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Senior Staff Meetings 1983 (3)
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Senior Staff Meetings 1983 (3)
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Michael Deaver's Senior Staff Meeting 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: Senior Staff Meetings 1983
(3)
Box: 31
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/
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (4-25-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Prior to today's interview with a West German
Speakes
magazine, the editor will be photographed with Helene von Damm.
The Fermi award ceremony today will be covered by the press.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Meeting with Joseph Luns will be a photo op.
Speakes
3.
Central America: Meeting will be held at 11:00 today to discuss
Gergen
the speech and suggestions made by Casey and Kirkpatrick. Legis-
Clark
lative Affairs is trying to shut off plans for a secret session by
Duberstein
the Senate Tuesday night to discuss Nicaragua.
Regarding Congressman Long, a copy of Secretary Shultz's letter
should be released. Guidance regarding possible committee votes
in advance of the President's speech is that such decisions rest
entirely with the Congress.
4.
Trade Reorganization: Secretary Baldrige will testify on this
Fuller
tomorrow, and may come over today to brief the press on it. Guid-
Gergen
ance is that we favor the creation, in principle, of a Department
of Trade and Industry, and will be working with Senator Roth and
others to develop details of such a proposal.
5.
Nuclear Freeze Resolution: This will again be taken up by the
Duberstein
House late Wednesday or Thursday; diluting amendments are still
possible.
6.
CBI: The Senate Finance Committee has already held a hearing today
Duberstein
on this subject. In the House, Rostenkowski is prepared to proceed
as soon as the Senate version begins to move.
7.
Health Care for the Unemployed: Stockman will be testifying on
Duberstein
this Wednesday; his testimony will be circulated in advance. A
Wright
meeting will be held here tomorrow with a group of senators to dis-
cuss the CCEA recommendations.
8.
Budget: Guidance on this is unchanged. The Senate budget resolu-
Duberstein
tion will probably not be voted on until next week. A Legislative
Darman
Strategy meeting will be held on this subject today.
9.
Cabinet Activity: Various cabinet councils will be meeting this
Fuller
week, though no meetings with the President are scheduled.
10.
Communications Activity: The President's speech on Central America
Gergen
will be given on Wednesday; an interview with USA Today will be
held tomorrow, and will be printed on Wednesday; and possibility
exists of questions during the New York trip, which is also on
Wednesday
11. Tuition Tax Credits: The Senate Finance Committee has scheduled a
Duberstein
hearing on this for April 28.
Senior Staff Meeting Action Items (4-25-83)
Page 2 of 2
ITEMS
ACTION
12. News Story About "Mismanagement" of Coal Leases: Fuller will check a *Fuller
into this story in today's Post.
13. Long-Term Grain Agreement: Guidance is that Secretary Shultz has
Speakes
conveyed to Dobrynin an offer to negotiate a new long-term agree-
ment; we are still awaiting a response from the Soviet Union.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (4-27-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Saturday Radio Speech: This will probably discuss the recently re- 18. Gergen
leased report on education.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Meeting with Trudeau will be a photo op.
Speakes
3.
Speech on Central America: Latest draft went in to the President
Darman
this morning, along with some additional suggestions. Former
Gergen
Presidents have been briefed, and it was noted that Henry Kissinger
Duberstein
will appear on "Nightline." Plans are to conduct the initial press
briefing at 5:00, with copies of the speech being distributed at
5:45. Various senators and congressmen will be available to com-
ment after the President's speech.
4.
El Salvador: A Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on our
Duberstein
aid request may be postponed. Also, it was noted that the Presi-
dent discussed the situation in El Salvador during the interview
with USA TODAY.
5.
Radio Marti: A hearing will be held on this today in the Senate
Duberstein
Foreign Relations Committee. There has already been a successful
mark-up in the House.
6.
Health Insurance for the Unemployed: Stockman is testifying on
Duberstein
this subject today. It was also noted that yesterday's meeting on
this with a group of senators went well.
7.
Productivity: These figures will be released today.
Feldstein
8.
CBI: This legislation will be introduced in the House today by
Duberstein
Rostenkowski, Wright, Michel and others. CBI will also be referred
to in tonight's speech.
9.
Intermediate Appeals Court: DOJ testimony on this proposal by
Wright
Burger has been postponed in order to allow for WH review of our
position.
10. Trade Reorganization: We are still working on an interagency basis
Fuller
to resolve details of this. We hope to have a proposal prepared
Harper
soon which we can then discuss with Senator Roth.
11. Weather Satellites: DOC's Inspector General is looking into the
Fielding
question of whether policy decisions on this were improperly influ-
Fuller
enced. It was also noted that Congress will probably pass legis-
lation requiring their approval before any sale can proceed.
12. Office of Government Ethics: The House Judiciary Committee has
Fielding
passed a version of this reauthorization which excludes the idea
of a fixed term for the director.
Senior Staff Meeting Action Items (4-27-83)
Page 2 of 2
ITEMS
ACTION
13. Coal Leasing: Testimony will be offered today on leasing in the
Fuller
Powder River Basin. Interior has forwarded guidance on this issue,
which will be circulated.
14. Maritime Issues: Disagreement exists between OMB and other agen-
Meese
cies on two maritime-related issues. These will be discussed in
the Meese management meeting at 8:30.
15. Tuition Tax Credits: Secretary Bell will testify tomorrow on this
Duberstein
subject. A Presidential letter has been drafted which can be read
Gergen
by Bell during the hearing. Our objective on this issue is to
first pass the legislation in the Senate, then to push for action
by Rostenkowski.
16. Jesse Jackson: It was mentioned that Jackson is attacking the Ad-
ministration for appointing only one federal judge, and for Justice's
alleged failure to enforce the Voting Rights Act.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (4-26-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: A meeting with Secretary Bell has been added at
Deaver
9:45. The meeting with Wirthlin at 11:00 may be moved to another
Speakes
day. It was also noted that the Education Commission event involves
open press coverage, and that a WH photo will be taken during the
meeting with Luns.
2.
Central America: The latest speech draft will be circulated, with
Gergen
a copy to Kirkpatrick. Regarding Representative Long's comments,
Duberstein
guidance is that we are encouraged; a committee mark-up will be
Clark
held today on the El Salvador aid request. Regarding draft letter
mentioned in Post, guidance is that no letter has been approved,
and no decision has yet been made on the idea of a special envoy.
It was mentioned that a secret session of the Senate has been ten-
tatively set for 2:30 today, though we are still working to avert
this. Regarding the speech itself, staff were instructed not to
comment to the press unless requested to do so.
3.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Both the New York trip and the speech will be
Speakes
covered by the press.
4.
Budget: Will reach the floor next week, and extensive debate is
Duberstein
anticipated.
5.
Coal Leasing: Interior is re-working their position, and will pre-
Fuller
sent testimony on the Hill tomorrow. It was also noted that an
oil leasing plan will be announced today; we should make certain
that the same procedure is not being used.
6.
Weather Satellites: Wright and Fuller will check further into al-
Wright
legations regarding Comsat's involvement, and Fielding will con-
Fuller
tinue to monitor those aspects involving Guy Fiske.
Fielding
7.
Acid Rain: This subject will be raised today with the President
Williamson
by Governor Sununu, though it will not be menționed to the press.
Fuller
CEQ has been coordinating a working group on this issue, though
the matter has been put on hold until Ruckelshaus is confirmed.
8.
Commission on Excellence in Education: A set of recommendations
Fuller
will be presented to the President today. This is an ambitious
Gergen
effort to study and deal with problems in our educational system.
9.
Teamsters: Guidance is that the President has called Jackie Presser
Speakes
to congratulate him.
10. Proclamations: McManus and Whittlesey will discuss whether to
McManus
create an event based on our signing of the Older Americans' Month
Whittlesey
proclamation. Also, an event may be centered around our proclama-
Darman
tion for Physical Fitness Month.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (4-28-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Meeting with Trudeau will be a photo op.
Speakes
2.
Cabinet Meeting: Meeting will be held at 2:00 to discuss paperwork
Fuller
reduction, federal procurement policy, occupational opportunities
for women, and other CCMA issues.
3.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Other than coverage of the Houston trip,
Speakes
there will be no photo op tomorrow.
4.
