Ask the Scholar
Document scope · 1 page
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory.
For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.
Scholar Source Context
Document identity
localId
134757582
label
Cuba [1]
core
doc
dtoType
document
citationUrl
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
134757582
contentType
document
title
Cuba [1]
citationUrl
collections
Records of the Office of Political Affairs (Clinton Administration)
Reta Lewis's Files
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
134757582
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
otherTitles
42-t-5676385-20160920F-016-005-2018
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
563505b4c31a9a6c
ocrText
FOIA Number: 2016-0920-F
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the William J. Clinton
Presidential Library Staff.
Collection/Record Group:
Clinton Presidential Records
Subgroup/Office of Origin:
Political Affairs
Series/Staff Member:
Reta Lewis
Subseries:
OA/ID Number:
5176
FolderID:
Folder Title:
Cuba [1]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
S
28
5
6
1
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001. tables
re: Democratic National Committee political statistics (Campaign) (8
08/15/1994
Personal Misfile
pages)
002. letter
NCEC Services to Joe Velasquez re: GOTC scheduling maps (6
08/11/1994
Personal Misfile
pages)
003. statement
re: Base voters strategy discussion document (3 pages)
08/15/1994
Personal Misfile
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Political Affairs
Reta Lewis
OA/Box Number: 5176
FOLDER TITLE:
Cuba [1]
2016-0920-F
im1889
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)|
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office |(a)(2) of the PRA
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRAJ
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA|
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
Q thank (hork y)
Dean Jonge
Jorge S. Villalba
6600 SW. 57th Avenue
ins. put and you support.
thanks jayou
Miami, FL 33143
August 26, 1994
I tauly advre. approvate your
Ms. Reta Lewis
Special Assistant to the President
Thanks again.
White House Office of Political Affairs
Old Executive Office Building, Room # 115
Washington, D.C. 20500
Rj
Re:
Current crisis in Cuba and the country's eventual democratization
Dear Ms. Lewis:
As a member of Governor Lawton Chiles' Commission on a Free Cuba, I would like to
thank you for meeting with us earlier this week. The Cuban American community, as
you had a chance to see during your visit to Miami, is deeply concerned about the
present situation in Cuba, and strongly urges the U.S. Government to continue increasing
the pressure on Fidel Castro.
I, like most Cuban Americans, applaud the President's decision to end U.S. flights to
Cuba, as well as stopping the flow of U.S. dollars to the island. These actions will
severely curtail Castro's income and bring Cuba one step closer to democracy.
I strongly support the President's decision to increase television and radio broadcasts to
Cuba, as well as his decision to ask the United Nations to implement strong sanctions
against Cuba. Although I am firmly against any type of negotiation with Castro, as are
most Cuban Americans, history shows that if it were to come to that, the United States
must negotiate from a position of strength and power. Increasing this government's
pressure on the dictator's regime is the only way to assure that Castro accepts the United
States terms in the case of any possible negotiation.
While I am thankful for the President's actions thus far, I am respectfully requesting that
the U.S. go even further. The present crisis in Cuba is unequivocal evidence that Castro's
regime is at its most fragile moment in history. The United States must seize this golden
opportunity by increasing its pressure on him twofold. Make no mistake about it; the
only way to end the massive exodus of Cubans from the island is by precipitating
Castro's downfall.
Page 2
Letter to Reta Lewis from Jorge S. Villalba
August 26, 1994
The much discussed naval and aerial blockade of Cuba would be ideal. In addition, I am
requesting that you consider the following points, and to discuss them with the President.
Castro is a master when it comes to getting his way through the use of bluffs and of
threats. Let us use this strategy against him.
Even if we are not seriously considering military action against Castro, let us act as if
we are. We can achieve this by both, training and arming a portion of the Cuban
rafters currently held in Guantanamo, and positioning a number of American warships
near the Cuban coasts.
I feel that bluffing can be a powerful weapon in the fight against Castro, if employed
effectively. It is an option that I trust you, along with the rest of the President's advisers,
will seriously consider. Please thank the President for the attention he has devoted to the
Cuban crisis, and his ongoing commitment to a free and democratic Cuba. As a member
of the Cuban community, I send him my highest regards.
If you would like to contact me you may call me at (305) 663-2078 or fax a response to
(305) 663-2083.
Respectfully Yours,
Sincerely Jorge S. Villalba
Former Political Prisoner and
Commissioner, Governor's Commission
on a Free Cuba
Hancock
Q
CONGRESS
3rd District
August 28, 1994
Dean Judy
Ms. Reta Lewis
Special Assistant to the President
for Political Affairs
re: Mr. Handy
thanks for your note
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
passed this recommendation
IN to Presidential Pensumel
Dear Reta:
Shanks ozen Ri Ril, 1.
