Presidential Documents

Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, July 26, 1999 Volume 35—Number 29 Pages 1387–1470

1 Contents

Addresses and Remarks Bill Signings See also Meetings With Foreign Leaders Y2K Act, statement—1431 Camp David, MD, remarks on returning from—1403 Communications to Congress Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty—1424 Albania, emigration policies and trade status, Democratic Business Council dinner—1432 message transmitting report—1415 Democratic National Committee dinner— Deployment of military forces for stabilization 1418 of areas of the former Yugoslavia, letter Iowa reporting—1416 Amos Hiatt Middle School in Des Education, letter on proposed legislation— Moines—1387 1417 Senator Tom Harkin Iraq, U.S. national emergency, message Dinner in Des Moines—1392 transmitting notice—1438 Reception in Des Moines—1397 Libya, U.S. national emergency, message Kennedy, John F., Jr., disappearance of reporting—1415 aircraft—1403 Legal community representatives—1426 Communications to Federal Agencies Michigan Delegation of authority, memorandum—1405 Medicare, conversation in Lansing—1453 Military compensation, ninth quadrennial Overflow crowd in Lansing—1466 review, memorandum—1437 Patients’ Bill of Rights—1391 Radio address—1401 Executive Orders Women’s Leadership Forum dinner—1432 Further Amendments to Executive Order Women’s World Cup soccer champion U.S. 12757, Implementation of the Enterprise team—1405 for the Americas Initiative—1467

(Continued on the inside of the back cover.)

Editor’s Note: The President was in Cincinnati, OH, on July 23, the closing date of this issue. Releases and announcements issued by the Office of the Press Secretary but not received in time for inclusion in this issue will be printed next week.

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; 1 CFR Part 10). PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, materials released by the White House during the preceding Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The week. charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- There are no restrictions on the republication of material lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under ments.

2 Contents—Continued

Interviews With the News Media See also Bill Signings Exchanges with reporters Crime rate statistics—1403 Iowa, Des Moines—1391 House action Rose Garden—1424 ‘‘African Growth and Opportunity Act’’— News conferences 1392 July 19 (No. 178) with Prime Minister Republican tax plan—1466 Barak of Israel —1406 Representative Michael P. Forbes, decision to July 21 (No. 179)—1438 join Democratic Party—1402 Senate action on hate crimes legislation—1467 Joint Statements Senate inaction on nomination for Assistant Joint Statement by President Clinton and Attorney General, Civil Rights Division— Prime Minister Ehud Barak—1412 1453 Meetings With Foreign Leaders Supplementary Materials Israel, Prime Minister Barak—1403, 1406, Acts approved by the President—1470 1412 Checklist of White House press releases— Notices 1470 Digest of other White House Continuation of Iraqi Emergency—1437 announcements—1468 Statements by the President Nominations submitted to the Senate—1469

3 Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, July 26, 1999 Volume 35—Number 29 Pages 1387–1470

1387 Contents

(Continued on the inside of the back cover.)

1388 Contents—Continued

1389 Week Ending Friday, July 23, 1999

Remarks at Amos Hiatt Middle porter of education. And I think it is appro- School in Des Moines, Iowa priate that he’s here because he’s here with July 16, 1999 his wife, Dody, and I’d like to her to stand, because yesterday she retired as a teacher The President. You know, when Tom after 31 years. Thank you very much, bless Harkin said that anybody with any sense you. Thank you. [Applause] would take their coat off—[laughter]—I And I want to acknowledge that Ruth didn’t know whether that meant I didn’t have Harkin is here with Tom today, and to tell any sense or he just gets hot under the collar you that for most of my administration she quicker than I do. [Laughter] Actually, I was a very valuable member of the Clinton- think the answer is a lighter suit. Gore team and played a major role in our I am delighted to be here, and I thank economic programs. And I want to thank her. you all for your wonderful welcome. And I And finally, let me say that, as you can don’t mind that it’s a warm one. I always love see, every time he talks, there is no one in coming to Iowa, coming back here to this the United States Senate who is more pas- wonderful city. I want to thank Ruth Ann sionate about what he believes than Tom Gaines for her dedication and her remark- Harkin. And he believes in the education of able remarks this morning. I want to say that our children. It’s easy to understand why, as long as young people like Catherine from his own experience. Most of you prob- Swoboda are exhibit A for Iowa education, ably know that his father was a coal miner this country is going to do just fine. I thought who didn’t finish the eighth grade; his moth- she was terrific. er was an immigrant with little formal edu- I thank Secretary Riley for coming with cation. Thanks to an ROTC scholarship, he me. Many of you in Iowa may not know it, put himself through college. Now he sits next but Dick Riley and I began our careers as to a Rockefeller in the United States Senate. Governors together 20 years ago this year, [Laughter] It’s America, and Tom Harkin is and we’ve been working at education for a the best of America. long, long time. I think that history will You know, I must say, Jay Rockefeller al- record that he is the finest Secretary of Edu- ways hates it when we do that to him. cation this country has ever had. And I’m [Laughter] He is also a very good man. And very grateful to him, and I thank him. you heard Tom Harkin say that because of I would like to thank Superintendent his efforts, Iowa will receive another $10 mil- Witherspoon and your principal, Gary lion this year to help renovate schools. But Eyerly, for welcoming us to this school. And I want to do that for all our schools that need I want to thank all the public officials who it. are here. I know in addition to the Governor I want to thank some people who are in- we have Lieutenant Governor Pederson, At- volved in this issue who are not here today: torney General Miller, Secretary of State Congressman Charles Rangel, the House Culver, and State Treasurer Fitzgerald. sponsor of our school bill; the many members They’re all over there. I thank them for join- of the AFT, the NEA, the Council of Great ing me today. And Senate Minority Leader City Schools; the building and construction Michael Gronstal, thank you all for being trades who have fanned out to Philadelphia, here. New York, New Orleans, Buffalo, Houston, I’d like to say a special word of apprecia- Chicago, and Miami today to roll up their tion to my good friend Congressman sleeves and help communities begin to repair Leonard Boswell, who is also a stout sup- their neediest schools.