Speech on Central America: Overall reaction has been positive.
Duberstein
Calls are running 2 to 1 in favor, and calls from over 200,000
Gergen
people to ABC's Nightline were 3½¹/2 to 1 in favor. Also, members of
Congress such as Senator Jackson, Senator. Bentsen and Representa-
tive Fascell made positive comments. A bipartisan group may be
brought in at 3:00 today for further follow-up. We have a number
of spokesmen appearing in the media, including the VP, who will
appear on NBC tonight. One fact which we should check for possi-
ble use is the number of murders by Salvadoran guerrillas.
It was suggested that, in the future, we consider not distributing
Gergen
advance copies of the speech.
Also, all WH and departmental staff were complimented for the full
support provided on this speech.
5.
Bankruptcy: This legislation passed the Senate yesterday. It in-
Duberstein
cluded 85 new judgeships.
6.
Nuclear Freeze Resolution: This is on the House floor today, but
Duberstein
debate is expected to extend into tomorrow.
7.
Special Envoy to Central America: A decision has been made on this, Clark
but timing of an announcement is still undecided.
8.
Bailout Legislation: Mortgage and agricultural bailout bills have
Duberstein
both drawn strong opposition in the House.
9.
Tuition Tax Credits: Secretary Bell is testifying on this today,
Duberstein
and will read a Presidential letter. Buck Chapoton will testify
on behalf of Treasury.
10. Office of Public Liaison: Four staff appointments will be an-
Whittlesey
nounced today.
Speakes
11. Nominations: Confirmation hearings for both Bill Ruckelshaus and
Duberstein
Rich Williamson are scheduled for May 3.
12. Health Insurance for the Unemployed: Testimony yesterday by
Duberstein
Stockman apparently went well.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (4-29-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: The Houston trip will be covered by the press.
Speakes
2.
Monday's Schedule: The congressional meeting at 4:00 will discuss
Duberstein
a different subject from that currently listed. Decision on a pos-
sible photo op during the day will be reserved for Monday morning..
3.
Leading Indicators: The index was up 1.5% in March.
4.
Nuclear Freeze Resolution: This subject will be considered again
Duberstein
next week on the House floor. The Democrats will reportedly try
to limit debate.
5.
Boland Amendment: Guidance is that we are continuing to work with
Speakes
the committee regarding the Boland Amendment and further attempts
to cut off funds for covert activities in Nicaragua.
6.
Saturday Radio Speech: The draft speech on education has gone in
Gergen
to the President. It will be taped late today in Houston.
7.
Older Americans Month: This proclamation will be issued today.
Darman
No event will be held in connection with it.
8.
Mother's Day: A Saturday radio speech is being prepared on this
Gergen
subject. It was suggested that the speech might mention Mrs.
Rossow, who recently met with the President.
9.
Speech on Central America: Media reaction to the speech is still
going well, as is reaction in Congress.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-2-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: There will be no photo op today.
Speakes
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: A WH photo will be taken during meeting with
Speakes
South Korean FM.
3.
Cabinet Activity: CCHR will meet with the President tomorrow to
Fuller
discuss federal assistance to black colleges and drug abuse.
4.
Legislative Calendar: This week, Senate Republicans will be dis-
Duberstein
cussing possible grounds for agreement on the budget. Also, the
freeze will again be debated this week, the Boland resolution will
be marked-up, and confirmation hearings for Ruckelshaus and William-
son will be held. Further, the appropriations committees in both
houses will convene hearings on the MX; in this regard, it should
be noted that the military chiefs are behind the "Midgetman."
5.
Jewish Groups: A meeting will be held later this week to discuss
Whittlesey
the building of a Jewish support coalition.
6.
Unemployment: Latest figures will be out on Friday.
Feldstein
7.
Financial Disclosures: Staff were reminded of the need to file
updated forms by May 15.
8.
Central America: It was noted that recent Newsweek poll shows an
improvement in attitudes toward the Administration's position over
the last year.
9.
Joint Economic Committee: Stockman will be testifying before the
Wright
JEC this week on the subject of fairness. Also, a new addition of
Harper
our "Fairness Booklet" will be out this week.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-3-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: NSC meeting has been cancelled. Also, a WH
Speakes
photo will be taken during the Korean FM's visit. Today's meeting
with the GOP leadership will discuss the MX, Central America, and
the budget; Baker and Lott will take press questions afterward.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Photo op will be held during meeting with
Speakes
Handicapped American of the Year.
3.
Catholic Bishops' Letter: The WH will have no comment until a
Clark
final letter has been approved.
Gergen
4.
Budget: Senate Republicans will meet today to determine if there
Duberstein
is an agreement. The WH will wait to see if a consensus GOP ver-
Speakes
sion emerges before comment.
5.
Freeze Resolution: This will be considered on the House floor to-
Duberstein
morrow and Thursday. No decision has yet been made on which dilut-
ing amendment will be voted on.
6.
Central America: A mark-up will be held today on the Boland-
Duberstein
Zablocki bill, which committee Republicans solidly oppose. We are
working to postpone mark-up on a similar measure in the Senate
Intelligence Committee.
7.
Older Americans Month: This proclamation has been held for signing
Darman
this week in Phoenix.
8.
MX: During today's leadership meeting, the letter received from
Duberstein
Nunn, Percy and Cohen will be discussed; they are requesting a re-
Clark
statement of the President's commitment to pursue all recommenda-
tions of the Scowcroft commission.
9.
Marketing Orders: Secretary Block has developed a compromise
Fuller
which may be acceptable to those congressmen concerned about this
subject.
10. Trade Reorganization: Guidance on this is that there will be fur-
Fuller
ther consultations with the Hill before final decisions are made.
Baldrige is coordinating closely with Brock and Senator Roth.
11. USDA Food Programs: It was noted that Secretary Block has written
a rebuttal to a recent CBS story that was critical of Administration
policy in this area.
12. Story re Hospice Aid Cuts: Fuller will check into the facts re-
Fuller
garding this news story. Current information is that policy changes
have been suggested at some level in HHS, though these have not yet
reached Secretary Heckler.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-10-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: The teleconference will be covered by the press;
Gergen
the President will be briefed in advance on the Export Trading Com-
Clark
pany Act. It was noted that a brief discussion will be held with
Duberstein
the President prior to the 9:30 NSC meeting. Also, the congres-
sional meeting at 4:00 will be with a bipartisan group from the
House Armed Services Committee.
2.
Legislative Calendar: The Senate will continue consideration of
Duberstein
the budget, with a resolution possible by tomorrow night. A meet-
ing will be held again today in an attempt to reach a consensus
among GOP senators.
In the House, we hope to demonstrate veto strength on the subject
of housing bailout legislation.
On defense matters, the Senate Appropriations Committee will vote
this week on the MX, and Addabbo's subcommittee will be voting on
the Scowcroft recommendations. Also, a mark-up will be held on the
Salvadoran aid request in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee;
the VP will meet with GOP senators in advance of the vote.
Ruckelshaus will likely be confirmed today, though six hours of de-
bate may be held regarding the Administration's environmental record.
Cabinet: Will meet with the President on Thursday to discuss food
Fuller
3.
stamp reform,, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, Synfuels, and the
effects of the decline in oil prices.
4.
Education: It was emphasized that we need to highlight the Presi-
Gergen
dent's leadership on the subject of educational excellence. We
Fuller
should attempt to package our various education initiatives, and
also focus on efforts to implement the Commission's proposals.
The President's speech at Seton Hall may be devoted to this subject.
5.
Nicaraguan Sugar Imports: Both a press statement and a proclama-
Darman
tion will be ready for release today.
Fielding
6.
Southwest Border States Working Group: An initial meeting on for-
Fuller
mation of this group will be held this afternoon. It will be
chaired by Bob Dederick, Undersecretary of Commerce for Economic
Affairs.
7.
Long-term Grain Agreement: It was suggested that a bill by Sen-
Wright
senbrenner be examined for its effect on grain and other commodity
Harper
agreements.
Clark
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-11-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during Small Business Week Speakes
event, Little League event, and Secretary Shultz's visit. Wire
photos only will be allowed during Naisbitt lunch, and a WH photo
will be taken during meeting with Cardinal Krol.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during meeting with PM
Speakes
Price, and during meeting with Paul Nitze.