I am writing this letter in support of David Hauber, a Kansas lawyer who is interested in
an appointment to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. I have the highest professional and
personal regard for Mr. Hauber. He would bring invaluable practical litigation experience to the
bench, coupled with the temperament and the legal research and writing skills necessary to act
as an appellate judge. Finally, in my opinion, Mr. Hauber's fair-mindedness, compassion coupled
with clear thinking, and dedication to the pursuit of justice would enable him to serve with
distinction. Accordingly, if the Vice President's Office may assist him in any way, I urge you
to do so.
Sincerely,
frely Judy Hancock Hannach
JLH:mt
P.O. Box 7307 Shawnee Mission, KS 66207-0307
913-338-1978 (voice)
913-338-0117 (fax)
913-338-4483 (fax)
Paid for by Judy Hancock for Congress Committee, Inc., Robert Tracy, Treasurer.
92
PUBLIC
PRIVATE
PARTNERSHIP
ART COLLINS
Governmental 8 Busmess Consultants
President
August 25, 1994
Ms. Rita Lewis, Special Assistant
to the President for Political Affairs
Room 115
Old Executive Office Building
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Rita:
Please find the enclosed letter from Malcolm Cunningham regarding
his request for Secretary Ron Brown to be the luncheon speaker at
an American Bar Association (ABA) forum in New York City on January
26, 1995.
I would appreciate any help you can offer with this process. If
you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact Jevelle or me at
904/561-0762. Once you have had an opportunity to Address this
request, please give me a call.
Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Artichlins Art Collins
Enclosure
Q
1
CALL Jevelle.
- Tell hand passed info
- one cm perdigas
to Browd's
intil No after the
528 East Park Avenue
Tallahassee, Florida 32301
(904) 561-0762 FAX (904) 561-0397
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
DEMOCRATIC STATE COMMITTEE
OFFICERS
Eric T. Washington
Chair
Donna Scheeder
Vice Chairperson
Y
Robert Artisst
Corresponding Secretary
Joan Thomas
Hend us a list
Treasurer
MEMBERS
August 25, 1994
Sharon Pratt Kelly
w The level
National Committeewoman
William Simons
National Committeeman
Ms. Reta Lewis
Florence Pendleton
Alternate National Committeewoman
Special Assistant to the President
of what They are
Robert Adams, III
Max Berry
for Political Affairs
doin + whotheyaes, +
Edward Black
The White House
4
William Blount
olst they did for ceyton
William Brooks
We w 11 involve
James Bunn
Old Executive Office Building
Romes Calhoun
John Capozzi
Washington, D.C. 20500
Alice Chandler
Then
James Christian
James Coates
Robin Coates
Dear Ms. Lewis:
Jerry Cooper
Rtn
Yvette Downs
Patricia Elwood
Diane Fleming
Angelyn Spaulding Flowers
Eric Washington, Chairman, District of Columbia Democratic Party,
Charles Gaither, Jr.
Barbara Garnett
would like your assistance in setting up a Trustee Program for big
Royce Gibson
Ulysses Glee, Jr.
contributors. He would like for our big donors to have some access
Edward Grandis
Larry Gray
to The White House, if at all possible.
Terry Hairston
Barbara Helmick
Lillian Huff
Jimmie Colson Jackson
Bill Jarvis
The opportunity to meet and socialize with Democratic leadership,
Concha Johnson
Denise Johnson
and White House advisors would surely yield generous contributions.
Ruth Jordan
Three Feathers Kazemi
Aurelia Corbett King
Jeffrey Kraskin
Any assistance you could offer would be greatly appreciated.
Jim Lawlor
Claudia Lopez-Muniz
Alicia Lowery
Amanda Hatcher Lyon
Sincerely,
Ron Magnus
Stanley Mayes
James Miles
Tedd Miller
Phyllis Outlaw
Kathryn Pearson-West
Rick Powell
?
Richard Rausch
Mattie Robinson
Martha Holbert
Edward Rogers
Anita Bellamy Shelton
Executive Director
Barbara Lett Simmons
Cheryl Simmons
D.C. Democratic Party
wholder what this does
Sabrina Sojourner
Paul Strauss
Harry Thomas, Jr.