1387 1388 July 16 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

You know, it is ironic that we’re here talk- when they will have children in these ing about this school issue, because we are schools? in America in the last year of the 20th cen- That is what I want to say. You know, you tury, in this millennium, enjoying the longest folks should be glad to see me in Iowa. I’m peacetime economic expansion in our his- the only guy that’s been here in weeks that’s tory, nearly 19 million new jobs in the last not running for anything. [Laughter] What 61⁄2 years, the lowest unemployment rate in I am doing is trying to think about everything 30 years, the lowest crime rate in 26 years, we can possibly do in these last days of this the lowest welfare rolls in 30 years, the lowest century. The Clinton-Gore administration is minority unemployment ever recorded, the not running out the clock, hoping the good highest homeownership in history. times will last. We are trying to push the ball Here in Iowa, unemployment is a whop- down the field. We are trying to think about ping 2.6 percent. Homeownership is almost what it takes to build that bridge to tomorrow at 75 percent. Wages are rising nationwide that all our children can walk across, what for the first time in 20 years for all classes it would take to give opportunity to all of of workers, and even faster here. I feel good our people, to build a community of all of about that. I feel good about the fact that our people, to maintain our Nation’s leadership for peace and freedom and prosperity compared to 61⁄2 years ago the air and water are cleaner, the food is safer, and 90 percent around the world, to look at the long-term of our children are immunized against seri- challenges. ous childhood diseases for the first time in I’ll just mention three today, to get to the the entire history of our country. school construction issue. But you have to understand where the school construction I feel good about the 100,000 young peo- issue is; you have to see it as a part of the ple who have signed up to serve their com- big debate going on in Washington: What are munities in AmeriCorps and earn money to we going to do with our prosperity? How go to college. I am grateful, with the help should we handle this surplus, the one we of people like Tom Harkin and Leonard have today and the one we’re projected to Boswell, that this administration has been have tomorrow? Otherwise, you couldn’t able to preserve or set aside more land for begin to figure out why in the world we just the American people and our children’s fu- don’t do this. I mean, you must all be sitting ture, from the California redwoods to the out there thinking this is a no-brainer, just Mojave Desert to the Florida Everglades from what everybody else has already said than any administration in history, except before I got up here. those of Franklin and Theodore Roosevelt. I believe that when you look at where we I am grateful for all of that. were just 61⁄2 years ago, we had quadrupled But what I came here to ask you is, what the national debt in 12 years. The deficit was are we going to do with our prosperity, and $280 billion. It was projected to go to 380 what are we going to do with our surplus? this year. Now we have the biggest surplus This is a time of confidence and pride. But, we’ve ever recorded, and we’re projected to as many people have said, the time to fix the be able to maintain those surpluses into the roof is when the Sun is shining. And that future, indefinitely. is literally true in the case of school construc- Now, every farmer here knows that notion. body can predict the future. That does not Are we going to develop some sort of col- mean that every year we’ll have exactly what lective amnesia and pretend that these times is predicted. What it means is, if we have have always been here, always will be here, predictable economic performances, which is and we can do whatever we want to do that every so often we’ll have a downturn, and feels best in the moment, or seems most po- then we’ll have an upturn, then we’ll have litically popular? Or are we going to think a downturn, then we’ll have an upturn, on about the children here and the 21st century average, we will produce the surpluses we and what America will be like 10 years from project to produce over the next 15 years. now, 20 years from now, 30 years from now, That’s what it means. These projections are Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 16 1389 not based on everything will be hunky-dory row of worldwide record harvests for the first every day of the next 15 years. So they’re time in history and an economic collapse in not unrealistic. 1997 in Asia, so markets shrink, the products But we have to decide—since we haven’t go, prices collapse. been in it—did you ever think when I was Audience member. Freedom to farm—— here running in ’92 we would be back here The President. Exactly right. As Senator having a debate about what to do with the Harkin and I warned—Congressman Boswell surplus? [Laughter] This is a high-class prob- and I, we were all three laughing about it— lem. But it’s just as important to get the an- we said, you know, the people who put in swer to a high-class problem right as it is that ‘‘Freedom to Farm Act’’ acted like there to one that you wish you didn’t have to deal never would be a bad year on the farm. And with. It’s not like going to the dentist. But now last year we dealt with it. Today I’m if we don’t handle it right, we’ll be going to going to meet with some of your farmers, the dentist and nobody will give us a shot and we’re working on it. The Vice President to deaden the pain. We have got to deal with called me after he had a chance to meet with this issue in the proper way. some farmers here this week, and we talked Let me just mention three things. We have about it. to deal with the aging of America. Iowa has But the point I want to make is, you have got a high percentage of people over 65. The farmers; you have people in Appalachia; you number of people over 65 will double in 30 have people in the Mississippi Delta; you years. The older we get the more people that have people who live on the Indian reserva- will be drawing Social Security and Medicare tions; you have people who live in the inner and the fewer people will be paying into it. cities; and even though we’re doing better This is not rocket science; this is basic math. than we’ve ever done, there’s still a lot of I believe before we pass a big tax cut we people who aren’t part of this train. And should save Social Security and Medicare there are ways to give everybody a chance and add a prescription drug benefit to Medi- who’s willing to work to be a part of it. That care for the 21st century so that—[ap- ought to be something we do with our pros- plause]—why? That’s going to save every- perity. We ought to give everybody who’s body a lot more money in the long run than willing to work a chance to be a part of that a tax cut. What’s going to happen? What’s prosperity. And I think it’s very important. going to happen if we don’t? This is not just One thing we can do that will help the about the elderly. I’m not just looking out economy more than anything else is, if we for the baby boomers that are going to retire adopt the plan I put out to save the majority in a few years. You know what will happen. of the surplus for Social Security and Medi- How many family stories do you know care, since it’s not needed now—while we right now where parents with little children save it we can pay the debt down so much are also taking care of their parents, because that by 2015, in 16 years, for the first time it’s the right thing to do? But we have Social since 1835, this country can be out of debt. Security and Medicare so that we can bal- If you’re a middle class person, why should ance the responsibilities of the generations you worry about that? Because if we’re out and so that families can take of their own of debt it means lower interest rates; higher needs and look to their children as they go investment; more jobs; higher wages; lower along. So this is not just about the elderly. college loan, credit card, car payment, and This is about the children and grandchildren home mortgage rates. It means a more stable of the baby boom generation. world economy over the long run. It means The second thing we ought to do is take a better environment for farmers and manu- care of the economy. And I would like to facturers and everybody else. It is a good mention just two things, one of which you thing to do. know very well. One is, there is still a lot Now, what I want to tell you is, we can of places in this country that aren’t participat- do all that and still have a tax cut and still ing in the economic recovery. The big prob- invest in education. But we cannot pretend lem on the farm is we’ve had 4 years in a that there are no consequences to proposing 1390 July 16 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 a tax cut that will cut education and prevent body can say, well, we have a school con- us from saving Social Security and Medicare struction proposal—6,000 is better than 644. and mean we can’t pay off the debt and we We’re having the same discussion about can’t do these other things. There are choices teachers. Last year I was thrilled—in the to be made, and we should be thinking about teeth of an election year, we had a bipartisan the children and the future. And as we have agreement to put 100,000 teachers in our proved the last 61⁄2 years, when you do things schools, because the classes are getting big- that are right for the long run, often they ger and it would allow us to lower class size turn out to be right for the short run, as well. in the early grades to an average of 18. We And so I say to you, this school issue is just had another national study come out the a part of this debate, this school construction other day about how important that can be issue. We propose a tax cut to help people and how the learning gains can be perma- save for retirement, take care of long-term nent. And just 2 weeks ago Secretary Riley care needs of their family, take care of their and I announced $1.2 billion to help States child care needs, and also to induce people and local school districts hire the first 30,000 to invest in more school construction with of those 100,000. a big tax break. It is very, very important. But now the majority in Congress wants And you’ve already heard about Iowa’s to back off from that. They have other ways needs. You’ve heard Secretary Riley talk to spend the money. They want to give the about America’s needs. In spite of all—what money out and not guarantee that it will go you have to understand is, the school enroll- to hire new teachers. I feel that if you make ments, as big as they are, are fixing to ex- a promise in an election year, you ought to plode. And we’ve got to do some things about keep it the next year, too. If it was a good it. We’ve got to do what Governor Vilsack idea last year, it’s still a good idea. wants to do everywhere in America. Hardly So I say to you, these are two things that anybody has done as well as he has. We’ve we ought to do. We need to do this school got to hook up all the classrooms in the coun- construction program. We need to finish the try to the Internet. And we’ve got to have work of hiring 100,000 teachers. We need teachers to go into the classrooms—2.1 mil- to finish the work that Governor Vilsack has lion are going to retire over the next few done so much on here of wiring all of our years. Dody is the beginning of a wave in schools. We need to finish these things. It America. And we’ve got to find young people all comes down to this: What do you want to go in there and take their places. And to do with this moment of prosperity? we’ve got to have good facilities for people And let me say one thing—you know, to visit, to learn in. Washington tends to be a more partisan place You know, I can still remember every than most places in America—maybe than schoolroom that I ever was in in my life. And anyplace in America. I’ve done what I could a lot of old schools can be modernized, but to try to unify this country. Most Americans, when you’ve got kids—I’ve been to school whether they’re Republicans or Democrats districts, literally, literally, with one elemen- or independents, that have kids in the schools tary school with 12 housetrailers out behind want them to go to good schools. it. Not one or two. Twelve! I’ll bet you there are a lot of school elec- So we have to deal with this. And there tions in Iowa where Republicans and Demo- are serious consequences to not dealing with crats vote the same way for school bond it. Now, if our school construction initiative issues or on educational proposals. This is not passes as a part of our tax cut proposal and always an ideological issue. This should be our education program, it will help commu- an issue that brings America together. But nities have $25 billion over the next 2 years issues that unify people in the country have for school construction. That’s enough to a way of dividing people in Washington. We build or modernize 6,000 schools. had the same thing happen with the Patients’ Now, if you compare that to the Repub- Bill of Rights; you probably saw that. lican proposal you will see that their plan is We had this crazy idea, we Democrats did, 644 schools. Ours is nearly 10 to 1. So some- that everybody in a managed care plan in Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 16 1391