3.
MX: A Legislative Strategy meeting will be held today at 10:00.
Darman
Addabbo's subcommittee, will vote on the issue this afternoon. A
Duberstein
meeting will be held this morning to discuss the committee vote and
Clark
the timing of Presidential letter to be sent to the Hill. Also, a
Deaver
decision will be made regarding a Monday meeting proposed by OPL.
Whittlesey
4.
Coal Leasing: It was noted that Interior has done a background
Fuller
paper which should assist in answering questions on this.
Speakes
5.
Budget: Two key votes will be held today in the Senate.
6.
RNC Women's Conference: This event is scheduled for May 21 in In-
Rollins
dianapolis. Since it will be covered by the press, efforts should
Whittlesey
be made to secure high-level participation by Administration women,
including Secretary Heckler. Also, Frank Fahrenkopf will be asked
to brief appropriate WH staff on details of the conference.
7.
ERA: It was mentioned that Senator Hatch may be planning hearings
Duberstein
on this issue.
8.
Space Shuttle: Discussions are being held with NASA re possible
Fuller
events in connection with next month's mission.
9.
Guy Fiske: Comments on his resignation should be confined to the
Speakes
exchange of letters.
10. Fair Housing Legislation: It was noted that a bill will soon be
Harper
ready for transmission to Congress.
11. Housing Authorization Bill: This bill, which costs $23.6B, will
Duberstein
soon reach the House floor. We expect to be able to show strong
veto strength at that time.
12. Debt Ceiling: This will come up tomorrow. OMB and Treasury agree
Wright
on raising the ceiling by $100B before May 26. Also, there has
Darman
been discussion on adding the Federal Financing Bank to the budget;
Duberstein
we would probably not oppose this. At the same time, we will look
further into the idea of drafting an Administration proposal for a
capital budget.
13. Infanticide: New regulations on this will soon be published.
Fuller
Harper
14. Education: Emphasis will be given to packaging our various initia-
Deaver
tives, and to other actions which will follow-up on the recent Com-
mission report.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-12-83)
ACTION
ITEMS
1. Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during meetings with PM
Speakes
Price and Nitze. After the latter, Nitze may brief the press.
Clark
2. Tomorrow's Schedule: A photo op may be held during meeting with
Speakes
Kirkland. The VP will be asked to check with Kirkland re whether
Murphy
he will make a statement to the press favoring the MX.
3. Cabinet: Meeting today will discuss SPR, food stamp reforms, and
Fuller
use of unemployment benefits for employment and training.
4.
Senate/House Dinner: Speech for his event has gone in to the
Darman
President; staff comments are due by noon.
Gergen
5.
Saturday Radio Speech: A draft speech on the subject of small busi- Gergen
ness will soon go in to the President.
6. MX: A mark-up on this is set for 3:30 today in the Senate Appro-
Duberstein
priations Committee; timing on transmittal and release of a Presi-
Clark
dential letter will be discussed. It was stressed that it will
still be very difficult to prevail on this issue.
7. Budget: Senate consideration of this is bogged down in procedural
Duberstein
difficulties; there is a possibility that no budget resolution will
be passed.
8. El Salvador: Yesterday's vote in the House Foreign Affairs Commit- Duberstein
tee is viewed as a step in the right direction.
9. Mortgage Bailout: This passed the House yesterday, though we
Duberstein
showed veto strength on the vote. The Senate is not expected to
act quickly on this.
10. Debt Ceiling: The House Ways and Means Committee will hold a mark- Duberstein
up on this today.
11. Withholding: Ways and Means will soon report repeal legislation to Duberstein
the House floor without recommendation.
12. RNC Women's Conference: This has been postponed till June 3-4.
Rollins
13. ERA: Pam Turner and Faith Whittlesey will be in touch with Senator
Duberstein
Hatch on this.
Whittlesey
14. Retail Sales: Figures came out yesterday and were up 1.6%, a
healthy increase.
15. Coal Leasing: Secretary Watt is testifying on this today.
Fuller
16. Education: Secretary Bell has scheduled several speeches on the re- Fuller
cent Commission report.
Deaver
Senior Staff Meeting Action Items (5-12-83)
Page 2 of 2
ITEMS
ACTION
17. Mondale: It was noted that he has endorsed the Bradley-Gephardt
"flat tax" proposal.
18. Legislative Calendar: The Senate Finance Committee is tentatively
Duberstein
set to begin mark-up on both CBI and enterprise zones. Also, a
mark-up is likely next Tuesday on tuition tax credits.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-13-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
in a decision will still have to be made on whether this meeting, is
though Today's Schedule: A photo op will be held during Kirkland
Speakes
ing with Father Blum.
the Oval Office. Also, a WH photo will be taken during the meet- done
2.
Saturday Radio Talk: A draft has already been circulated and has
gone in to the President. The topic is small business.
Gergen
Darman
3.
Economic Figures: Industrial production is up 2.1% and the produc-
Gergen
er price index declined 0.1%. Feldstein will brief on these figures
Feldstein
at 9:30, and the President may also comment.
4.
Budget: All budget resolutions have been recommitted to the Budget
Duberstein
Committee, where they will be debated next Tuesday. A new resolu-
tion could be on the floor by Wednesday.
5.
MX: Yesterday's vote in the Senate Appropriations Committee was
Duberstein
very positive, though there are significant hurdles still ahead.
6.
Central American Aid Request: While we are concerned about some of
Duberstein
the riders being attached in committee, the key thing at this point
Clark
is that the dollar figures are reasonable.
7.
FEC Ruling on PAC Contributions: The impact of this ruling will be
Williamson
examined.
8.
Bankruptcy: A strategy will be developed for passage of this legis-
Duberstein
lation in the House.
Fielding
9.
CBI: This legislation passed 14-2 in the Senate Finance Committee,
Duberstein
though it will not be reported out until a vehicle is available.
Rostenkowski is planning on hearings in the House around June 1.
10. Tuition Tax Credits: A mark-up has been tentatively set for next
Duberstein
Tuesday in the Senate Finance Committee.
11. Withholding: Guidance is that we continue to oppose repeal. This
Duberstein
bill will be on the House floor next Tuesday, and will then have to
Speakes
go back to the Senate.
12. Ruckelshaus: Debate on his nomination will begin Monday, with a
Duberstein
vote on Tuesday.
13. Post Story re Black Voters: Guidance is that it is ridiculous to
Speakes
say we are writing off black voters in 1984.
14. FmHA Loan Guarantees: OMB and HUD have agreed that the loan level
Wright
will be raised from $45B to $50B. This fact will be mentioned in
Gergen
the President's Monday speech to the Home Builders. Our position
on bailout legislation will be mentioned only in the context of the
budget and its effect on interest rates.
Page 2 of 2
Senior Staff Meeting Action Items (5-13-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
15. OCS Revenue Sharing: An options paper on this has been circulated,
though it will be discussed in a meeting with the President before
Fuller
a decision is made.
16. Kemp Conference: This is being held today, though Shultz will not
Speakes
attend. Guidance is to handle this in a low-key manner.
17. Middle East: It was noted that several speech forums are coming
Gergen
up in which this might be discussed.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-16-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Speech to Home Builders and remarks to CEOs
Speakes
will both be covered by the press. WH photos will be taken dur-
ing meeting with Prince Hassan and during von Damm's swearing in.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: The possibility will be discussed of a photo
Duberstein
op during the GOP leadership meeting.
3.
MX: Several meetings will be held this week on the MX. The Senate
Duberstein
will vote on this after it concludes debate on the budget. Also,
a close vote is expected tomorrow in the House Appropriations Com-
mittee.
4.
Legislative Calendar: The House will consider repeal of withhold-
Duberstein
ing after a vote to suspend the rules, and the Senate is expected
to vote tomorrow on confirmation of Ruckelshaus.
5.
Budget: It should be stressed that the President has been involved
Duberstein
throughout the budget process; we should knock down any suggestion
Speakes
that he is standing aloof. Suggestion was made that Howard Baker
might say something on this subject.
6.
Cabinet: Meeting will be held with the President on Wednesday to
Fuller
discuss the budget, Property Review Board, and the PIK program.