Romaine Thomas
Kurt Vorndran
Beth Waitkus
Joslyn Williams
Robert Yeldell
Michael Gilliland
General Counsel
Catherine L. York
Executive Director
1200 G Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20004
(202) 434-8732
FAX (202) 783-0961
Labor Donated
HIGH, STACK, LAZENBY, PALAHACH, GOLDSMITH & DEL AMO
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
525 STRAWBRIDGE AVENUE
3929 PONCE DE LEON BOULEVARD
115 SOUTH 2ND STREET
MELBOURNE, FLORIDA 32901
CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA 33134
FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA 34950
(305) 443-3329 FAX (305) 443-0850
ROBERT KING HIGH (1924-1967)
MELBOURNE TELEPHONE
CHARLES R. STACK, P.A.
(407) 725-5525
ROBERT A. LAZENBY, P.A.
FAX (407) 984-2411
MICHAEL PALAHACH, P.A.
GLEN R. GOLDSMITH
FT. PIERCE TELEPHONE
GEORGE W. MAXWELL III
(407) 461-6161
CLAY D. MORGAN
FAX (407) 464-6740
CARLOS C. DEL AMO
ARTHUR GARCIA, JR.
PLEASE REPLY TO:
JAMES M. ADAMS, JR.
CORAL GABLES, FL 33134
ALVIN S. CAWN (OF COUNSEL)
August 29, 1994
BY FACSIMILE
Ms. Reta Lewis
Office of Political Affairs
OEOB, Room 115
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Reta:
Manolo Reyes is an extremely prominent Cuban exile of
longstanding in the community. His intentions are always totally
honorable.
He wanted you to have the enclosed which provides a short
but meaningful history, some suggestions and his conclusions.
Very Bud truly yours,
CHARLES R. STACK
CRS/mn
Enclosure
tays Man
Bud; jhon you you
2 jaza i/d
EXEC OFC OF GOVERNOR TEL : 904-921-6114
Sep 13 94 18:14 No. 005 P.01
STATE THE STATE OF
STATE OF FLORIDA
GREAT
Parents
Office of the Governor
THE CAPITOL
THE WORK RE 3 :
TALLAHASSEE. FLORIDA 32399-0001
BUDDY MACKAY
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
1
Jalonel
FACSIMILE
Jets toush
DATE
9/13/94
Ann C/C
these me
TO
REDD LEWIS
Chiles are ultimal
The two people
TELEPHONE NUMBER (202)456-6257 -
FAX NUMBER
(202)456-7929
in Carmission. for the BRAC
FROM
MARCY Pormon /Todd Wilder
lets
TELEPHONE NUMBER (904) 488-4711
Reore advise
FAX NUMBER
(904)921-6114
Steenen
is 1st
MESSAGE
CT. GOV. macking URBENTLY WANTED
Choleo
you 10 See THE ATACHED
Z
Thanks
may
5 PAGES TO FOLLOW
EXEC OFC OF GOVERNOR
TEL :904-921-6114
FROM:
a
64
TO:
Sep 13 94
904 921 6114
SEP 13. 1994
18:14 No 005 P.02
5:24PM
P.02
BOB GRANAM
FLORIDA
Hnited States Senate
WASHINGTON, DO 206 10-0902
August 24, 1945
The Honorable William J. Clinton
President of the United States
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
we &IR aware that very soon you will welect candidates for the
1995 Base Reslignment and Closure Commission. Among the criteria
for commission members is the ability to independently bring
sound judgment to this challenging process, and yet collectively
represent a variety of perspectives. We recommend two nominees,
endorsed by the Plorida Defense Conversion and Transition
Commission, for your consideration, Both candidates, General
Carl Stiner, USA (retired) and Admiral Huntington Hardisty, USN
(revired) Are wwll-respected individuals with senior military
leadership experience in joint and combined commands. These
candidates are extremely capable and can be relied on to make the
hard, objective decisions nacessary in the bAst Interest of the
nation, while balancing awareness of military requirements with
community and economic impacts. 1 synopsis of their experience
follows and results are enclosed.
General Stiner, prior to his retirement from the U.B. Army, was
the Commander in Chief of the U.S. Special Operations Command at
MacDill Air Force Base, Florida from 1908-1993. Among the
highlights of his distinguished career, ho served as Commander,
Joint Task Force South and operational commander of Operations
Just Cause, and on the Joint Staff 00 Assistant Deputy Director
for Politioc-Military Affairs, Washington, DC.
Atimiral Hardisty served as Commander in Chief, U.M. Pacific
Conviand, Camp Smith, Hawaii from 1988 until his retirement in
March 1991. His docorated career includes service as Vice Chief
or Naval Operations, Washington DC, and Deputy and Chief of
Statt, CINCIACFLY.