America ought to be able to see a specialist thought of was ourselves and the next elec- if their doctor said they should see one. Or, tion; we didn’t have the time or money or if they lived in a big city and they got hurt vision to think about you and your future? in an accident, they ought to be able to go We are a better country than that. All of us to the nearest emergency room, not be driv- are, without regard to party. Everywhere else en halfway across town. Or, if their employer but Washington, DC, you would never hear changed managed care providers while a anybody discarding this argument. I implore woman employee was in the middle of a you, help us to get this done this year. The pregnancy or a man or a woman was in chem- children of American deserve 21st century otherapy, they ought to be able to keep their schools. doctor until the treatment was over. Thank you, and God bless you. And if somebody hurts you with a bad decision, you ought to be able to get redress NOTE: The President spoke at 2:25 p.m. in the for it. Now those are rights that I enjoy under gymnasium. In his remarks, he referred to 1998 the Federal Health Care Plan and the Con- Iowa Teacher of the Year Ruth Ann Gaines, who introduced the President; incoming eighth grader gress enjoys and every Federal employee en- Catherine Swoboda; Eric Witherspoon, super- joys. And the Congress—the Republican ma- intendent, Des Moines Independent Public jority’s own budget office said this would add Schools; Gary L. Eyerly, principal, Amos Hiatt at most $2 a month to a managed care pre- Middle School; Gov. Tom Vilsack, Lt. Gov. Sally mium. In the Federal system, it added less Pederson, State Attorney General Tom Miller, than $1 a month when I put them in. Secretary of State Chester J. Culver, and State Now, I don’t know, but I believe in Iowa Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald and State Senator when you go to the doctor’s office, they don’t Michael Gronstal of Iowa; Representative ask you if you’re a Republican or a Democrat. Leonard L. Boswell’s wife, Darlene (Dody); and [Laughter] And I don’t believe when the chil- Senator Tom Harkin’s wife, Ruth, former Presi- dent and Chief Executive Officer, Overseas Pri- dren come to school here they ask you if vate Investment Corporation. The President also you’re a Republican or a Democrat. These referred to the Federal Agriculture Improvement are things that should unify us. And so I ask and Reform Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–127). you to please, please do what you can to talk This item was not received in time for publication to all the members of this congressional dele- in the appropriate issue. gation, ask them to support us on 100,000 teachers, ask them—it’s still not too late to pass the Patients’ Bill of Rights that gives the Exchange With Reporters rest of you the protections we have in Con- in Des Moines gress and the White House and the Federal July 16, 1999 Government. And ask them to make a part of any tax cut plan a school construction ini- Patients’ Bill of Rights Legislation tiative that will build or modernize 6,000 Q. Mr. President, do you have any reaction schools. to Senator Lott’s comments—— You think about this young woman who The President. I can understand why he’d introduced me today. I have seen people like be uncomfortable about what he did. He de- her all across America, marvelous kids in the nied the American people the right to the poorest corners of this country—kids in patient protections he has. So they feel un- schools that are 75 years old that haven’t comfortable. But it’s not too late; they can been fixed, where the kids walk up the steps still change their position. They ought to and they see broken windows every day, think about—it’s not a matter of name call- where there are rooms, in some cases whole ing. Their budget office told him it would floors they can’t even go on. They deserve only cost $2 a month premium. They’ve ig- better. nored their own budget people; they’ve now How in the world can we say to them, we ignored everybody, and they basically signed had the most prosperous time in American up with the health insurance companies history; we had the biggest surplus in history; against all the doctors and all the nurses and we dug ourselves out of debt; but all we all the patients in America and denied other 1392 July 16 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 people what those of us in the Federal Gov- want to thank Tom and Ruth for giving me ernment enjoy. I don’t think it’s right. But the chance to come down here and be with it’s not too late to do right. them. I want to say it’s wonderful to see Con- gressman and Mrs. Smith. He did everything NOTE: The exchange began at approximately 3 he could to educate me about agriculture be- p.m. at Amos Hiatt Middle School. A tape was not available for verification of the content of this fore he left the Congress, and I did the best exchange. This item was not received in time for I could to learn. I’m a little slow, but he’s publication in the appropriate issue. working on me still. [Laughter] Let me say to all of you, first, I want you to know that I wanted to come here to say Statement on House Action on the thank you to the people of Iowa. We had Proposed ‘‘African Growth and a big crowd over at the middle school earlier Opportunity Act’’ today when we were promoting one of the July 16, 1999 many initiatives Tom Harkin is identified with, our efforts to get a modest tax cut I welcome and applaud passage today by through that will lead to $25 billion in con- the House of Representatives of the ‘‘African struction or modification or modernization of Growth and Opportunity Act.’’ This historic 6,000 schools in this country. And so we were initiative will set the foundation for a strong- over there, and there were, I don’t know, er partnership between the United States a few hundred people there. And the and Africa. I urge the Senate to act quickly so that we can strengthen the ties between air-conditioning was out, so the atmosphere our Nation and a continent on the verge of was warm and friendly. [Laughter] Secretary a new era of democracy and prosperity. Riley and I, having come from the Washing- This legislation offers the opportunity for ton heat, felt right at home. increased trade and investment between the And so, anyway, we were there and having United States and Africa—to the mutual a good time. And I said, ‘‘You know, you folks benefit of both. By working with African na- in Iowa ought to be glad to see me; I’m the tions to build their economies, strengthen first guy that’s been here in weeks that’s not democratic government, and increase oppor- running for anything.’’ [Laughter] And I tunities for all the people of Africa, we will must say, after 24 years, most of which—25 help build strong, capable partners with now—most of which time I was running whom we can work to counter the growing every 2 years, it’s a little awkward for me threats of terrorism, crime, environmental to say that. But I want you to know that I degradation, and disease. am profoundly grateful to the people of Iowa for being so good to me and Hillary and the NOTE: This item was not received in time for pub- Vice President and Mrs. Gore, for voting for lication in the appropriate issue. us twice, for supporting our policies, for giving us a chance to serve. Remarks at a Dinner for Senator And the second reason I wanted to come Tom Harkin in Des Moines down here is I love Tom Harkin and I am July 16, 1999 profoundly grateful. You know, I’m not sure—and this is no offense to the people Thank you very much. First of all, thank of Iowa—but I bet you could get elected and you, Jerry, for having me in your home. The reelected Senator from Iowa without being last time, he took me to his golf club; now, the world’s number one opponent of abusive he takes me to his home. I can’t wait for child labor in foreign countries. He just did my third trip. [Laughter] that because he thinks it’s wrong and because Thank you, Linda. Thank you all for being he doesn’t want children anywhere to suffer here. Governor, thanks for spending the day when children everywhere should be going with me, with your Lieutenant Governor and to school and growing up to decent lives. your distinguished array of officials and the Yes, he’s one of the greatest advocates for First Lady from the great State of Iowa. I farmers this country has, and we’ve got an Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 16 1393 earful again today about the terrible dilem- conventionally attractive. Interesting—he mas that our farmers are facing. And there’s had a beautiful wife who was our social stud- a general consensus, I think, on what causes ies teacher, who had a beautiful sister who it. And Tom and I both said back in 1994 was my geometry teacher. [Laughter] or ’5, when they passed that freedom to farm And we were 13, and we were crazy, and bill, that without a safety net this would hap- we were trying to figure out how the world pen sooner or later; unfortunately, sooner works. So old Vernon Dokey says one day came before later. And we have to act there, in science class, he says, ‘‘You kids won’t re- and we will. member a thing I teach you about science, He also is perhaps the foremost advocate but I want you to remember some things I for the disabled in the United States Senate, teach you about life.’’ He said, ‘‘Now, look perhaps one of the two or three foremost at me.’’ He said, ‘‘I want you to know some- advocates for research and development in thing. Every morning, I get up, and I go in new technologies in sciences. There is hardly the bathroom; I throw water in my face; I anybody who serves in either House in the put shaving cream on; I shave my face; I wash United States Congress that has the com- that shaving cream off; I look in the mirror, bination of wide interest, deep knowledge, and I smile, and I say, ‘Vernon, you’re beau- genuine compassion, and effectiveness. I tiful.’’’ [Laughter] And he said, ‘‘Now, if you have rarely known anyone in public office kids remember that, you’ll get a lot further that I thought was as truly good a person in life.’’ [Laughter] and as truly good a public servant as Tom Now, you think about that. Forty years Harkin. And you are very lucky to have him. later, I still remember. So if you notice when And I just want to say a couple of things. I fight with the Republicans, no matter how You’re going to become—Iowa is once again hard I fight with them, I don’t question their at the vortex of America’s political concerns. motives or their patriotism or their love of And everybody is coming here to tell you how country. When I think they’re wrong, I say great they’re going to be if you vote for them. they’re wrong. And one of the things I think we should posit Iowa and New Hampshire, because you is that most everybody who comes here will go first, have a heavy responsibility to help actually believe what they say. Having been to render judgment, if you will, for the coun- criticized, as Tom noted inside, fairly mildly try about not only candidates but issues. for a few years—[laughter]—it has been my What I want to say to you is that I came observation that most people in politics in to the Presidency in 1992, having been Gov- both parties actually pretty much believe ernor of what my predecessor affectionately what they say and believe in what they do called a small Southern State. And I loved and show up every day and try to pretty well every day of it. And to me, politics was about do a good job. ideas, action, and people. It was not about Forty years ago this year, I took eighth Washington rhetoric, personal destruction, grade science from a guy who was a coach and who looked good in the morning paper. and a science teacher named Vernon Dokey. It was about ideas, action, and people. Now, to be charitable, he was not the most And we believed that we could bring new handsome man I had ever seen. And he knew ideas based on old-fashioned Democratic it. He was—he looked sort of like a grizzly philosophy that everybody who was willing bear that had been through a meat grinder, to work for it ought to have opportunity in but walked out. [Laughter] this country; that we had to change to meet And he would come—it wouldn’t be politi- the changes of the time; and that everybody cally correct to do so today, but in those days who was a responsible citizen ought to be it was bearable—he used to smoke these part of America’s community. It was pretty cheap cigars that he had in a cigar holder simple, really. which he would grit in his teeth like that— But if that’s what was guiding you, then [laughter]—and he had this sort of highly we no longer believed that you couldn’t, for prominent, well-chiseled nose, and he was example, balance the budget and still in- a big, burly guy. And he was not particularly crease investment in education; that you 1394 July 16 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 couldn’t have a strong and effective Govern- So I say to you as you think about the fu- ment and reduce the size and burden of Gov- ture of your State and Nation, there is evi- ernment. When you heard Tom say that the dence here. And what I want to say to you Vice President ran our reinventing Govern- is, Tom Harkin and I—I’m not running for ment plan—this is one of those—if you do anything and he’s not running for anything a survey on this, people say, ‘‘I don’t care, right yet—[laughter]—but we and all the I still don’t believe it.’’ People do not believe people that are running who are in public it, but we have the smallest Federal establish- office, we’re still drawing a paycheck from ment since 1962 when John Kennedy was you every 2 weeks, and we should show up President. We have eliminated hundreds of for work, and we should do things. I tell all programs, and you can’t name one of them. the Republicans and Democrats in Washing- I’ll give $5 to anybody in this audience who ton all the time, if we agreed on everything can name two of the hundreds of programs I’m asking us to agree on, there would still we have eliminated. And we have a more vig- be stuff for us to fight about. There will al- orous, more effective Government. ways be something to have a next election We’ve got the longest peacetime expansion on. But we get hired to show up for work. in history, the lowest crime rate in 26 years, Now, the big question we have before us the lowest welfare rolls in 30 years, the lowest today is: What are we going to do with the unemployment rate in 30 years, very high surplus; what are we going to do with this wage growth, high business startups, highest period of bounty we have? And I would homeownership in history, the lowest minor- argue—I don’t want to repeat my whole State ity unemployment in history—all that is only of the Union Address, but I want to tell you, evidence of the important thing: All elections I would argue three things for sure. Number one, we ought to do whatever we can to deal are about tomorrow. All elections are about with the aging of America, because when the tomorrow. And a good record is only evi- baby boomers retire, we’re going to have dence of what will be good in the future— more people retired and fewer people work- however, very important evidence. ing to support them. And if you want the And many of these things we’ve had to seniors of this country to be able to have their fight with our friends on the other side, and Social Security and their Medicare, and you Tom Harkin was always leading the fight. We want them to have it in a way that is secure said we could lower the crime rate, but you and does not bankrupt their children so they had to help these communities put police on can’t afford to raise their grandchildren, now the street and you had to take more guns is the time to set aside most of this surplus out of the hands of criminals. Well, they said, to save Social Security and Medicare and ‘‘If you try to put 100,000 police on the provide a prescription drug benefit with street, it wouldn’t make a lick of difference. Medicare. So I think that is a big deal. And if we checked the backgrounds of people The second thing I think we ought to do that tried to buy handguns in gun shows, all is everything we can to keep this economy you would do is make the hunters mad, and going and then, to reach out and touch the criminals didn’t buy guns at gun shows, any- people who have not been affected by the way.’’ Well, years later, we haven’t inconven- recovery. And let me just say on the first, ienced a single hunter, and 400,000 people— the way I want to save Social Security and 400,000 people—were not able to buy guns, Medicare will keep us from spending that because of their criminal backgrounds, at gun surplus and devote the interest savings on stores. So our arguments were right, and the surplus to making Social Security last theirs were wrong. longer, so we’ll make Social Security last for They said we couldn’t balance the budget, more than 50 years, make Medicare last for and we were going to provoke a recession. more than 25 years, and make the country But we balanced the budget, biggest surplus debt-free in 15 years, for the first time since in history, and we doubled our investment 1835. Now, these are big things. We should in education while we were doing it. So we not wait for another election to deal with have evidence here. these big things. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 16 1395

