roof, this Reaganite says, the Pres-
and calls himself, with a straight face,
ident is going to have to face political
an equal among equals.