We also commend to your attention the recommendation from the
Florida delegation members of the House of Representatives for
Congressman Tom Lewis.
Who strongly endorse these candidates for thw BRAC Commission.
Their experience, coupled with an interest to fairly arrive at
the difficult decisions for BRAC 95, qualifies them very well for
this endedvor. We look forward to working with you on this issue
of importance to our national security and the State of Florida.
with kind regards,
EXEC OFC FROM: OF GOVERNOR TEL :904-921-6114
!'U 67
TO:
904 921 6114
Sep 13 94 18:15 No. 005 P.03
SEP 13, 1994 5:25PM P.03
Respectfully,
Camie Word
Bob Graham
cornie Mack
United States Senator
United States Senator
Lawton Crices
Lawton Chiles
Governor of the State of Plorida
BG/has
Attachments
EXEC OFC OF GOVERNOR
TEL 904-921-6114
Sep
13
FROM:
94
TO:
18:15 No 005 P.04
904 921 6114
BIOGRAPHY SEP 13,
ADMIRAL HUNTINGTON HARDISTY
Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Command
Admiral Huntington Hardisly is the fourteanth neval officer to hold the pos ition
of Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Command. Comp H.M. Smith. Hawaii. An the
senior U.S. military commander In the Pacific and Indian Ocean areas, no heads
:he inrgest of the unitied commands and directs Army, Nuvy, Marine Corps and Air
Force opionations across more than 100 million equare miles -- over 50 percent 01
the earlh's surface. The U.S. Pacific Command extends from the wast coast of the
United States to the east coast of Airica, from the Arctic to the Antarotic. Ho is
responsible to the President and the Secretary of Defense and is the U.S. military
representative for collective defense arrangements in the Pacific
Admiral Hardisty, a native of Atianta, Georgia. was.commiesioned an ensign on
June 6. 1052. following his graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis,
Maryland. Admiral Hardisty earned a master of science dagree in International
relations from Harvard University. Cambridge, Massachuseits, in 1964.
Designated a nevel aviator in 1853, Admiral Hardisty's early Navy sours include
duty as #. Naval AVIDIOR with Fighter Squadrons 12. 22, 109 and 102: Special
Neapons Project Tost Pilot, Naval Air Special Wanpons Facility, Kirlland Air
10rce Bake, Albuquarque, New Mexico: Aircraft Handling Officer, USS AMERICA (CVA (6): Commending Citflegr.
Iquadroh Air Operations Officer. Carrier Strike Force, SEVENTH FLEET: and Special Plans and All Operations
or Southeast Asia in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), Plans. Policy and Operations. Washington
lugust 18161, at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, while fiying an F4B Phantom II. he soi a world three 1:1
ow-level- spend record which WAF unsurpassed for 18 years.
In 1971. Admiral Hardisty was assigned as the Commander. Attack Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN. Returning to
D.C. in 1972, no served as the Executive Assistant to the Director. Navy Program Planning. Admiral Harricty 8
command 01 the UBS SAVANNAH (AOR 4) in 7873. and command of USS ORISKANY (CVA 34) in 1974.
Admira Hardisty was Doan of Academies st the Naval War Collage, Newport. Ahode Island, when DE was refected
ank in February 1977, and ordered to assume duties as noting President of the War College. He next assumed nom
he U.S. Facility at Suble Bay, Republic of tha Philippines. serving also as the Commander in Chief Pacillo Represe
le attended the ONO Senior Officer Ship Material Readiness Course In Idaho Fulls, Idaho. prior to assuming 121
Commander. Carrier Group SEVEN. in 1980.
in July 1981. Admiral Hardisty became Commander, Carrier Group FIVE/Carrier Strike Force SEVENTH FLEET, It
y assignment in July 1982, as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and Operations, U.S. Pacific.Flont (CINCPACE
ecame Assistant Deputy Chief al Naval Operations. Plans, Policy and Operations, in 1983.
in 1884, Admiral Hardisty was assigned as the Director for Operations. Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He the
apuly and Chief of Staff, CINCRACFLT. in 1006, and the Visa Chiel of Naval Operations. Washington D.C., in 1
ssumadihis ciresent position in September 1988
Admiral Hardisty's awards and decorations include the Delense Distingularies Service Medal, Navy Distin
arvies Medal with gold star, Silver Star Modal, Legion of Marli with Combat "V" and tour gold stars. Distinguishe
ross with one gold star. Meritorious Service Medal, Air Modal with two Eloid stars, Navy Commendation lhe
unibal "*/" and two gold stars, Philippine Lugion of Honor and various campaign medals.