CCLP will meet with the President on Thursday to discuss toxic
torts, the intercircuit tribunal proposal, and fair housing.
7.
Debt Ceiling: The Ways and Means Committee marked-up a 90-day ex-
Duberstein
tension last Thursday; it should reach the House floor this week.
8.
Economic Figures: Housing starts and CPI will be out this week.
Feldstein
9.
Immigration: This legislation will be taken up today on the Sen-
Duberstein
ate floor.
10. Education: We continue to concentrate on follow-up to the Commis-
Deaver
sion report. A report on progress may be included in the Seton
Darman
Hall speech.
11. Black Appointees: A suggestion was made that they be brought in
Harper
as a group to meet with the President. We would reiterate the mes-
Herrington
sage that we are not writing off the black vote, and would seek
their cooperation in increasing the number of black appointees.
"SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-17-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: A photo op will be held during the 9:30 con-
Gergen
gressional meeting; at that time, the President will make a short
Speakes
statement re signing of the Middle East accord. Also, the arts
Clark
and humanities luncheon will be covered by the press.
Duberstein
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: The swearing-in of Ruckelshaus will be cov-
Speakes
ered by the press. Also, a photo op will be held during signing
of the Sakharov resolution.
3.
Legislative Calendar: Legislation to repeal withholding will come
Duberstein
up today on the House floor, and is expected to pass after a two-
thirds vote to suspend the rules. The House Appropriations Com-
mittee will vote at 1:00 today on the MX, and both Weinberger and
Adelman will testify today on arms control.
In the Senate, a mark-up will be held on the budget resolution,
Duberstein
and the Finance Committee will take up the debt ceiling, tuition
tax credits, and enterprise zones.
4.
Aid to Central America: It was mentioned that the State Depart-
Duberstein
ment has asked for additional help on this from WH Legislative
Affairs.
5.
Long-Term Grain Agreement: USDA is scheduled to announce negotia-
Gergen
tions today on a new long-term grain agreement. Comments on this
Clark
should be kept at USDA, though Gergen will check on the text of
the planned announcement.
6.
Housing Starts: Figures for April will be out this afternoon.
Feldstein
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-18-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during signing of Sakharov Speakes
resolution and Ruckelshaus swearing in. It was also noted that
Duberstein
today's congressional meeting will deal with House consideration
of the MX.
2.
Cabinet: Meeting at 11:00 today will include updates on the budget
Fuller
and the PIK program.
3.
Press Conference: Reaction to last night's press conference has
been quite good.
4.
Middle East: Guidance on Habib will be provided this morning.
Speakes
Guidance on F-16s is that we will begin talking to Congress on the
Allin
subject.
5.
Nicaraguan Seizure of American Yachts: Information at this point
Clark
is still sketchy.
6.
Health Care for the Unemployed: The House Commerce Committee has
Duberstein
been marking-up a bill. The Administration has forwarded princi-
ples, but no legislation. The basic difference is over funding,
since we prefer a "pay as you go" provision.
7.
Debt Ceiling: A 120-day extension will be considered today in the
Duberstein
House, though it is not expected to pass. We feel it necessary to
continue supporting a 120-day extension as opposed to a series of
30-day extensions.
8.
MX: This will likely come up on the House floor Monday, and may
Duberstein
also come up on the Senate floor early next week. Full cooperation
from all WH offices will be needed.
9.
FY '83 Supplemental Appropriations Bill: At this point, OMB has
Wright
little disagreement on the dollar figures, though we have serious
problems with language barring certain administrative actions (in-
cluding some proposed by Don Devine).
10. Legislative Calendar: It is expected that Rita Lavelle will be
Duberstein
cited today for contempt of Congress. It was also noted that im-
migration is on the Senate floor today, tuition tax credits is
being marked-up today, and that enterprise zones was approved yes-
terday by the Senate Finance Committee.
11. Tomorrow's Schedule: It was mentioned that some briefing time
should be set aside before the President's interview with Helen
Thomas.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-19-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: There will be no photo op today.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: President will travel to Miami. His speech
Gergen
to the Cuban-American Foundation is now being finalized.
3.
Saturday Radio Speech: Will be taped on Friday; subject is Armed
Gergen
Forces Day.
4.
Seton Hall Speech: This is in circulation, and will go in to the
Gergen
President today.
Darman
5.
ABC/Washington Post Poll: Latest numbers are very encouraging.
Speakes
However, we should not comment on the "head-to-head" portions of
this poll or the recent Gallup survey.
6.
Immigration: This passed the Senate yesterday. Comments on de-
Duberstein
tails should be left with DOJ. The President should be briefed on
Speakes
the legislation before the Helen Thomas interview.
Gergen
7.
Budget: This will again be taken up on the Senate floor today at
Duberstein
4:00 p.m., and should be concluded by this evening. The resolution
Speakes
is essentially the same as that offered last week by the leadership,
though defense has been dropped to 7.1% growth. Guidance is that
we are reserving judgement until we see what happens on the floor.
8.
MX: It was noted that a favorable rule was approved by the House
Duberstein
Rules Committee; there will be an up or down vote with no amend-
ments. A vote is expected on Tuesday in the House, and on Tuesday
or Wednesday in the Senate.
9.
Tuition Tax Credits: This will be taken up today in the Senate
Duberstein
Finance Committee. It was mentioned that refundability will not be
included in the Committee version, though it will probably be of-
fered as a floor amendment. Also, an amendment will be offered to
strengthen the anti-discrimination provision.
10. Debt Ceiling: A 120-day extension was approved yesterday by the
Duberstein
House. It will now go to the Senate.
11. CCLP: Will meet with the President today to discuss toxic torts,
Fuller
intercircuit tribunal, and fair housing. The fair housing issue
will simply involve a briefing since there is no disagreement with-
in the Administration; an announcement will be made at noon by
Secretary Pierce following a brief meeting with the President at
11:45.
12. Civil Rights: It was noted that DOJ has filed suit against the
Fuller
Milwaukee Police Department for discrimination. Fuller will check
Gergen
on the facts of the case with a view toward possible use of this
case as an example of the Administration's enforcement of civil
rights laws.
Senior Staff Meeting Action Items (5-19-83)
Page 2 of 2
ITEMS
ACTION
13. F-16s: The State Department will finish their Hill consultations
Clark
today; notification letters will be sent tomorrow. A suggestion
Duberstein
was made that Whittlesey might give some advance notice of this
Whittlesey
decision to Jewish leaders.
14. Hospices: Secretary Heckler is scheduled to testify today regard-
Wright
ing proposed HHS regulations on this. Joe Wright will check on the
Gergen
testimony, and will then discuss it with Dave Gergen.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-20-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Budget: A statement will be drafted for the President to make
Gergen
before departing today. It will reiterate his warning that he
Darman
would veto spending bills that are out of line, and that he will
Duberstein
also oppose raising taxes.
2.
F-16s: Consultations with the Hill have been concluded, and noti-
Duberstein
fication letters will be sent at 11:00 today. Secretary Shultz
Clark
will also meet today with 150 Jewish leaders, and will mention
this decision.
3.
Tuition Tax Credits: Though a final committee vote was not held
Duberstein
yesterday, several crippling amendments were overcome. Concurrent
efforts will be made with Rostenkowski on this issue.
4.
Saturday Radio Speech: This will discuss Armed Forces Day, and
Gergen
will be taped this afternoon on return from Miami.
5.
Johnstown, Pennsylvania: The President will be asked to call the
Williamson
GOP mayor of this city, which has the highest unemployment rate
in the nation. The call is connected with Secretary Pierce's
announcement of a CDBG grant for Johnstown.
6.
Miami Trip: It was mentioned that the city manager of Miami re-
Williamson
cently gave a speech attacking the President. This will be
checked.
7.
Williamsburg Summit: Secretary Shultz will meet today at the WH
Gergen
with a group of columnists to discuss the Summit.
8.
MX: Discussion of this will begin on the Senate floor today, with
Duberstein
a vote by Wednesday. The House will probably vote on this Tuesday.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-23-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Meeting with Secretary Shultz is part of the
Speakes
normal NSC briefing. Photo ops will be held during meetings with
high school valedictorians and Outstanding Exporters.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Henry Kissinger is expected to comment on
Speakes
the MX after his lunch with the President. Also, a photo op may
be held during the 11:30 meeting on Confidence Building Measures.