On the economy, the last thing we’ve got get another ob-gyn to finish your pregnancy. to do is to try to reach the people that aren’t If you are halfway through a difficult chemo- affected by the recovery. There are a lot of therapy treatment, you ought not have to get disabled people, as Tom would tell you, who another oncologist to finish your treatment. want to go to work and could go to work. Now, every physician in this audience will There are still people on welfare who want tell you this happens all the time in America. to go to work, who could go to work. There This is not some radical notion; this happens are whole regions of our country—from Ap- all the time. So all we said was that basically palachia to the Mississippi Delta to the In- everybody in America ought to have the same dian reservations to the inner city—that need protections that I gave all the people in the new investment. And of course, there is the Federal programs—Medicare, Medicaid, the problem of the farm, which you are very well Federal health employees program, the vet- familiar with. erans program—by Executive order. And we But consider the irony of the lowest were actually attacked by our friends in the unemployment rates in the country being in other party. Tom was attacked, because, they Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, all these said, ‘‘Oh, you’re relying on personal stories. farming States where we’re at risk of losing You’re trying to play on the emotions of the a huge percentage of our family farmers un- people.’’ Well, get a life. [Laughter] I mean, less there is both an emergency response and what is politics about anyway? Why are we a different long-term course that they have doing this? available. So I say to you, yes, have the elec- Every time I come to Iowa, I think of two tion; yes, have the debate; but let’s keep on things. One of them I got hit right between working for what’s good for America, and the eyes with today. When I was here for let’s not avoid the big choices, let’s not pre- the flood in 1993, I’d go out to sack my— tend that we don’t have to make them. you know, my sandbags, you were talking We’re in the shape we’re in today because about that—I’d go out and do my sandbag we made the tough choices and we kept at deal. And I look up, and there is this child it, and that’s what the country needs to do. about so big, with a head about so big—huge And that’s the gift I want to give you, is that bones coming out of her eyebrows—very when you see me, you think I’m working and short, large head, knobby elbows, gnarled not enjoying the sunshine of our prosperity. knuckles, knobby knees. This child has brittle The last point I want to make is this— bone disease. She’s 12 years old. She has I thought about this today when I was in been operated on already more than a dozen Iowa. Politics is really personal to me. You times. Her bones shatter at will. She has know, in this debate we just had over the come all the way from Wisconsin to stand Patients’ Bill of Rights, several doctors who in the flood in Iowa to help people who are are here today thanked me for that, thanked putting the sandbags up, literally risking her Tom for fighting for that. Look, here’s the life. issue: More people than not are in managed So I talked to this kid and I said, ‘‘Where care plans. A lot of them have done a lot are you from?’’ And she said—and I said, of good; they’ve cut down on a lot of inflation ‘‘Well, how’s your condition?’’ Because I’ve and health care costs. But if your doctor says seen—you know, she’s actually done pretty you need to see a specialist, no accountant well. There are a lot of children who have should be able to stop your doctor from send- that disease never get out of bed, they have ing you to a specialist. If you get hit in an to be prone for their whole life. But this kid accident, you ought not to have to go by the is up walking. She said, ‘‘I told my parents nearest hospital to one that’s farther way be- I wanted to go down there.’’ She said, ‘‘I can’t cause that’s the one covered by your man- hide my whole life. I’ve got to serve; I’ve aged care plan. Now, if you are working for got to be a citizen; I’ve got to do this like a small business and your small business— everybody else.’’ your employer has to change coverage at Then that child started coming to the Na- some point and you’re 6 months into a dif- tional Institutes of Health for help. Tom ficult pregnancy, you ought not to have to Harkin—you know, all this money is put in 1396 July 16 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 the NIH all these years. So am I playing on chance because of the kind of things he’s your emotions? You bet I am. What else is fought all his public life for. And it is a beau- there? What else is life about? What is poli- tiful story. tics about? This child has a chance at life. So I just ask you to be faithful to your And you know what happened? Six years friend Tom Harkin, to fight for the things later I go to American University and give we believe in. If your friends and neighbors a speech, and here is this girl, beaming, a wonder whether the President is right or freshman at American University, still grow- whether the Republicans are right in saying ing, still getting stronger, still out there taking we ought to take all the non-Social Security chances, doing things other kids wouldn’t do surplus and spend it on a tax cut right now with those problems, being brave. We and make everybody happy right here before didn’t—none of us—Tom Harkin and I the election, tell them that you think we have didn’t have a lick to do with her courage, earned the benefit of the doubt with our her bravery, her heart, her soul, her char- record, and that, you know, we should not acter. But because of what he did, she had squander this. We ought to think about our a better chance. She had a better chance. And I’ll tell you another story: 1992, Cedar children’s future. We ought to think about Rapids, Iowa, huge rally we’re having out in what we’re going to do when the baby front of Quaker Oats. And I’m working the boomers retire. We ought to think about how crowd—[laughter]—after the speech, grasp- we can make everybody a part of this econ- ing for votes. And there is this lady there, omy. And remember the stories. That’s part this tall white woman, holding an African- of what makes us who we are. American baby. And I said, ‘‘Whose baby is It’s not about power. It’s about ideas and this?’’ She said, ‘‘This is my baby.’’ And I action and, in the end, it’s about people. said, ‘‘Well, how did you get this baby?’’ She When you breathe your last breath, you are said, ‘‘From Miami.’’ She said, ‘‘This child not going to be thinking about what some was born with AIDS, and no one would take arcane political philosophy was that you em- her, and she was going to be homeless, and braced. You’re going to be thinking about so I took her.’’ who you liked, who you loved, how you felt Now, this is a good story, right? But what when the seasons changed, and what you’re you need to know is this woman was living proud of that you did for somebody else. And in a rented apartment with her two kids be- I want to be part of a political party that tries cause she had been left by her husband. And to give those gifts to America. she barely had enough money to support her Thank you very much. own kids, but she couldn’t bear to see this child be left alone, so she took in the other child. Okay, fast-forward to today. Today, at NOTE: The President spoke at 7:35 p.m. at a pri- that middle school, Mama was there, since vate residence. In his remarks, he referred to din- remarried, doing fine, with her daughter, giv- ner hosts Jerry and Linda Crawford; Gov. Thomas Vilsack of Iowa, and his wife, Christie; Lt. Gov. ing me a report on her son, holding that Sally Pederson of Iowa; Senator Harkin’s wife, beautiful child who is almost too big for me Ruth, former President and Chief Executive Offi- to hold. And she has come repeatedly to the cer, Overseas Private Investment Corporation; National Institutes of Health. former Congressman Neal Smith and his wife, And I held her today, and I said, ‘‘Jimiya, Beatrix; American University student Brianne how you doing?’’ She is so beautiful. And I Schwantes who suffers from brittle bone disease; have seen her a half a dozen times. She is and Laura Poisel and her adoptive daughter, so beautiful; and she said, ‘‘Oh, Mr. Presi- Jimiya, who was born with AIDS. The President dent, I’m giving myself my own shots, now also referred to the Federal Agriculture Improve- and I’m going to be just fine.’’ ment and Reform Act of 1996 (Public Law 104– Now, is this playing on your emotions? You 127). A tape was not available for verification of bet it is. What is life about anyway? Tom the content of these remarks. This item was not Harkin didn’t put a heart in that little girl received in time for publication in the appropriate or a heart in the mother. But she has a issue. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 16 1397