Admiral Hardisty is married to the former'Bally Mrs IVEL of St. Patersburg, Florida. They have 1wo sons: John one
OCE 1990 - Retired after 30 years of active service.
July 1991 -Selected for Board of Directors, Kaman Company, Bloomfield C:
May 1993 - Named in Readiness Assessment Task Force. This external tee
force of 8 retired generals and admirals Was formed to develop methods
accounting readiness through an index of indicatore for training, morale
Maintanance
funding
EXEC OFC OF GOVERNOR
TEL : 904-921-6114
FROM:
Sep 13 94
TO:
18:16 No 005 P.05
904 921 6114
SEP 13. 1994
5:27PM
P.05
ADMIRAL HUNTINGTON HARDISTY, U.S. NAVY (RET.)
Admiral Huntington Hardisty, U. $. Navy (Ret.) is former
Commander-in-Chief U.S. Pacific Command. He was born in Atlanta,
Georgia and is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1952
and the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University,
1964. He held nine commands as a naval aviator culminating in
Director of Operations for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Deputy
Commander of the Pacific Flest, vice Chief of Naval Operations,
and CINCPAC. Admiral Hardisty retired March 1, 1991 and resides
1113 Falls Church, Virginia. He in a member of the Board of
Directors and consultant to Kaman Corporation; a member of the
Board of Directors for Contraves USA, a member of the Board of
Turuntees and a consultant to the Center for Naval Analyses
Corporation; a member of the Military Advisory Panel to the
National Intelligence Council, Central Intelligence Agency; a
senior fellow at the National Defense University) a senior vice
president of the Association of Naval Aviation; Chairman of the
Board of Trustees of the National Avintion Museum Foundation; and
Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the U.S. Naval Academy
Alumni Association. He in also A member of the Secretary of
Defense Joint Task FOXCE on Readiness.
EXEC OFC OF GOVERNOR
TEL 904-921-6114
Sep
13
94
18:17 No 005 P.06
FROM:
TO:
904 921 6114
SEP 13, 1994
5:27PM
P.06
United States Special Operations Command
Public Affairs Office MacColl AFB, FL 33608-6001 - (813) 830-4600
GENERAL CARL
VV. STINER, USA (RET.)
Clancral Churl W. Stiner, U.S. Army, is the Com
mander to Chief of the United States Special Operations
Command, headquartered at MacDill Air Force Buse
Torlds. As Commander by Chief, he is responsible for
all the special operations forces of the Anny, Navy, mut
4/5 Force.
Born LaFolletta, Tennessee, on 9 September
936, General Stiner graduated from Tennemisen
Polytechnical Institute In 1938 with 8 Bacholor of Sol
x100 Degree mid was comminationed in the infantry. Bill
Dived initially with the 9th Infaniry Regiment at For
Benuing, Georgia, the 7th Infantry Division In Kopen
nd commanded a basic training company at Fort Jask
on, South Carolina
General States 8 first special operations tour of dat)
VRS 1964-615 with the 3d Special Feroes Group at For
Bragg, North Cardline Following graduation from the
umy Command and General Staff College in 1957, be
erved in: Visinan as both an Infantry battalion une
rigade operations officer (S-3) with the 4th Infants
Division.
In 1970, afters tour with Headiyuartens, Department
If the Acidy la Washington, D.C., be kined the 82d
Urborne Division where he commanded the 2d Battal
DIS 325th Airborne Infantry Regisent, and served at
XVIII Alrborno Corps and Fort Hagg- As Command-
he Division Operations Officer (G-3)- Following
big Alrbadas Corps; her was designated
raduation From the Army Was Colloge ON 1975 mid
Comminder, Joint Thak Force South, and served us the
DUE in Sauxu Axabin, he examanded the 1st Infaniry
operational commander of an forces employed on Op-
'saining Indigado at Fort Benning.
cention JUST CAUSE Lxil Passper in Docomber 1989.
Producted 10 Hrigedler General in 1980, he served
His awards and decomitions include the Disference
trat as the Chief of Staft, Repid Deployment Joint THE
Disdiguished Service Madal with Oak I ent Cluster,
crea (RDITF), then headquartered # MscDill Al
Distinguished Service Medal with Onk Lanf Clinster,
cree Bare, and later on the Asstribunt Division Com
Defens) Superior Service Medal, Legion of Morit with
under of the and Alabome Division. After serving or
Onk Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart, Conbat Infanirymen
181 Joint Staff in Wenhington, D.C. as Assistant Deputy
Badge, Master Perachusis Badge Ranger Tab, Army
Director for Politico-Military Affairs. in 1984 he was
General Blaff Identification Brdge, and Joint Chiefs of
consoled to Major General and appointed as Command
Staff Servion Badge Hu also holds n Manter's Degree
111 Cleuel of the Joint Special Operations Command
in Vublic Administration from Shippensburg States Col.