3.
Cabinet: Will meet tomorrow at 3:30 on women's issues.
Fuller
4.
MX: This is tentatively set for a vote on the House floor tomor-
Duberstein
row, and in the Senate on Wednesday. The votes are expected to be
close, and cooperation is needed on all requested calls.
5.
Legislative Calendar: Senate Finance will probably mark-up tui-
Duberstein
tion tax credits today. Withholding may also be taken up, with a
possibility that CBI may be attached. A conference on the budget
may convene by Wednesday, the defense authorization bill may be
taken up this week, and Radio Marti will soon be coming out of
committee.
6.
Economic Figures: CPI will be out tomorrow, and will probably be
Feldstein
affected by the rise in gas prices.
7.
Nicaragua: Guidance is being formulated re New York Times story
Clark
quoting Casey and Enders.
8.
Poland: State Department guidance is that sanctions are not being
Speakes
eased, and that we are simply discussing the rescheduling of debt.
9.
Housing Bailout for Veterans: A bill which calls for this is now
Wright
on the House suspension calendar. The Administration will argue
for taking it off suspension.
10. Civil Rights Commission: Jill Ruckelshaus is not being asked to
Herrington
step down from the Commission, though we are replacing three Demo-
crats appointed by President Carter. Those people we will nominate
are all Democrats who are well qualified for the panel.
11. Infanticide: The working group on this has recommended a revised
Darman
rule, which has been circulated for comment.
Fuller
Harper
12. Financial Disclosure Statements: Will be subject to release short-
Fielding
ly. Cooperation is requested in providing any necessary clarifi-
cations prior to that time.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-25-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: The Summit preparation lunch has been cancelled.
Deaver
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: 15 minutes will be added to the pre-inter-
Deaver
view briefing, which will now begin at 9:45. Also, a photo op
Speakes
will be held during meeting with PM Fanfani.
3.
MX: The Senate is expected to vote on this in the afternoon. We
Duberstein
are characterizing the vote as being close.
4.
Bob Jones Case: It is felt that there is no need for further com-
Speakes
ment from the WH.
5.
Civil Rights Commission: Our new appointments are ready for an-
Herrington
nouncement today. All four nominees are in town for a "Mortar
Harper
Board" with OPD staff and others at 10:00.
6.
Tuition Tax Credits: This was approved yesterday by the Senate
Duberstein
Finance Committee. We are working with Senator Dole to get it con-
sidered on the floor as soon as possible. The possibility of at-
taching this measure to the withholding repeal was also discussed.
7.
Hospices: HHS will offer testimony on this subject today in the
Moran
House.
Fuller
8.
Debt Ceiling: We are continuing efforts to secure a 120-day ex-
Duberstein
tension despite lack of support from Senate Democrats.
9.
Brucellosis: Darman will circulate information forwarded by USDA
Darman
on this.
Fuller
10. Supplemental Appropriations Bill: Will be considered on the House
Moran
floor today. Rep. Conte will offer an amendment to remove restric-
Duberstein
tions on OPM's personnel reforms provided the Administration sends
a clear veto signal. Such a signal will be sent.
11. Kentucky Gubernatorial Primary: It appears that Lt. Governor
Rollins
Martha Collins will win the Democratic nomination, and will face
Republican Jim Bunning in the general election.
12. Trade Reorganization: It has been suggested that we announce our
Fuller
plan for a Department of Trade and Industry prior to the start of
the Economic Summit. A fact sheet on the proposal will be circu-
lated before a final decision is made.
13. Health Insurance for the Unemployed: It was noted that a plan
Duberstein
costing $6.8B has passed a House committee. We will continue to
oppose this particular measure.
14. Merit Pay for Teachers: It was decided that we will respond in
Deaver
some way to NEA's criticism of the President's position on this
issuè.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-24-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: A photo op will be held during congressional
Speakes
meeting on Confidence Building Measures; afterward, the President
will make a statement in the Rose Garden. A photo op will also be
held during the National Medals of Science event, and the press
will cover the photo session with the N.Y. Islanders. After Henry
Kissinger's lunch with the President, he is expected to speak with.
the press about the MX.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: The day will be devoted primarily to Summit
Deaver
preparation.
Clark
3.
MX: Guidance is that today's vote in the House is expected to be
Speakes
very close.
Duberstein
4.
Civil Rights Commission: Guidance is that there were never any
Speakes
plans to make these recess appointments. All three appointees
Herrington
will be Democrats. If asked, we can mention that we would expect
their views on busing and similar issues to coincide with those of
the President.
5.
Consumer Price Index: Figure for April is up 0.6%, an annualized
Feldstein
rate of over 7%. Excluding energy, where costs rose more quickly,
Gergen
the CPI was up at an annualized rate of 4.6%. A statement by
Feldstein may be released in order to clarify the reasons for the
increase.
6.
Tuition Tax Credits: This will be marked-up today in the Senate
Duberstein
Finance Committee.
7.
OPM Personnel Reforms: OMB is sending a letter to the House lead-
Moran
ership opposing language that would bar OPM from initiating merit-
based personnel reforms.
8.
Debt Ceiling: A mark-up on this will soon begin in the Senate
Duberstein
Finance Committee. We prefer a "clean" bill.
9.
Richard Stone Nomination: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee
Duberstein
is expected to report this nomination today.
10. Arms Control: Important testimony is being offered in the House
Duberstein
Foreign Affairs Committee today by Secretary Weinberger and Kenneth
Adelman.
11. School Prayer: At this point, we are having problems getting our
Duberstein
proposed amendment out of Senator Hatch's subcommittee. Instead,
Atwater
the subcommittee seems to prefer a silent prayer/equal access ap-
Whittlesey
proach. We will renew efforts to obtain approval for our version
through contacts with Thurmond, Hatch and others.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-26-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Meeting with Fanfani and departure will be photo
Speakes
ops.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during Nakasone meet-
Speakes
ing and the arrival statement in Williamsburg.
3.
Saturday Radio Speech: This will discuss the Economic Summit and
Gergen
will be taped today.
4.
El Salvador: Regarding the murder of a U.S. advisor, more details
Clark
will be obtained from DOD this morning. Guidance is that the
Speakes
President was notified promptly after details of the murder were
Allin
confirmed.
5.
MX: The House will again vote on the MX resolution today. We ex-
Duberstein
pect to win the vote.
6.
Civil Rights Commission: Duberstein will speak with Senator Thur-
Duberstein
mond regarding the need to move quickly on our nominations.
7.
Withholding Repeal: The Senate Finance Committee attached several
Duberstein
amendments to this bill, including CBI. Efforts to attach tuition
tax credits did not have sufficient support in committee, though
we can try again on the floor. The withholding repeal will probably
not come up again until June.
8.
Debt Ceiling: Both the House and Senate have approved identical
Duberstein
120-day extensions (through the end of the fiscal year on September
30).
9.
Education: A letter to NEA on merit pay for teachers has been
Fuller
drafted, and could go out today.
10. School Prayer: It was noted that this will not be marked-up today.
Duberstein
11. Supplemental Appropriations Committee: OMB will work to head off
Moran
amendments that would prohibit OPM from implementing its personnel
reforms.
12. Foundation for Advancement of Military Medicine: This measure
Fuller
passed Congress overwhelmingly, though DOJ feels it has constitu-
Fielding
tional problems that warrant considering a veto. Fuller, Fielding
Moran
and Moran will attempt to work out this matter.
13. Brucellosis: USDA has published a statement in the Register that a
Fuller
quarantine will be imposed on Texas unless the Legislature acts by
Williamson
June 1. Secretary Block was to talk with Governor White to assure
him that the Administration is not bluffing.
Senior Staff Meeting Action Items (5-26-83)
Page 2 of 2
ITEMS
ACTION
14. Farm Target Prices: Yesterday the House postponed mark-up on this
Duberstein
issue.
15. Space Shuttle: Launch is set for June 18, with the first female
Fuller
U.S. astronaut on board. Senior staff wishing to attend the launch
should contact Craig Fuller's office.