Remarks at a Reception for Senator I’m here basically for three reasons to- Tom Harkin in Des Moines night. First, I want to thank the people of July 16, 1999 Iowa for being very, very good to me, to Hillary, to Al and Tipper Gore, to our whole Thank you very much. First of all, I’m de- crowd, for voting for us twice, in ’92 and ’96, lighted to be in a true Iowa museum, the for making us always welcome, for always place where Tom Harkin went to his high telling us what was going on here and in the school prom. I’ll tell you, he is a silver- heartland of America. I will never forget that. tongued devil, but when he started talking I have been here a lot, and I have loved every about bringing the love of his life to the high trip. school prom, old Ruth said, ‘‘I don’t know We had several hundred people at the how he is going to get out of this one.’’ school we visited earlier today, and I told [Laughter] Sure enough, there he was on his them all they should actually be quite glad feet again, before you know it. [Laughter] to see me because I was the first person who I want to thank many of you for many had been here in weeks and weeks who things. I want to thank my good friend Sec- wasn’t running for everything. I just wanted retary Dick Riley for coming with me today to come see you and say hello and see how and going to the school in Iowa and talking you were getting along. about the need to build or modernize thou- The second thing I want to do is to thank sands of new schools for America’s children Tom Harkin. You know, I didn’t say this at for the 21st century. I thank him. I want to the other place—Governor Vilsack asked me thank my great friend, and Hillary’s great to repeat my speech. Since I didn’t write it friend, Congressman Leonard Boswell for down, I have hardly any idea what I said; going around with us today and for rep- it’s going to be hard to do. [Laughter] I want resenting Iowa’s farmers and workers and to tell you something. When Tom Harkin and educators and children so well in the House I entered the primaries in ’92, my mother of Representatives. And Dody, thank you for was really the only person who thought I was your 31 years of teaching. Thank you very going to win, and you know, we had this sort much. Thank you, Rob Tully, for your role of spirited race, and I didn’t come to Iowa in making it fun to be a Democrat again in because I didn’t think I should, because you Iowa. Thank you. Thank you, Lieutenant all were for him, and you should have been. Governor Sally Pederson, for your leader- And I sort of admired Tom Harkin from ship. And thank you, Jim Autry. And I’m glad afar, but you really get to know a person— you got a better office because you deserve and he—in Iowa you get to know a person, it, Sally. Thank you. And I want to say to but you get to know a person if you just kind Governor Vilsack and to Christie, this has of travel around and you’re out there, you’re been a very impressive administration to bone tired, and you’re still trying to make watch from afar. one more speech, shake one more hand, go We were—everybody in the White to one more forum. And then I was fortunate House—Hillary and Al and Tipper and I and enough to be elected. He didn’t have to do all of us who work there—we were thrilled anything for me. I want you to know that when Tom was elected, and we have been on every bright and dark day of the last 61⁄2 so impressed by his intelligence and his en- years, my wife and I have not had a better ergy and his direction and his leadership, and friend in the United States Senate than Tom it’s just quite amazing to watch unfold. You Harkin. And I will never forget it. know, you could elect him for 32 years if I want you to know—I also want you to you like and still be just trying to get even know, even more important, for everything with the Republicans. that we have fought for that has made this I want to thank Ruth Harkin for her serv- a better, stronger country, that has given chil- ice in our administration which she left for dren a better future, that has helped to bring more lucrative fields, but I hope not more us together as one community, there is no- rewarding one. She did a wonderful job. Yes, body in the Congress that has a better com- give her a hand. [Applause] bination of intelligence and experience and 1398 July 16 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 heart and sheer ability to get things done an America in the 21st century with oppor- than Tom Harkin. He is a precious asset for tunity for every person responsible enough Iowa and the United States, and I am glad to work for it, an America that was a commu- you are here to support him tonight. nity of people who were very different but He was very generous, he talked about me had a common citizenship and a common hu- going to Switzerland to speak for the children manity, an America that was leading the all over the world who are the subject of abu- world toward peace and freedom and pros- sive child labor. It’s the sort of thing a Presi- perity. We believe that. And we believe that dent is supposed to do. But a person could we could go beyond the paralyzing debates be elected and reelected Senator from Iowa that had put this country in a terrible hole and never say anything about abusive child in 1992, when we were out there running. labor around the world. Tom Harkin was out We thought you could improve the econ- for that issue a long, long time before I was. omy and improve the environment. We I was there because of Tom Harkin and his thought you could make it so people would leadership. succeed at work without being able—and still And today the Governor and Leonard and be able to succeed at home in the most im- Tom and I, we sat around and we met with portant job any American has, raising chil- some farmers—and I want to say more about dren. We thought that you could be tough that in a minute—but we know we’ve got on crime without giving up personal liberty. a terrible problem in farm country all over We thought that you could have sensible gun America. And you can be sure that when control without interfering with people’s something is done to help America’s farmers, right to hunting and fishing and sporting sea- Tom Harkin will be in the forefront of that. son. These are things we thought. He won’t be in the forefront of that. He Now, we thought we could balance the won’t be dragging up the rear; he’ll be there budget and increase our investment in edu- pushing everybody to do more, to do better, cation. We thought we could cut the size of to think through it. And he’ll be—every time Government and increase its effectiveness somebody wants to do something that doesn’t and its impact in ordinary people’s lives. And make a lick of sense based on decades of every step of the way, we were opposed by history on the farm, he will be there to re- people who believe differently. And what I mind people to do the right thing by Ameri- want to say today is that, yes, I’m glad that ca’s farmers. we’ve got 19 million new jobs, the longest You know, he says I’ve been a good Presi- peacetime expansion in history, a 30-year low dent for the disabled of America. I hope I in unemployment, a 30-year low in the wel- have been. But if I have been, half of it is fare rolls, a 26-year low in the crime rolls, because of what I learned from Tom Harkin. the highest homeownership in history, the Let me just close with this—because I lowest minority unemployment in history. hope you will think about this as caucus- I’m glad for all that. I’m glad. But at this goers, but also as American citizens. You moment, I tell you that the people hire us have to ask yourself, why are you here to- to win for them tomorrow. And if we did night? Why do you have the political views a good job yesterday, most taxpayers think you have? What really matters to you? What that’s what they were paying us to do. do you think politics is about? Is it about And the reason I say that is, I am very money and power, primarily, and the kicks grateful that I’ve had the chance to be your you get if you get invited to the White House President and grateful that I have had a or the statehouse or whatever? Or is it about chance to be the instrument of this. But what what I think it’s about? we need to think about is, what are we going I’ll tell you what I think it’s about. I think to do tomorrow? What are we going to do politics is about ideas and action and people. tomorrow? And in particular, what is our ob- And I believe that the reason the country ligation at this moment of enormous prosper- is in the shape it’s in today is in no small ity when we went from having the biggest measure because we had a different set of deficit in history in 1992 to the biggest sur- ideas. We really believe that we could create plus we’ve ever had? What are we going to Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 16 1399 do with it? What are we going to do with stories of people who had been hurt because this opportunity? And there are big decision we don’t have a Patients’ Bill of Rights, and to be made here. they acted like there was something wrong Tom Harkin and I are on one side and because a lot of them think politics is about most of our friends in the other party are power and position. But we think it’s about on the other side. But let me just mention ideas, action, and people. three things, because you want to have fun I saw a little girl today at that school that tonight and you don’t want to have a serious I first met in Iowa in 1992, an African- talk, but I want you to think about three American girl being held by a white woman things. Number one, I’m the oldest of the in a rally in Cedar Rapids. And I asked this baby boomers, and when we retire there’s mother, I said, ‘‘Whose child is this?’’ And going to be a whole bunch of us retired, and she says, ‘‘This is my baby.’’ And I said, there will be more people retired and fewer ‘‘Where did you find this baby?’’ She said, people working than ever before, and we had ‘‘This baby was born in Miami with AIDS, better use this surplus now to save Social Se- and no one would take it, so I did.’’ curity and modernize Medicare for the 21st And I came to find out this woman was century. divorced; her husband had left her; she was Number two, as everybody who knows— raising her own two children with modest in- a farmer knows—not everybody who is a part come; but she cared enough about a child of this country has participated in this recov- she had never known of another race, af- ery. From Appalachia to the Mississippi flicted with AIDS, to take this child into her Delta to the Indian reservation to the inner home. Today, at that school, that child was city to the farm to the disabled and welfare in the audience. She is tall; she is beautiful; populations who still want to go to work, we she got up in my arms, and she said, ‘‘Mr. can’t quit until we put everybody on a track President, I can give myself my own shots to opportunity in this country. And if we set now. I’m doing well in school, and I’m doing aside most of the surplus for Social Security well.’’ And she has gone—the reason she is and Medicare, we can, in 15 years, be debt- still alive is in these 61⁄2 years since I first free for the first time since 1835. That’s what saw her mother holding her—7 years now— we ought to do. she’s been able to come to the National Insti- And finally, we ought to give our children tutes of Health and get good health care, a better future. We ought not—we ought not even though she comes from a family of mod- to squander this surplus in a way that has est needs. Why? Because of the leadership not enabled us to invest in world-class that Tom Harkin has exercised over the years schools, connecting the classrooms to the for health research and other research. Internet, world-class teachers and enough of Now, this is a story—am I trying to affect them to do the job, education. Save Social your emotions? You bet I am. Is that wrong? Security and Medicare first, pay down the No. This is what politics is about to us. When debt, take care of education, then give the I see nurses weeping, weeping because the country a tax cut. That’s what we believe. insurance company tells them that the doctor That’s good for the future. they worked for can’t send a patient that is Now, what I said was—what I said over sitting there in front of them to a specialist there at the other place that I just want to to save their lives—is that somehow illegit- say is, I noticed in the debate over the Pa- imate to make laws based on those stories? tients’ Bill of Rights, where the Republicans No. That’s what counts in life. What we care won the battle in defeating our attempts to about is our relationships with each other, give every American the right to see a spe- whether we’ve all got a chance to live out cialist, go to the nearest emergency room, our dreams and live up to our God-given po- stay with the doctor through treatment, but tential. we will win the war—you—work. I told another story. When I was here in But in this thing—during this debate, the the flood in ’93, I met a little girl when I Republicans, were actually making fun of the was putting those sandbags up that wasn’t Democrats for talking about stories, human even 5 feet tall. But she was already 13 years 1400 July 16 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 old. And her forehead was real big and bony, age you not to miss yours. Why? Because, and her elbows and knees were prominent, I’ll tell you something, the older you get and and her knuckles were, because she lived the closer you get to the end of your life’s with brittle bone disease and had already had journey, the more you know that when it’s more than a dozen operations in her life, and all over, what you really care about is who could have broken all the bones in her body you liked, who was your friend in good times sitting there working with the people stack- and bad, who you loved, how your children ing sandbags. And she came all the way from were, how you felt in the Iowa springtime Wisconsin to do it, because she wanted to and in the fall and the winter and the sum- be a good citizen. And she told her parents mer—all the things that make you alive. she couldn’t hide in her life; she had to do Politics, the purpose of politics, is to allow something; there was a flood, people needed free people to be more fully alive and to help her help, and even though she had bone after each other have better lives. That’s what we bone after bone after bone broken in her believe. And so I say, let them make fun of body, she showed up like everybody else to us for telling our stories. That is all that mat- be a good a citizen in Iowa when the flood ters in the end. There is nothing abstract came. about America. It’s a bunch of people who Now, just a few months ago, I had a rally believe in liberty and who believe in each at American University in Washington, DC— other and who believe that they make life the same girl was there, a freshman in col- better for their children. It is the story of lege, with all of her roommates—up there, people. Even George Washington was a per- still be a good citizen, showing up. Now, why son. So you remember that. You remember do I tell you that? And that child made sev- that. eral trips to the National Institutes of Health I’m going to tell you one thing, and I’ll in the last 61⁄2 years, becoming stronger. Now, did Tom Harkin have anything to let you go. Last week I went to the Pine do with the character of this child? No. Did Ridge Indian Reservation where the Oglala he have anything to do with the heart of the Sioux live. The most famous Oglala Sioux was other little girl with AIDS? No. Did he affect Crazy Horse, and they’re building a great the mother with her generosity and her love? monument to him there, even bigger than No. But did he do things as an elected rep- Mount Rushmore. But the unemployment resentative of you that gave those kids a there today is 73 percent. Before I went out chance to have better lives and make this a there, the chief of the Oglala Sioux and a better country? You bet he did. You bet he number of others came to see me at the did. White House, from the high plains, from So I tell you, people ask why you came Montana and the Dakotas. And they had a here, why you support Tom Harkin, why meeting, and they told me about the prob- you’re a member of our party. Tell them you lems, the problems in their States on the believe that politics and citizenship is about farm. They told me the problems of the Indi- ideas, action, and people. Power and money ans with education and health care and all are incidental—incidental—to the ability to of that. But we had just come out of this advance ideas, take action based on those conflict in Kosovo—we weren’t actually quite ideas, and help people if your actions turn out of it yet. And the chief of the Oglalas out to be right. stood up in a very dignified manner, and he Now, all of you young people, I can tell said, ‘‘Mr. President,’’ he said, ‘‘we have a you, I just celebrated—Sally was talking proclamation supporting your action in about her 30th high school reunion—in a Kosovo against killing people because of their couple of weeks I’m going to have my 35th. religion and their ethnic background.’’ And And I want you to know, by the way, I don’t he smiled in a very dignified way, and he know if I can go to this one because of the said, ‘‘You see, we know something about efforts we’re making in the Balkans, in ethnic cleansing. But listen,’’ he said, ‘‘But Kosovo. But if I miss it, it will be the first this is America.’’ Now listen to this story. He one I’ve ever missed. And I want to encour- said, ‘‘My great-grandfather was massacred Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 17 1401 at Wounded Knee.’’ He said, ‘‘I have two un- The President’s Radio Address cles, one was on the beach at Normandy; the July 17, 1999 other was the first Native American fighter pilot in the entire United States military.’’ Good morning. I want to talk to you today He said, ‘‘Now their nephew, me, I am in about a great debate now underway in Wash- the White House talking to the President. ington, the debate over how best to use I have one son’’—I later met the boy—‘‘I America’s recordbreaking budget surpluses. have one son,’’ he said. ‘‘He is more impor- That we can even have this debate is remark- 1 tant to me than anything in the world. But able. Just remember, 6 ⁄2 years ago, when I I would be honored to have him go and fight first became President, we faced budget defi- for my country against ethnic cleansing in cits that were $290 billion and rising. In the previous 12 years, those deficits had quad- Kosovo. America has come a long way, and rupled the total debt of America. we should stop this wherever we can.’’ But beginning in 1993, we put in place Why do I tell you that? That is a story a new economic strategy of fiscal discipline, about liberty and freedom and the absence coupled with greater investments in areas of oppression passing down through the gen- like education, training, and technology. That erations. That is the story of America. It is strategy has helped to produce a private sec- the unending effort to form a more perfect tor-led economic expansion of historic pro- Union, to widen the circle of opportunity, portions. It’s also produced not only a bal- to deepen the meaning of freedom, to anced budget but budget surpluses of $99 strengthen the bonds of community. That’s billion this year and a projected surplus over what this guy represents to me. That’s what the next 10 years of about $2.9 trillion, in- my party represents to me. That’s the prom- cluding Social Security taxes. ise of the Governor’s administration to me. Now, America must decide how best to That is everything that I have tried to do in use the fruits of our hard work. I believe we these 61⁄2 years. And I am telling you, when should stay with the fiscal discipline that got you walk out of here tonight and somebody us here and invest the surplus to meet our asks you why you were here, you ought to long-term challenges. That’s why I’ve pro- be able to tell them that kind of answer. And posed that we set aside the vast bulk of this you keep fighting for it. And if you do, Ameri- surplus to protect and secure Social Security ca’s best days will be in the new century. and Medicare and to modernize Medicare Thank you, and God bless you. by adding a long-overdue prescription drug benefit. By saving most of the surplus for Medicare NOTE: The President spoke at 8:53 p.m. at the and Social Security, we can also pay off all Val Air Ballroom. In his remarks, he referred to our publicly held debt by the year 2015. That Senator Harkin’s wife, Ruth, former President and would make America debt-free for the first Chief Executive Officer, Overseas Private Invest- time since 1835. What would that mean? It ment Corporation; Representative Leonard L. would mean lower interest rates, more busi- Boswell’s wife, Darlene (Dody); Rob Tully, chair, ness investments, more jobs, higher wages, Iowa State Democratic Party; Lt. Gov. Sally Pederson of Iowa and her husband, James A. lower car payments, lower house payments, Autry; Gov. Tom Vilsack of Iowa and his wife, lower credit card payments, lower student Christie; Laura Poisel and her adoptive daughter, loan payments. Jimiya, who was born with AIDS; and American Now, my balanced budget would do this, University student Brianne Schwantes, who suf- while increasing investments in areas like fers from brittle bone disease. A tape was not education, technology, the environment, and available for verification of the content of these defense. It would also offer a quarter of a remarks. This item was not received in time for trillion dollars in targeted tax cuts to help publication in the appropriate issue. middle income families meet the crucial 1402 July 17 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 needs for child care, for long-term care for pact. And the answer I’ve received is quite aging relatives, for saving for their own re- disturbing. tirement, and tax cuts for inducing people According to the Treasury Department’s to invest in building modern schools or reha- preliminary estimate, the costs of the Repub- bilitating those that exist now, and for invest- lican plan will explode between the year 2010 ing in the areas of our country which have and 2019 from $1 trillion a decade to an un- not yet fully participated in our recovery. imaginable $3 trillion. At the very time the But my plan puts first things first. It says, Nation will be confronting the demographic first strengthen Social Security and Medicare challenge of the baby boom, the Republican and pay down the debt, take care of the baby plan will blow a $3 trillion hole in the Federal boom retirement, take care of our families budget, threatening our ability to secure So- and our children, take care of the long-term cial Security and Medicare for the next gen- challenges to America. Then, we can allocate eration and risking return to the era of defi- the rest of the surplus for other spending pri- cits with high interest rates and economic orities like education and for tax cuts. stagnation. Unfortunately, the plan the Republican Tax cuts that size quite simply are bad eco- leadership put forward this week does not nomic policy. It’s bad not to save Social Secu- do that. Their plan would devote virtually all rity and Medicare; it’s bad not to pay the the non-Social Security surplus, nearly $1 debt off. It is certainly bad to cut education trillion, to a tax cut, while failing to extend at a time when it’s more important to our children’s future than ever. the solvency of Social Security and Medicare So I say to Congress: Put first things first. even by a single day. The plan also doesn’t Set aside most of the surplus for Social Secu- go far enough in paying down the debt, rity and Medicare. Make sure we invest which will mean higher interest rates and a enough in education. Then, together, we can weaker economy down the road. And it budget for the kind of tax cuts we need and would force drastic cuts in areas where we can afford while we pay off the debt and should be investing more. guarantee a strong America in the 21st cen- In education, for instance, I’ve proposed tury. an education and children’s trust fund that This is a very good time for our country. will, among other things, guarantee our abil- We’re on the right path; let’s stay on it, use ity to hire 100,000 new highly trained teach- our surplus wisely, think about our children’s ers to lower class size in the early grades. future. Then the 21st century will be Ameri- Yet early next week, the House Republicans ca’s best days. will offer legislation that would go back on Thanks for listening. the bipartisan commitment both Republicans and Democrats made just last year to the NOTE: The address was recorded at 3:30 p.m. on American people to hire those 100,000 new July 16 in Room 136 at Amos Hiatt Middle School teachers. We’ve hired 30,000 now, or we’ve in Des Moines, IA, for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. given the States and school districts the on July 17. The transcript was made available by money to do that. We shouldn’t go back on the Office of the Press Secretary on July 16 but a commitment that we made last year; that’s was embargoed for release until the broadcast. the wrong way to go. But that isn’t the worst of it. Republican leaders have estimated their Statement on Representative tax plan would cost more than three-quarters Michael P. Forbes’ Decision To Join of a trillion dollars between now and the year the Democratic Party 2010. What they haven’t said is what it would July 17, 1999 cost after 2010 when the baby boomers retire and the need for revenues for Social Security Politics at its best is about ideas, ideas that and Medicare will be most acute. Earlier this lead to real advances for the American peo- week, I asked the Treasury Department to ple. That is why I welcome Congressman Mi- analyze the Republican plan’s long-term im- chael Forbes’ decision to join the Democratic Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 18 1403