1 Pait BIRGH.
legs.
He held This print until assigned us CommandTing
He and his wite, the former Sue Reuves, have two
leneral, 821 Airbama Division, In January 1987. by
daughters Lapria, who resides in Tampa, Florida, and
clober 1988, 11.00 was named Commanding General
Carla, who residen in Knoxville, Tonnicsare.
General Stiner retired in May 1993.
SEP-16-94 FRI 19:23
P.01
Q
Reta
Don.
Call lloncen
Joe
assistance on ask her
September 16, 1994
their meety.
Scheduled w/
POTUS. 26 so, when
MEMORANDUM FOR LEON PANETTA
then Q- remained me talk w/
THROUGH:
MARCIA
HALE
MEH
Harry on John about The
FROM:
JEFFREY FARROW, Co-Chair, Inter-Agency
Working Group on Puerto Rico
SUBJECT:
Meetings with Puerto Rico's Commonwealth
party president and Resident Commissioner
CC: Ambassador Albright
Pat Griffin
Joan Baggett
Christine Varney
Jack Quinn
This is to:
1) further discuss the meeting the President is scheduled to
have next Wednesday with the head of the Puerto Rico
political party that favors substantial changes within the
islands' current political status, San Juan Mayor Hector
Luis Acevedo, and
2) recommend a similar meeting with the islands' Resident
Commissioner, Congressman Carlos Romero Barcelo, who is an
aggressive leader of the competing statehood party, as well
as recommend consultations with the relevant House and
Senate committee chairmen.
Background
During 1992, the President committed to actively support
implementation of a future status choice by the people of Puerto
Rico. He reiterated the pledge last year after a government
dominated by statehood advocates called a plebiscite among status
plans put forth by the islands' three parties, each of which is
based on a different vision of the best status for the islands.
A package of greater benefits and powers under the current status
-- known as 'commonwealth' -- won an upset plurality victory over
statehood 48.6% to 46.3%, with 4.4% for independence. Proponents
of all three options then pressed for Federal action on the
commonwealth proposals which include:
agreement that the U.S.-Puerto Rico relationship is
bilateral and cannot be changed without the islands'
consent;
SEP-16-94 FRI 19:23
P.02
2
job-creating revisions in the Federal tax incentive for
U.S. corporate activity in insular areas;
extension of Supplemental Security Income;
Food Stamps-level funding of the special food program for
Puerto Rico; and
tariff protection for local agricultural products other
than coffee (which is already protected from foreign
competition.)
Motivating statehood leaders was their confidence that the
proposals are unrealistic. --
Requiring the islands' consent for changing the relationship
would be constitutionally unprecedented.
The tax incentive for insular corporate activity was
substantially restricted by the President's economic
program.
Extending SSI would cost some $900 million a year.
Food Stamps-level funding would cost about $600 million a
year.
The tariff protections would run counter to international
trade agreements.
-- Clear rejection of or inaction on the proposals would be
likely to help the statehooders win another plebiscite that they
hope to hold in 1997 or '98 as well as win the 1996 elections.
Recognizing the difficulty of achieving their proposals -- and
the stakes for '96 and beyond -- commonwealth leaders privately
indicated flexibility regarding the agenda and sought
negotiations on a less ambitious bottom line.
They were well-positioned to make the request because all parties
asked for a Federal response; talks would be less harsh than a
flat rejection of their proposals; their leadership includes the
President's principal 1992 supporters in the islands; and the
President had pledged to make commonwealth work better if it won.
After a position on Puerto Rico's petition was requested for a
House hearing, the President decided that an inter-agency working
group should be organized to develop policy on questions raised
by the plebiscite as well as other Puerto Rico issues. An
emphasis was to be placed on the islands' economic problems, in
part because they are a basis of the political and social issues.
SEP-16-94 FRI 19:26
3
The mechanism should also enable a promise to consider the
islands' situation in policymaking to be carried out as well as
provide a means for the White House to fulfill its role as the
'agency' responsible for Puerto Rico status matters.