16. Trade Reorganization: Announcement re a proposed Department of
Fuller
Trade and Industry will not be made until next week. In the mean-
Duberstein
time, consultations with the Hill will continue.
17. Hospices: Fuller and Moran will discuss ways of quickly clarifying
Fuller
the Administration position.
Moran
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (5-27-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Joe Holmes: It was noted that Joe Holmes passed away last night,
Jenkins
and a moment of silence was held in his memory. A Presidential
Hickey
statement is being prepared, and Ed Hickey will pass on any in-
formation on funeral arrangements.
2.
Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during the Nakasone
Speakes
meeting and departure for Williamsburg. Also, it was decided to
Clark
hold any announcement of Dick Stone's plans until next Tuesday.
3.
El Salvador: There has been no change in guidance regarding the
Speakes
murder of a U.S. advisor.
4.
School Prayer: It was suggested that Senator Hatch be invited to
Meese
the WH to attempt to resolve different views on this issue.
Duberstein
5.
Social Security Disability: DOD and PSI are attempting to assist
Harper
Roy Benavidez, who was awarded the Medal of Honor by the President,
Fuller
and who is being cut from the Social Security disability rolls.
On the general problem, it was noted that the process of removing
certain people from the rolls was begun by Carter, though we accel-
erated the process. It was decided that the WH should take a
second look at this policy, and will consider revisions proposed
by HHS.
6.
Textiles: Fuller will handle follow-up on issues raised by the
Fuller
textile industry in a recent meeting.
7.
Presidential Letter to NEA: It was decided that the American
Darman
Federation of Teachers will be sent a copy of the President's
Fuller
letter.
8.
Brucellosis: Fuller will remain in touch with USDA regarding the
Fuller
possibility of a brucellosis quarantine being imposed on Texas.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-6-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Award of Lifesaving Medal and spelling bee event
Speakes
will be today's photo õps.
2.
Cabinet Activity: Cabinet will meet with the President on Wednes-
Fuller
day at 2:00 to discuss ICC, health and safety of federal employees,
and other subjects.
3.
Legislative Calendar: The Senate will consider IMF authorization
Duberstein
and the FY '83 supplemental this week. The House will consider a
series of appropriations bills and covert activity in Nicaragua;
it will also hold a hearing on CBI and mark-up domestic content
legislation. On Wednesday, the conference committee on the budget
is expected to convene. Also, the Democratic caucus will discuss
capping the tax cut at $700.
4.
Social Security Disability: HHS will probably hold a press con-
Fuller
ference tomorrow to announce our reform proposals. Congressional
Gergen
hearings will begin Thursday on this subject.
5.
Civil Rights Commission: Attention was drawn to an article by
Shanker in the New York Times which was felt to be generally posi-
tive on this subject.
6.
Ambassador Habib: It was mentioned that there is no truth to news
Speakes
reports that Habib will be stepping down. His return to the U.S.
is simply for consultations.
7.
Summit: Regarding speculation about a possible Reagan-Andropov
summit, it was stressed that staff should not comment on the sub-
ject.
It was also mentioned that recent news articles about disagreements
between NSC and the State Department are not helpful, and staff
were asked to cooperate in refuting such rumors.
8.
Arms Control: NSC meeting on START will be held tomorrow. Assis-
Clark
tance from the Communications office will be required in order to
Gergen
plan for post-meeting press questions.
9.
Budget: It was mentioned that Congressman Jim Jones had stated
Speakes
that the President was calling for a $280B tax increase. However,
we should make clear that our increase is contingent on not achiev-
ing the necessary level of spending cuts.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-7-83)
ACTION
ITEMS
1.
Today's Schedule: A meeting with the President will be held at
Speakes
9:15 to discuss the supplemental appropriations bill. With regard
Whittlesey
to the NSC meeting, it was noted that no decision will be made
today on START. Also, the meeting with Max Fischer will probably
go ahead as originally planned.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: A photo op will be held during the meeting
Speakes
with the Philadelphia 76ers.
3.
Tax Cut: The Democratic Caucus meets today to discuss capping
Duberstein
the tax cut at $700. Some GOP House members will argue against
the idea today on the floor. It was also suggested that we make
clear that the Democratic proposal is really a tax increase, and
should be termed as such.
Social Security Disability: Reform proposals have been approved,
Fuller
4.
and will be announced by HHS at 2:00 today.
5.
PIK Program: It was mentioned that this program is requiring un-
Wright
expected outlays for wheat purchases. Questions should be referred
Speakes
to USDA.
6.
Nicaragua: Regarding the expulsion of three U.S. diplomats, we are
Clark
still considering our response. A statement should be ready before
Allin
today's press briefing.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-8-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Arms control statement meeting with Philadelphia Speakes
76ers, and lunch with education leaders will be photo ops. Also,
a photo will be taken during the 9:30 meeting with Lebanese FM.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Regarding the education event in Minneapolis, Fuller
the President will make brief remarks and will then engage in a
discussion.
3. Cabinet Meeting: Today's meeting will deal with federal employees', Fuller
health and safety, and federal cash management practices.
4.
Supplemental: This will be considered today in the Senate.
Duberstein
5. PIK Program: Secretary Block will be in the WH today for a discus- Fuller
sion of this subject. It is expected that USDA will later issue a
statement.
6.
Radio Marti: This will be marked-up today in the House, and we ex-
Duberstein
pect a positive outcome. Senate mark-up has been postponed due to
today's leadership meeting.
7.
American Association of University Women: It was pointed out that
the President has not turned down the organization's invitation,
though there are problems with the time of the event which may make
it difficult for the President to speak.
8.
Tax Cut: It was mentioned that the Democratic Caucus did not take
Duberstein
a position on O'Neill's suggestion for capping the tax cut at $700.
9.
President's Roundtable on Capital Formation: A meeting will be held Harper
with this group on Friday. The group itself is a USIA project.
10. FHA: It was noted that the FHA mortgage rate rose by 1/2%.
11. School Prayer: We have still not received an answer from Senator
Duberstein
Hatch regarding the letter we sent him.
12. Education: Today's lunch will be for purposes of discussing merit
Fuller
pay and other issues with the AFT. A later meeting with NEA repre-
sentatives may also be held.
13. Social Security Disability: It appears that HHS efforts to explain
our reform proposals are going well.
14. Textiles: As follow-up to a meeting with industry representatives, Fuller
it has been decided that we will bring someone from Commerce into
the WH for 30-60 days in order to develop a plan for dealing with
the growth in textile imports.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-9-83)
ACTION
ITEMS
Tomorrow's Schedule: A White House photo will be taken during
Speakes
1.
tomorrow's lunch with The Roundtable.
2.
Legistlative Calendar: It was mentioned that the IMF authori-
Duberstein
zation has passed the Senate, and that Radio Marti has been
reported by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Also,
Hatch plans to mark-up school prayer today, and he will be
asked to report out both versions.
3.
Supplemental: Hatfield reportedly will not delete money from
Duberstein
this on the Senate floor, but feels he can hold the line and
then cut in conference committee. We are still sending a
veto signal, though we should keep a low public profile for
now.
Budget: Guidance continues to be that it is hard to see how
Duberstein
4.
the conference can produce an acceptable result given the two
Speakes
versions with which it is dealing. We will continue to seek
responsible budgetary levels through the appropriations process
and, if necessary, through use of the veto.
5.
ICC Deregulation: It was suggested that various White House
Rollins
offices should look closely at the current proposal on this.
Cicconi
The central question involves the speed of continued deregulation
efforts.
6.
Acid Rain: The importance of this issue was re-emphasized in
the wake of a new government study.
7.
British Elections: We should know the results by mid-afternoon.
Clark
A paper will be ready by late morning re suggested timing and
content of a statement.
8.
Minneapolis Trip: It was mentioned that Walter Mondale will
Gergen
also be in Minnesota today delivering a speech which is critical
Fuller
of our education program. Secretary Bell will be prepared to
respond.
9.
US Conference of Mayors: Will meet next week in Denver.
Verstandig
Several Cabinet members will attend, as well as appropriate
White House staff.
10. Presidential Travel: It was stressed that no decision has yet
Clark
been made on foreign travel.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-10-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Call to Thatcher will be made this morning.
Clark
Also, a White House photo will be taken during the Roundtable
Speakes
lunch.