Party, a decision based on our shared com- feel the strength of God, the love of their mitment to a vigorous, innovative agenda for friends, and the prayers of their fellow citi- America’s future. zens. Our party is inclusive and committed to Thank you. a new direction for the 21st century. Today we are fighting for the Patients’ Bill of NOTE: The President spoke at 4:13 p.m. on the Rights, for using the surplus first to save So- South Lawn at the White House. In his remarks, cial Security and Medicare and provide sen- he referred to the search and rescue efforts off iors access to prescription drugs, for paying the coast of Martha’s Vineyard, MA, to locate the off our national debt and investing more in aircraft that carried Mr. Kennedy, his wife, and her sister, who were reported missing on July 17. quality education for all our children, and for a responsible middle class tax cut. Michael Forbes has embraced these ideas. The Con- Statement on Crime Rate Statistics gressional Republicans have rejected them. We welcome him to the Democratic Party July 18, 1999 and to the fight for America’s future. Today’s Justice Department statistics con- Michael Forbes has changed parties be- firm that our strategy of more police on the cause he believes it is best for his constitu- street and fewer guns in the hands of crimi- ents, for the people of New York, and for nals is working. Violent crime has now our country. He is joining a party that wel- dropped by 27 percent since 1993, and over- comes independent thinking and the courage all crime has fallen to an unprecedented low. to change. I know he made a hard choice, We should stick to this commonsense strat- but it is the right choice for his constituents, egy. for his own children, and for our Nation. Unfortunately, some in Congress are willing to play politics with our public safety and Remarks on Returning From Camp threaten all of our progress. They want to David, Maryland shut down our successful community policing efforts and riddle our gun laws with dan- July 18, 1999 gerous new loopholes. To keep driving down Disappearance of John F. Kennedy, Jr., the crime rates, Congress should support Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, and Lauren more police on the street and fewer guns, Bessette not more guns on the street and fewer police.

As the search continues, I want to express NOTE: This statement was made available by the our family’s support, and offer our prayers Office of the Press Secretary on July 16 but was and those of all Americans for John Kennedy, embargoed for release until 4:30 p.m., July 18. Jr.; his wife, Carolyn; her sister Lauren; and to their fine families. I also want to thank the Coast Guard and Remarks at a Dinner for Prime all those who have worked so hard in this Minister Ehud Barak of Israel endeavor. July 18, 1999 For more than 40 years now, the Kennedy family has inspired Americans to public serv- I want to, first of all, welcome you all and ice, strengthened our faith in the future, and thank you for braving the rather lengthy re- moved our Nation forward. Through it all ceiving line. Prime Minister Barak has asked they have suffered much, and given more. me to announce that you can relax, because In recent years, in particular, John our speeches will only be half as long as the Kennedy, Jr., and Carolyn have captured our receiving line. [Laughter] imagination and won our affection. I will al- It’s a great pleasure and an honor for ways be grateful for their kindnesses to Hillary and I to welcome the Baraks to the Hillary and Chelsea and me. White House. This is a good day. This is a At this difficult moment, we hope the fam- good day for affirming the eternal friendship ilies of these three fine young people will between Israel and the United States. It is 1404 July 18 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 also a hard day for those of us who are Ameri- Mr. Prime Minister, I know you are more cans, and we offer our prayers for John than ready for the challenge ahead. Ameri- Kennedy, Carolyn Bessette, and Lauren cans know you as a great war hero. They may Bessette and for their families. We are re- not know you as a classical pianist, a systems minded again that life and its possibilities are analyst, a tinkerer who can take apart and fleeting, that we mortals are obliged to be repair any clock, and, I am told, pick any humble and grateful for every day, and to lock. [Laughter] I don’t know what you’re make the most of every day, and that the thinking about for a career change, but— obligation we bear for the search for peace [laughter]. in the Middle East should be assumed with They may not know about your parents’ that clear knowledge. path to Israel, how your father saw his par- Mr. Prime Minister, 12 days ago you spoke ents killed by Cossacks in Lithuania, while to the Knesset, announcing your new govern- you mother’s parents perished in the Holo- ment. Now, I read your speech with great caust. The qualities you have and the experi- interest, particularly your vow that you will, ences you have known have shaped a leader quote, ‘‘not sleep a wink’’ until peace is of extraordinary breadth and depth. A leader achieved. Shortly after you gave that speech who is a decorated warrior but, who, like an- you came here; we went to Camp David; you other decorated warrior, Yitzhak Rabin, has kept me up until 1:45 in the morning. the courage to make peace, the humanity to [Laughter] This is a man who keeps his com- treat old adversaries with dignity and fair- mitments. [Laughter] ness, the wisdom to know that the land which In that speech, you proclaimed that this brought forth the world’s great religions, who moment is, quote, ‘‘a landmark and a turning share a belief in one loving creator, God, that point, a time of reconciliation, a time of cares for us all, surely that region can be a unity, a time of peace.’’ Many years of hard land of milk and honey for all who call it work have brought this day closer—some of home. it done on this very ground. Here Prime Min- President Theodore Roosevelt, also a war- ister Begin and President Sadat, with Presi- rior turned peacemaker, said when he re- dent Carter’s assistance, made peace. Here ceived the Nobel Peace Prize, ‘‘Words count Prime Minister Rabin, Chairman Arafat, and only when they give expression to deeds.’’ King Hussein committed to peace. Here last Much of the hard work of turning words to year, Prime Minister Netanyahu and Chair- deeds remains to be done. I am grateful that man Arafat agreed to build on that commit- the people of Israel have called upon you ment. for your greatest command—to bring to life Now the challenge is to make the promise the cherished dream of shalom, salaam, of those days a reality every day from now peace. on, to implement the Wye accords, to reach Please join me in a toast to Prime Minister a permanent status agreement between Barak, to Nava, to all of the friends of peace Israel and the Palestinian people, to build here, especially to you, Leah Rabin, and to a comprehensive peace for the region, in- the people of Israel. cluding Syria and Lebanon. Mr. Prime Min- ister, you have made it very clear that Israel will keep its commitments. I want to make NOTE: The President spoke at 9:20 p.m. in the South Lawn Pavilion at the White House. In his it equally clear that America will do its part. remarks, he referred to Prime Minister Barak’s And that should include the approval by our wife, Nava; and Leah Rabin, widow of slain Prime Congress of the commitments we made at Minister Yitzhak Rabin. The transcript made avail- Wye to help the parties promote the peace able by the Office of the Press Secretary also in- process. cluded the remarks of Prime Minister Barak. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1405