Reaction was generally positive; but some statehood leaders are
wary of the effort enabling commonwealthers to claim progress
under the current status before the '96 election. Although
Governor Pedro Rossello, who heads the statehood party, designed
the plebiscite to petition for Federal action, he now says it is
up to the commonwealthers to deliver on their victory and he
suggests the process was flawed because their proposals are
fallacious. Res. Comm. Romero is concerned that the working group
will obscure a direct response to the proposals although he would
like to see it clarify the status issue.
Issues
As you will recall, the meeting with Mayor Acevedo was agreed to
in lieu of a more concrete measure he requested for the recent
anniversary of the establishment of Puerto Rico's commonwealth
government: replacement of the Bush policy directive regarding
Puerto Rico with one similar to the Kennedy directive that it had
replaced. The committed to purpose of the meeting was to enable
Acevedo to make the case for the commonwealth agenda; but he very
much wants the Bush memo, which undermines commonwealth,
rescinded at the time of the meeting. He also wants the meeting
to show that commonwealth proposals will be seriously considered.
As you know, news of the meeting concerned Res. Comm. Romero, who
not only doubts the viability of the commonwealth proposals but
also questions the commonwealth 'mandate.' He has also asked for
a meeting.
Discussion
The Bush Memo:
President Bush issued his directive after the 1992 election in
fulfillment of a promise to Republican statehooders. It primarily
undermines commonwealth by describing the islands' status as
territorial, subject to broad Federal control. Kennedy had
suggested that commonwealth made Puerto Rico something more than
a mere territory and less subject to unilateral Federal powers.
The issue is at the heart of the status debate in Puerto Rico and
the four other U.S. insular areas. In essence, it is whether
there can be a distinct status called commonwealth in which
Federal powers are limited by mutual agreement even though the
Constitution only provides for territories in which Federal
SEP-16-94 FRI 19:26
P.02
4
powers are broad (other than States and the Federal District.)
The argument for such a status is that there are areas populated
by U.S. Citizens that will not become states -- and obtain the
power in the Federal decision-making process that States have --
and that they should, therefore, be immune from unlimited Federal
control. The lack of such a status option would mean that they
have no real alternative to what is essentially a colonial
situation other than an independence they do not want.
While statehood is said to be an option in the case of Puerto
Rico, it is much less likely to be sought if commonwealth is more
than a territorial status. Although the issue hasn't been clearly
resolved by the courts, however, most opinions don't hold Federal
powers to be as limited as commonwealthers would like.
Puerto Rico was taken off the U.N.'s list of non self-governing
territories, though, based on U.S. representations that
commonwealth made the islands more self-governing than they are
generally considered to be. The Bush memo, while legally
supportable, is inconsistent with those representations -- a
principal argument commonwealthers make for rescinding it.
Commonwealthers object to two other aspects of the memo. One
calls for continued status referenda until there is a fundamental
change in Puerto Rico's status -- which suggests commonwealth
cannot be an 'ultimate' status. The other calls for agencies to
treat Puerto Rico as a State -- which suggests special policies
should not be developed for the islands (although this appears to
have little practical effect.)
Perhaps the best argument for replacing the Bush memo is that it
is unnecessary and obnoxious. (Its only essential provision
continued the Kennedy memo's assignment of matters involving
Puerto Rico's status to the White House.) And this
Administration's policies ought to be made by this President -- a
step that, by and large, Puerto Ricans in the States as well as
the islands would like.
But, precipitously rescinding the Bush directive would concern
Statenooders such as replesencative was new not carry
supported the Bush policy but sponsored a bill based on it.
The Commonwealth 'Mandate':
A fundamental question is whether the plebiscite was conclusive
since commonwealth did not receive majority support. Other than
that the rules of the plebiscite only required a plurality, it is
hard to argue that a popular will for a specific change can be
understood from less than half the vote. House Subcommittee
Chairman de Lugo and Senate Committee Chairman Johnston have
expressed concerns in this regard.
SEP-16-94 FRI 19:27
P.03
5
The President's ability to regard the results as less than a
mandate is somewhat limited, however, by saying that he was
"excited" about the plebiscite when it was called and by
interpreting the results as a commonwealth victory. still, the
commonwealthers themselves opposed the plebiscite's lack of a
majority requirement beforehand!
In any case, though, the vote clearly expressed an overwhelming
sentiment for: changing the existing status; equal treatment in
Federal programs; and a continued close association with the U.S.
Administration Action:
While months have passed since the decision to organize the
working group was made, delays related to congressional concerns,
other insular issues, and administrative support have been
overcome.
Memos to EOP staff and agencies regarding membership on and
cooperation with the working group should go out before the
Acevedo meeting -- obviating a major concern of the Mayor's.