2.
Saturday Radio Talk: The President will discuss Interior
Gergen
Department policies on wilderness areas and coal leasing.
3.
Economic Figures: The Producer Price Index is up 0.3%, and
Feldstein
retail sales are up 2.1%.
4.
School Prayer: Both proposals were reported out by Hatch's
Duberstein
Subcommittee. We are now assessing sentiment in the full
Judiciary Committee, where a vote is scheduled in two weeks.
5.
Supplemental: A series of amendments are now being considered.
Duberstein
The bill itself will probably be passed next Tuesday.
6.
Radio Marti: This passed the House Foreign Affairs Committee
Duberstein
yesterday.
7.
MX: O'Neill has decided to postpone the MX portion of the
Duberstein
defense authorization bill until after the July 4 recess.
8.
Central America: Regarding reports on planning for six airfields
Speakes
in Honduras, guidance is that the Administration currently has no
Allin
plans for such airfields.
9.
Scowcroft Commission: An executive order extending the life of
Darman
the Commission will be signed shortly.
Clark
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-13-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held with PM Hawke at 11:30
Speakes
and 1:30. Guidance re the congressional meeting is that it will
be a broad discussion with members of the House Foreign Operations
Committee. Also, WH photos will be taken during the Baltic
Americans reception.
2.
Cabinet: Meeting today at 2:00 will discuss food stamp regulatory
Fuller
reform.
3.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Photo op will be held during the Flag Day
Speakes
event. Also, the GOP leadership meeting has been cancelled; two
separate congressional meetings will be held in its place.
4.
Foreign Assistance: Regarding aid to Israel, the Administration's
Clark
position is that we will not oppose an increase of up to $200M
Duberstein
provided the overall foreign assistance total is raised accordingly.
Wright
However, Congress is adding amounts well over $200M. The issue
will be discussed with the President today at 9:30.
5.
Education: It was mentioned that the President has not yet seen
Gergen
a draft of the speech to be delivered in Albuquerque.
Darman
Regarding the President's remarks in Minneapolis, the transcript
Fuller
supports the fact that the President laid out the bulk of our edu-
Speakes
cation program. However, it should also be pointed out that the
purpose of current trips is to listen. Fuller will work with OMB
and Education to make sure that figures previously provided to the
President on education spending are correct.
6.
Legislative Calendar: The supplemental will be considered on the
Duberstein
Senate floor, followed by withholding. The budget is still in con-
ference committee. Secretary Regan will testify on taxes tomorrow
in Ways and Means; Fuller will double-check on planned testimony.
Also, it was noted that Adelman will testify five times this week
on our new START proposals.
7.
Cable TV Deregulation: This has been introduced in the Senate, and
Meese
will probably pass. DOC supports the bill. OMB does not oppose
Wright
it, but would like some adjustments. This will be discussed at
8:30, with a signal to the Hill by noon.
8.
Infanticide: A meeting will be held at 10:15 today to discuss new
Fuller
proposed regulations.
9.
U.S. Conference of Mayors: Facts will be gathered for guidance
Fuller
purposes re various resolutions passed by the Conference, including
Darman
those on AIDS and infrastructure repair.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-14-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: Flag Day event will be a photo op.
Speakes
2.
El Salvador: Regarding Rep. Long's comments, guidance remains the
Speakes
same, i.e., that we favor a dialogue leading to elections. Clark
Clark
and Secretary Shultz will meet to discuss next steps to be under-
taken by Ambassador Stone.
3.
Legislative Calendar: Consideration of the defense authorization
Duberstein
bill begins today on the House floor. Also, Secretary Regan will
testify today on taxes before the Ways and Means Committee.
4.
Education: It was emphasized that we should not become bogged
Speakes
down in a dispute over facts and figures. The key issue is the
Fuller
decline in educational quality despite major spending increases
over the years. With regard to today's trip, Gary Jones will be
aboard the press plane to answer questions on our program.
5.
Timber: Fuller will check on the status of the Administration de-
Fuller
cision on timber contracts in the Northwest.
6.
LULAC: It was suggested that we arrange for an Administration
Gergen
spokesman to appear at the LULAC National Convention on July 1.
7.
Budget Review Board: A modification has been approved in the EPA
Darman
budget request. Senator Garn will be informed this morning. How-
Duberstein
ever, we will not publicize the decision since our increase is only
Speakes
half as large as that proposed in the House The facts will be con-
veyed to Larry Speakes.
8.
U.S. Conference of Mayors: While hunger has been made an issue by
Neal
some publications, it has not been a major issue at the Conference.
Instead, most discussion has centered on the tax cut.
9.
Civil Rights Commission: Figures on minority appointments cited in
Fuller
recent Commission report will be checked.
Regarding a recent letter from Jesse Jackson about our nominations
Darman
to the Commission, a response has been drafted. However, it will
Fielding
be signed by someone other than the President.
10. Drug Interdiction: A copy of a critical report by the GAO is being
Murphy
obtained. Also, it was noted that the Vice President will deliver
Speakes
a speech this Friday on the general subject. Regarding today's
Post story, guidance is that we are using all available resources
to combat the drug traffic; no further comment is necessary.
11.
Space Shuttle: The plane trip to the launch is now full. However,
Fuller
Fuller's office is coordinating a similar plane trip to the landing
of the shuttle.
12. Budget: The conference committee is making some progress in its
Wright
negotiations, though they have not yet taken up the military por-
Duberstein
tions of the budget.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-15-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: The President returns today at 4:35.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: A photo op will be held during the presenta-
Speakes
tion of medals to Presidential scholars.
3.
Cabinet: A decision has not yet been made on whether tomorrow's
Fuller
Cabinet time will be used.
4.
Defense Authorization Bill: The major amendment debated today in
Duberstein
the House will concern binary weapons.
5.
Supplemental: This is still being debated in the Senate.
Duberstein
6.
Civil Rights Commission: Regarding report criticizing our stance
Allin
on the Grove City case, guidance is that questions should be re-
ferred to DOJ since it is pending litigation.
7.
DOJ Affirmative Action Plan: Dunlop will talk with Schmults re
Dunlop
news report that EEOC has rejected a DOJ plan on handicapped hiring,
and that plans on veterans and minorities have still not been for-
warded. The issue should be taken care of as soon as possible.
8.
Industrial Production: Figures for May are up 1.1%.
Feldstein
9.
Insurance Discrimination: This legislation is still pending in the
Duberstein
House Energy and Commerce Committee. The Administration has not yet
taken a position on it, though the bill is expected to pass.
10. Target Price Freeze: This is being considered by the Senate Agri-
Duberstein
culture Committee. Several calls to members have been requested.
11. U.S. Conference of Mayors: It was noted that a group of mayors
Verstandig
will probably fight efforts to limit the tax cut when the issue is
debated. Regarding previous reports on inefficiencies in the dis-
tribution of surplus foods, USDA plans to clarify procedures and
conduct briefings for the mayors.
12. IMF Authorization Bill: This is included as a provision in the
Duberstein
Senate's supplemental appropriations bill, though it is not in the
House version. Rep. Long and Rep. St. Germain are suggesting dif-
ferent means for considering the issue.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-16-83)
ACTION
ITEMS
1.
Today's Schedule: A photo op will be held during Presidential
Speakes
Scholars event on the South Lawn. Also, a decision will be made re
Gergen
press coverage during Atlantic Salmon and United Negro College Fund
events.
2.
Tomorrow's Schedule: Knights of Columbus event will be a photo op.
Speakes
3.
Saturday Radio Speech: A draft is now circulating tying the shuttle
Gergen
launch in with education.
Darman
4.
Supreme Court Decisions on Abortion: Harper will convene a meeting
Harper
to discuss a possible WH response.
Defense Authorization Bill: Though funding for chemical weapons
Duberstein
5.
production was defeated in the House, the vote was much closer than
last year.
6.
DOJ Affirmative Action Plans: Fuller will check with Justice on
Fuller
their plans to promptly resolve this matter.
7.
U.S. Conference of Mayors: Though a resolution was approved to
Verstandig
roll-back the tax cuts, the vote was only 53-44. The President may
be asked to place a few calls to thank our supporters within the
organization. Verstandig is working with USDA on follow-up actions
regarding distribution of surplus food in the cities (this was a
point of critism during the Conference).