Memorandum on Delegation United States, and our thoughts and prayers of Authority are with the families of John Kennedy and July 16, 1999 Carolyn and Lauren Bessette. It is at times like this that we really stop to recognize that, Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense as big and diverse as our country is, we can Subject: Delegation of Authority Under come together as a national family. We can Section 1304(b)(2) of the Strom Thurmond come together in sorrow or in joy if it reflects National Defense Authorization Act for the values that we honor most. Fiscal Year 1999 This is one of those moments. The Wom- By the authority vested in me by the Con- en’s World Cup champions, here at the stitution and the laws of the United States White House, brought America to its feet, of America, including section 301 of title 3 had us screaming our lungs out with pride of the United States Code, I hereby delegate and joy. They also didn’t spare us the sus- to the Secretary of Defense the authority pense. [Laughter] But their triumph has vested in me under section 1304(b)(2) of the surely become America’s triumph. We are all Strom Thurmond National Defense Author- proud them, and we are thrilled to have them ization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 (Public Law here at the White House today. 105–261). The authority delegated by this As someone who got to watch the game memorandum may be redelegated not lower at the Rose Bowl, who sat so far on the edge than the Under Secretary level. of my seat I actually almost fell out of the Any reference in this memorandum to the skybox, I can’t help recalling just a few mo- provision of any Act shall be deemed ments of that game. Kristine Lilly heading to include references to any hereafter- away what would have been a game-winning enacted provision of law that is the same or goal for the other side, in overtime. She’s substantially the same as such provision. You not here, but I have to mention Michelle are authorized and directed to publish this Akers charging up and down until she col- memorandum in the Federal Register. lapsed from shear exhaustion. The perfectly William J. Clinton timed leap Briana Scurry made to the left to block China’s third penalty kick. NOTE: This memorandum was released by the I might say, I saw the last three games, Office of the Press Secretary on July 19. and I concluded that if I had to do it all over again, I’d like to be a goalie. [Laughter] No Remarks Honoring the 1999 pressure. [Laughter] Women’s World Cup Champion And of course, Brandi Chastain’s perfect United States Soccer Team shot right into the top right corner of the goal to win the World Cup. July 19, 1999 The day after the game, a lot of us who The President. Good morning. Please be aren’t so young anymore were trying to seated. Hillary and Al and Tipper and I are search the whole cluttered attic of our delighted to welcome all of you here, the memories to try to think if there was ever members of the team, the Members of Con- a time when there had been a more exciting gress, who are here. We want to welcome climax to an athletic event that meant as Marla Messing, the president of the Wom- much to so many. I’m not sure that in my en’s World Cup; Donna de Varona, the chair- lifetime there has been. It’s no wonder that man of the Women’s World Cup Organizing so many young girls like Stefaney Howell Committee. Thank you and—yes, give them here are following the lead of our World Cup a hand. [Applause] And we want to welcome champions. this remarkable team. They are all here, but Over a half million girls and young women two, today; that’s an amazing turnout. Give have begun playing soccer in the 8 years them a hand. [Applause] since America won the World Cup in 1991. We all know this is both a moment of cele- Thanks to these women, America’s passion bration and a moment of sadness for the for women’s soccer and women’s sports in 1406 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 general is growing, and we owe them a lot NOTE: The President spoke at 11:12 a.m. on the for that. South Lawn at the White House. In his remarks, I also can’t help mentioning briefly, again, he referred to Marla Messing, president and chief the role that Title IX has played in all this, executive officer, 1999 Women’s World Cup Or- and for all of you who have supported it, I ganizing Committee; and Duke University men’s basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski. The President thank you very much. I can say this: For the also referred to Title IX—Prohibition of Sex Dis- Clintons and the Gores, the proud parents crimination, part of the Education Amendments of daughters, it is always a wonderful thing of 1972 (Public Law 92–318). to see women finding new ways of expressing their God-given talents and abilities. Because what we want for our children is what I think The President’s News Conference all Americans want for all of our children, With Prime Minister Ehud Barak whether they’re girls or boys, which is a of Israel chance to find their way and to follow their July 19, 1999 dreams. These women have sent a signal, loud and President Clinton. Good afternoon. clear, to millions and millions and millions Please be seated. Prime Minister Barak and of girls that they can follow their dreams. And I have had a very good series of meetings I thank them for that. over the past few days. Of course, we have Now, you will be happy to know I have focused primarily on the Middle East peace exercised some leadership today—it’s over 90 process. We strongly agree that a negotiated degrees out here, and I cut my speech in peace is the best way to make Israel more half. [Laughter] Who’s next? Are you next? secure, the best path to lasting stability and I don’t know who’s next—I think Hillary is prosperity for all the peoples of the Middle next, the First Lady. East. The Prime Minister is determined to ac- At this point, the First Lady, DC SCORES [ celerate that process, to reach with Chairman youth soccer program participant Stefaney Arafat a permanent status agreement be- Howell, Tipper Gore, Vice President Al Gore, tween Israel and the Palestinian people, and and team co-captain Julie Foudy made brief to achieve a broader regional peace that in- remarks. Team co-captain Carla Overbeck cludes Syria and Lebanon. As he has said, then presented several gifts to the Clintons the objective now is to put the peace process and Gores. ] back on all its tracks. The President. You have all been very pa- But we should have no illusions. The way tient in this warm, hot sun. I want to, again, ahead will be difficult. There are hard deci- say thank you all for coming. Thank you for sions to be made. Knowing his long record supporting America’s soccer team. I want to of accomplishment, both as soldier and civil- thank the women on the team. I would be ian, and having spent a good deal of time remiss if I did not say, also, how profoundly with him these past few days, I believe the impressed I was at the quality of their opposi- Prime Minister is ready to move forward de- tion. cisively. And America is clearly ready to help You know, when we had the last NCAA in any way we can. As Israel takes calculated men’s basketball championship, and UConn risks for peace, we will continue to support beat Duke, the Duke coach said something Israel’s defense. I think every coach would like to say. He Today we have agreed to strengthen our said, ‘‘We did not lose this game; we were security assistance to Israel so Israel can best defeated.’’ The German team, the Chinese meet the threats to its citizens, including ter- team, the Brazilian team—they can honestly rorism and the growing threat of long-range say that, too. And this is something happen- missiles and weapons of mass destruction. ing all over the world, for which I am very We’ve also agreed to establish a high-level grateful. And again, I am very grateful that joint planning group to consult on security our women are leading the way. issues and to report back regularly to the Thank you very much. Thank you. Prime Minister and to me personally. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1407

I intend to work closely with our Congress ing the difficult choices that the process re- for expedited approval of a package that in- quires. cludes not only aid to Israel but also assist- I will not shy away from those difficult ance to the Palestinian people and Jordan in choices, but I have responsibility to the peo- the context of implementing the Wye River ple of Israel to do all that I possibly can to agreement. Making Israel stronger and mak- minimize the risks and dangers involved. ing Palestinians and Jordanians more secure From here, I call upon our Arab partners and more prosperous—all these are crucial and their leaders to embark with us together to building a just and lasting peace in the on this historic journey, which requires tough region. choices from all parties. Finally, I want to announce that America Mr. President, Israel and America share and Israel will be taking our partnership to a unique friendship and a very special part- new heights, literally. As part of an effort to nership. Our relationship is built upon com- enhance our scientific cooperation, we will mon values, shared interests, and a mutual create a working group between NASA and vision as to the future of the region. A strong the Israel Space Agency to advance scientific Israeli-American relationship must be the research, educational activities, and the cornerstone on which to build a peaceful peaceful uses of space. And an Israeli astro- Middle East. Mr. President, the road ahead naut and a payload of Israeli instruments will may be long and arduous, but together with fly on a space shuttle mission next year. our peace partners, we can and will make it happen. All these efforts will strengthen the bonds We know, Mr. President, that in the pur- between our two democracies. They will help suit of this sacred mission, a mission of peace, us to build a better future together. I am we can count on your wisdom, experience, proud that Prime Minister Barak is my part- good advice, and continued support all along ner in this work. I look forward to seeing the road. him again soon. For Nava and for myself, thank you again Mr. Prime Minister, the floor is yours. for your warm hospitality accorded us Prime Minister Barak. Mr. President, la- throughout our visit and for your consistent dies and gentlemen. President Clinton and friendship and support. I have just concluded the last in our series Thank you. of meetings. Those meetings were held in President Clinton. Terry [Terence Hunt, an atmosphere of deep friendship and under- Associated Press]. standing that characterizes the bilateral relationship between Israel and the United Middle East Peace Process States. Q. Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. Presi- Our policy is based on the following: We dent, the Prime Minister has committed him- are committed to the renewal of the peace self to implementing the West Bank pull- process. It is our intention to move the proc- back agreed upon at Wye River. You just ess forward simultaneously on all tracks—bi- talked about accelerating the peace process. lateral, the Palestinian, the Syrians, and the Realistically speaking, looking ahead, how Lebanese, as well as the multilateral. We will long before the final status talks get under- leave no stone unturned in our efforts to re- way on the tough issues like Jerusalem, the invigorate the process, which must be based Palestinian hopes for a homeland, refugees? upon direct talks between the parties them- And what specific steps can the United States selves and conducted in an atmosphere of do to facilitate this process? Maybe if each mutual trust. of you could address those. Any unilateral steps, acts or threats of ter- President Clinton. Well, first of all, the rorism, violence, or other forms of aggression United States will continue to do what it has have no place in a process of peace. The done all along. I believe that we should be peace we seek to establish is only the one prepared to support a final status agreement that will enhance the security of Israel. Only in the way we have supported all these other a strong and secure Israel is capable of mak- agreements, going all the way back to Camp 1408 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