Puerto Rico matters are so controversial, however, that acting
without substantial consultation will result in many complaints.
And the downside is greater than the positive benefits of acting.
Other Factors
Several factors complicate the handling of this matter.
One is that both the statehooders and commonwealthers are
led by Democrats since Gov. Rossello became a Democrat.
(While most statehooders are Republicans, many
commonwealthers have long supported our Party.) Also, both
parties have very well-very connected lobbyists here.
Another complicating factor is that there is no consensus on
the issues in Congress among the relatively few Members who
are interested; but those who are interested have strongly-
held views. Among others, they include three Puerto Ricans
who represent States in the House and who all have different
status preferences.
A third factor is that there are almost as many Puerto
Ricans in the U.S. (2.7 million) as in the islands
(3.6 million) and they are politically significant in a few
States. Some are divided on the options, although others are
more concerned that the islands' wishes be respected and its
economic needs be met.
SEP-16-94 FRI 19:34
P.01
6
Some other aspects of the issue should be kept in mind as well.
Statehood support has grown at the expense of commonwealth
for two principal reasons in addition to a desire for
political equality. One is that past initiatives to enhance
commonwealth have failed in Washington. The other is the
great disparities that have arisen in the treatment of needy
Puerto Ricans in social programs. In spite of this, Puerto
Ricans remain a people who cannot be easily assimilated into
our nation in a classic 'melting pot' sense.
Statehood would be extremely controversial: At best, it
would be based on a bare majority petition. Most Puerto
Ricans do not speak English and do not want to. The
islands' per capita income is less than half that of
Mississippi, and the 60% below the poverty level would
require about $3 billion a year in social programs spending.
Puerto Rico would have more political power than half the
States and be a Democratic state. It would raise a racial
issue vis a vis D.C.'s statehood petition. There would be
resistance from diehard nationalists. Finally, statehood
would eliminate the $2 billion plus U.S. corporate activity
incentive, which is vital to the islands' current economy
and to many firms' profits.
Some of the commonwealth proposals are essentially similar
to the commonwealth proposals of Guam, a territory that has
no prospect of statehood and, like Puerto Rico, is populated
by U.S. Citizens who do not want independence. (Further,
Secretary Babbitt has already indicated a desire to
seriously consider the most fundamental of the proposals:
requiring local consent for the application of Federal
policies that would affect the relationship.) Some proposals
also resemble aspirations of the other U.S. insular areas.
There is international interest, principally because of
Puerto Rico's Latin identity. Additionally, Cuba has
instigated U.N. inquiries in which several nations have
favored reversing the 1953 finding that Puerto Rico's status
was non-colonially self-governing. While such a change is
unlikely, inaction could increase calls to add Puerto Rico
to the territories that the U.S. is obliged to develop into
self-government.
Recommendations
1. The meeting with Mayor Acevedo should continue to primarily be
a listening session. The opportunity to formally present his
proposals is a substantial step, in light of the situation.
Further, given congressional views and powers, the President
SEP-16-94 FRI 19:28
7
should stress the necessity of consulting with key Members of
Congress in addition to promising careful consideration of the
commonwealth position. He should indicate that the members of the
working group will be named within a couple of weeks and that a
decision on the Bush memo will be made as expeditiously as
possible.
2. A similar meeting should be held with Res. Comm. Romero -- as
Puerto Rico's official representative and as a principal
spokesman for the statehood perspective.
3. Chairman George Miller, Delegate Ron de Lugo, and Senator
Bennett Johnston should also be consulted before deciding on the
Bush memo and any actions that we ought to pursue.
Finally, we will prepare an overall strategy memo based on these
meetings and other consultations, as we discussed when we met.
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001. tables
re: Democratic National Committee political statistics (Campaign) (8
08/15/1994
Personal Misfile
pages)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Political Affairs
Reta Lewis
OA/Box Number: 5176
FOLDER TITLE:
Cuba [1]
2016-0920-F
jm1889
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRAJ
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRAJ
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
002. letter
NCEC Services to Joe Velasquez re: GOTC scheduling maps (6
08/11/1994
Personal Misfile
pages)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Political Affairs
Reta Lewis
OA/Box Number: 5176
FOLDER TITLE:
Cuba [1]
2016-0920-F
jm1889
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office |(a)(2) of the PRAJ
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
003. statement
re: Base voters strategy discussion document (3 pages)
08/15/1994
Personal Misfile
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Political Affairs
Reta Lewis
OA/Box Number: 5176
FOLDER TITLE:
Cuba [1]
2016-0920-F
jm1889
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute ((a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRAJ
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA|
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.