8.
Housing Starts: The figure for May will be out at 2:30 today, and
Feldstein
will be up sharply over April.
9.
Budget Conference: The committee is trying to wind up work late
Duberstein
today. A contingency fund for domestic spending is a key point of
contention.
10. Legislative Calendar: The Senate will finish work today on the sup- Duberstein
plemental, and will then take up withholding. The defense authori-
zation bill is still being considered on the House floor.
11. Textiles: It has been agreed that an official from Commerce will
Fuller
be detailed to the WH to formulate a plan for more effective en-
forcement of existing textile agreements. Fuller will see to it that
Thurmond, Helms and Campbell are all notified today of our action.
12. Tax Cut: Ways and Means meets today, and will probably report out
Duberstein
a bill to cap the tax cut. The committee vote is expected to be
Darman
close, and it is expected that we will be able to wage a strong
fight on the House floor. Darman will coordinate efforts on this
measure by the outreach offices.
Senior Staff Meeting Action Items (6-16-83)
Page 2 of 2
ITEMS
ACTION
13. Subpoena of Interior Department Documents: Fielding has been in
Fielding
touch with Interior regarding the subpoena by a House subcommittee.
14. WH Detailees: It was mentioned that the House may subpoena infor-
Darman
mation on WHO use of detailees. Accordingly, senior staff were
Rogers
asked to be cautious in adding detailees to their staffs, especially
in light of the President's pledge to reduce the size of the WH
staff.
15. Child Support Enforcement: The President has not yet made a deci-
Duberstein
sion on this issue. Testimony to be delivered on the Hill does not
Fuller
mention an Administration position, though if asked we will state
that our views will soon be announced.
16. Death Benefits for Firefighters: It was mentioned that this issue
Wright
is again surfacing in Congress. For now, we will maintain the same
position of neutrality we took last year.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-17-83)
ITEM
ACTIONS
1.
Today's Schedule: Photo ops will be held during Pres-
Speakes
ident Magana's visit. Also, photos will be taken during
the Knights of Columbus event for use by the Catholic
press.
2.
Saturday Radio Speech: This has gone in to the Pres-
Gergen
ident.
Darman
3.
Withholding: A modified repeal was passed by the
Duberstein
Senate, with CBI and enterprise zones attached; no
Gergen
date has yet been set for a conference. Gergen will
consider some means of highlighting our achievement in
getting CBI and enterprise zones passed (though the former
has an objectionable provision which we will try to
remove in conference).
4.
Budget Conference: Work may be concluded this weekend,
Duberstein
with the resolution being considered on the House floor
Wednesday and the Senate floor Thursday.
Regarding Secretary Weinberger's letter to Senator Tower,
he has a right to suggest that the Armed Services Committee
not be bound by the level of defense spending in the budget
resolution. Committees are authorized to waive such
levels when they feel it is warranted.
5.
Tax Cut: Ways and Means has reported out a cap on the
Duberstein
tax cut by a vote of 18-15; the bill will be taken up
Gergen
Thursday on the House floor. We should point out that
this is, in effect, a tax increase, and that it dispro-
portionately impacts the middle class and families with
working spouses.
6.
Drug Interdiction: The Vice-President will deliver a
Murphy
speech today at 12:15 announcing a series of steps on
Speakes
this. Guidance has been forwarded to Speakes.
7.
Bankruptcy: Trent Lott is pushing a compromise in the
Duberstien
House to which we have no objection. Speed is con-
Fielding
sidered especially important on this issue.
8.
Crime Package: Justice has the action on this, and
Duberstein
is pushing to get it scheduled in the Senate Judiciary
Committee.
9.
Civil Rights Commission: Confirmation hearings on our
Duberstein
three nominees have been set for June 30.
10. Compensation for Japanese-Americans: A commission has
Speakes
recommended to Congress that Nisei interned during
Harper
World War II be compensated a total of $1.5 billion.
Wright
Guidance is that we have just received the report,
and will take it under review. It can be pointed out
though, that the commission officially reports to
Congress, not to the executive. OMB and OPD will review
the commission's recommendation.
11. Legislation Allowing Leaseback Arrangement: Senator
Meese
Helms added a provision to a technical amendments bill
Baker
that would allow a leaseback arrangement by a North
Darman
Carolina school. OMB, Treasury, and CCEA have recommended
a veto. However, another option is to sign the bill
while objecting to the provision and stating our
intention of seeking legislation to address the over-
all problem. Since a decision must be made today,
both options will be discussed this morning with the
President.
12. Timber Contracts: This issue will be discussed next
Feldstein
week in a Cabinet Council meeting. Efforts will be
Dunlop
made to see that a CEA report is ready by then.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-20-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Today's Schedule: A WH photo will be taken during meeting with
Speakes
Habib at 9:30; a full photo op will be held during meeting with
Ambassador Stone at 9:45.
2.
Cabinet Activity: CCMA will meet with the President at 1:00 today
Dunlop
on Reform 88, federal field structure, and work space management.
Cabinet Council meeting with the President will also be held tomor-
row (on synfuels and the 1984 PIK program) and Friday (on economic
outlook and housing).
3.
Legislative Calendar: The House will be considering the military
Duberstein
construction bill and the DOT authorization; on Thursday, efforts
to cap the tax cut will be taken up on the floor; and Ways and Means
has tentatively scheduled a mark-up on CBI for tomorrow. Also, it
was noted that the budget conference must conclude work by 9:00
tonight.
Economic Figures: Personal income figures will be released today,
Feldstein
4.
the 2nd quarter "flash" GNP will be out tomorrow, and CPI will be
Gergen
released Wednesday. Gergen will consider a communications strategy
regarding these figures, which we expect to be favorable.
5.
Social Security Disability: It was mentioned that Roy Benavidez
Duberstein
will testify on this today in a hearing sponsored by the Committee
Harper
on Aging.
6.
Pornography: The Working Group on Pornography will hold a briefing
Dunlop
today at 3:00 on this problem, with particular emphasis on child
pornography.
7.
News Story re Ambassador Stone: It was mentioned that anonymous
quotes in a Washington Times story today not only create problems
with the State Department, but also provoke unwarranted questions
from the press.
SENIOR STAFF MEETING ACTION ITEMS (6-21-83)
ITEMS
ACTION
1.
Presentation by CIA Director Bill Casey: Director Casey made a
presentation on the potential harm resulting from unauthorized
disclosure of classified information. It was agreed that when WH
staff receive word that a news story is being prepared that in-
cludes potentially harmful disclosure of intelligence information,
the CIA External Affairs Office will be notified through Mort
Allin or Bob Sims. It was also noted that WH staff with access
to classified information are subject to polygraph examination.
2.
Today's Schedule: The 4:15 meeting on personnel matters has been
Speakes
postponed. The meeting with PM Gonzalez and the departure will be
Allin
photo ops. A photo op will also be held during the Boston Marathon
Wheelchair Race event, and a WH photo will be taken during the 4:30
meeting with West Berlin Mayor Weiszacker.
3.
Budget Resolution: Guidance will be provided to Speakes regarding
Darman
the conference report approved last night.
Duberstein
4.
Cabinet: Meeting today at 2:00 will discuss synfuels and the 1984
Fuller
PIK program.
5.
GOP Leadership Meeting: Meeting at 9:00 today will discuss the
Duberstein
budget, tax cap proposals, and the supplemental.
6.
GNP: Figures will be out today at 10:00. The 2nd quarter "flash"
Feldstein
figure is up 6.6%, and the 1st quarter revision is up from 2.5%
to 2.6%. Secretary Baldrige is testifying on the figures today be-
fore the Joint Economic Committee.
7.
Social Security Disability: Renewed efforts should be made in
Duberstein
pushing the legislative reforms drafted by HHS. However, many on
the Hill view our proposals as insufficient.
8.
Specialty Steel: A meeting of the Trade Policy Committee will be
Harper
held at 3:30 today on this issue.
Fuller
9.
Advisory Committee on Women's Business Ownership: It has been
Darman
agreed that the President will announce his intention to create
Gergen
this committee during his speech to the NFIB. While the executive
Herrington
order can be signed shortly, no nominees will need to be announced
until later.