David and through those that have been as you know, and a lot of contact with Presi- reached during my tenure. We should sup- dent Asad over the last 61⁄2 years. He knows port the security of Israel, the stability of the very well that I am committed to the peace region, the economic development of the re- process between Israel and Syria, and that gion. And we should help to work out any I believe that he has a golden opportunity of the particular problems as they arise. now to resume that process and that I hope In terms of the timing, I don’t think it’s he will do so. And I intend to reaffirm that for the United States to set the timetables in the appropriate way at the conclusion of here. I think we should just be supportive our meeting. of moving ahead as vigorously as possible. We, too, would like more normal relations But it’s not our role—and shouldn’t be—to with Syria, and we would like Syria to be impose an outside timetable on the process. reconciled to all its neighbors in the region. Prime Minister Barak. We are commit- And I think anything that Syria does to dis- ted to agreements signed by Israeli govern- associate itself from terrorists is a positive ments. We are committed to Wye. We will step in the right direction. implement it. We are committed to the per- Yes, ma’am. Helen [Helen Thomas, manent status negotiations, and we intend to United Press International], you’re next; I’ll go forward and do it. take you next. We have to consider, together with Chair- man Arafat, the way to combine the Wye Future Israeli Security agreement implementation with the pushing Q. Mr. Prime Minister, a question to you. forward of the permanent status negotiations As Israel moves now to resume peace talks and implementation. And we will do exactly with its Arab adversaries, what and who do that in the coming months. you regard as the real existential threats to I would suggest a kind of framework of Israel in the coming century? Do you look about 15 months, within which we will know more toward Iran and Iraq? Do you have whether we have a breakthrough and are different views on these issues than your really going to put an end to the conflict, predecessor? Thank you. or alternatively—I hope this will not be the Prime Minister Barak. Unlike this part case—we are stuck once again. I use the kind of the world, our neighbor—unlike North of framework of 15 months to signal to all America—Western Europe is a very tough publics and ask the players that we are not neighborhood, you know, kind of merciless talking about a miraculous solution, magic so- environment, no second opportunity for lution, that will drop upon us from heaven those who cannot defend themselves. And in 3 weeks, and we do not intend to drag many threats might loom over the horizon our foot for another 3 years. without very long early warning. We, of President Clinton. Want to take a ques- course, see the risk. This is one of the reasons tion from an Israeli journalist? why I’m so determined to do whatever we Prime Minister Barak. Please. can to achieve peace. I spent all my life in uniform fighting for President Hafiz al-Asad of Syria the security of our country, and we know Q. Mr. President, do you intend to have from our experience that by strengthening talks or to meet with President Asad at the Israel and going toward peace, we will reduce present time and maybe shoot for a summit this kind of threat. There are a lot of conven- meeting here with President Asad? tional armed forces around us. If you com- And, Prime Minister Barak, another ques- bine them together it’s more weapon systems tion also on Damascus. Today terrorist orga- in the Middle East than in NATO. And of nizations there were urged to leave the coun- course, the prospect of proliferation of weap- try by the Syrian Government. Is there any ons of mass destruction and missile tech- proof of this news that you heard, and if it’s nology to places like Iran or Iraq create a true, do you see any significance? major threat to the stability of the whole President Clinton. Well, let me answer Middle East, to the free flow of oil from this the first question. I have had regular contact, region that helps to sustain the economies Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1409 of both Europe and Japan, and, of course, Prime Minister Barak. I can just add to to Israel. And we are watching very carefully this that I’m fully confident that when we these kinds of threats. will have something to tell, we will be inter- We do not aspire to eliminate any future viewed by you, and we’ll tell you, and the risk from the globe by making peace with public will know. There will be no secrets our neighbors, but we’re clearly determined when something really happens in the open. to make our future and the future of our On the other part of your question, I did neighbors better by reaching a full agree- not get a real report about this meeting, but ment about peace with all our neighbors if there was such a meeting and the Syrians around. really asked the terror organizations to re- Q. Iraq and Iran, sir? duce their level of activity, if that is true, it Prime Minister Barak. Iran and Iraq is is, of course, good news for all of us. a sources of potential threat to the stability President Clinton. Helen. of the Middle East and to Israel if they reach missile technology, nuclear weapons, and, by Israeli-Palestinian Relations this, the combination to really launch them. Q. Mr. Prime Minister, there’s an expression—— Middle East Peace Process Prime Minister Barak. I awaited you. Q. President Clinton, you have met with [Laughter] Prime Minister Barak for many hours, and Q. ——that if you walk in someone’s moc- we all know that you have concluded some casins, then you’ll know how they really feel. sort of a program to advance the peace proc- If you were walking in a Palestinian’s shoes, ess. Can you please tell us some of these de- how would you feel about occupation, annex- tails that you can tell us? What is expected ation, incarceration for months, for years in the coming days or weeks and when is without a charge, without a trial? the talks between Syria and Israel are going Prime Minister Barak. I was elected to be resumed? Is there any date? Prime Minister of the State of Israel. I’m And a question to Prime Minister Barak, fully focused on the security and future of what is your reaction to the meeting of Abd the Israelis. I am aware that, the same way al-Halim Khaddam in Damascus with a few Palestinian organizations that are imposing that a person cannot choose his parents, a the Olso—the peace process? Do you think nation cannot choose its neighbors. They are that it’s a significant step for peace. there, the Palestinians; we respect them. We President Clinton. First of all, we have want to build a peace with them that will issued a very detailed joint statement. I don’t put an end to the conflict with all the know if you have it yet or not. sufferings that happen on both sides of this Q. I’ve read it, but it doesn’t say specifi- conflict. We are determined to do it. cally what are the coming moves. I believe that focusing on how to solve the President Clinton. That’s right; that’s on problems of the future is a more, may I say, purpose. [Laughter] So you know—some- productive way to consume our time than times in this process, the less you say, the dealing with analyzing past events or their better. Let me say that you know that Prime interpretation. Minister Barak has talked to Chairman Q. Well, they aren’t past. They’re very cur- Arafat, and they intend to talk again. And rent. I have said that I will make it known to Presi- Prime Minister Barak. We are working dent Asad what I consider to be the very sat- on bringing a peace that will create a dif- isfactory results of this meeting and that this ferent environment in the Middle East, and is an important time to restart the peace I am fully focused on this future, rather than process. I think to go beyond that right now on analysis of the past. would be an error on my part. Not because President Clinton. Do you want to take I don’t intend to push ahead in every way another question? I can, but I just think it would be a mistake. Prime Minister Barak. Please. 1410 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

U.S. Role in Middle East Peace Process we are, if we believe they have a good point Q. How do you reconcile between the that I privately and personally communicate Prime Minister’s expectation to get your sup- to the Prime Minister or his designated rep- port to the further negotiations with the Pal- resentatives, it should carry more weight be- estinians, the potential difficulties that Israel cause they know how close we are. will face, with your role as an honest broker? So I don’t see the two things as in conflict. President Clinton. Why are they incon- I think that, in the end, they both have to sistent? I’m not sure I understand the ques- believe they have won or there will be no tion. agreement. If either side believes that it has Q. It’s a cultural gap. lost, why should they agree? Q. No, it’s not cultural gap. President Clinton. No, no, explain the Convicted Spy Jonathan Pollard question. I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be dense, Q. Mr. President, did the subject of but I don’t understand the question. Jonathan Pollard and his possible release Q. We understand that the Prime Minister come up in any form during your discus- strove to get your understanding to Israel’s sions? It’s now 8 months since White House point of view with regard to the negotiations Counsel Chuck Ruff requested the major that he will have with the Palestinians. U.S. Governmental agencies to offer their President Clinton. Yes, that’s correct. opinions on this. Did any of those agencies Q. On the other hand, America is going recommend or indicate that they would rec- to play the role of an honest broker between ommend his release? Israel and the Palestinians. So probably there And, Mr. Prime Minister, did President is a kind of conflict between these two roles. Clinton give you any reason to expect that President Clinton. Oh, I see what you Pollard’s release may be a possibility? mean. Actually, in this case, I disagree with Prime Minister Barak. Maybe I’ll answer that for the following reason. The Prime first, and it will make it more, smoother in Minister has made it clear—this goes a little a way. I clearly want to see Jonathan Pollard bit to the question Helen asked in a general released, but I am of the position that any way—the Prime Minister has made it clear public discussion of this issue doesn’t push that however he proceeds into the future in forward the purpose of having him released. negotiating with the Palestinians that it must For many reasons, this is a subject that all be done by agreement, including the ideas should be dealt with not in public, but at of synchronizing Wye and going to the final most, between the leaders of the two nations. status talks. I’m convinced that at the end President Clinton. One more over here, of the road, anything they could both agree and then we’ll take—Sam [Sam Donaldson, to would be in both their interests. ABC News], you want a question? And I must say, I think—some of you may think this is naive, especially as long as I’ve First Lady’s Position on Middle East been doing this—but I honestly believe that Process the most important element for success for Q. Sir, I’d like to take another crack at an Israeli Prime Minister in negotiating an a question you’ve been asked before. You’ve agreement with the Palestians is being able said that when Mrs. Clinton expresses her to set aside the accumulated burdens of the opinions publicly she’s just doing something past to at least see them with respect and in public which you’ve done in private be- understand how they perceive the legitimacy fore—that is, have disagreements. That’s the of their aspirations. And I have seen that with American way. But when she talks about an this Prime Minister. And I think when you opinion in which she takes the Israeli position do that, then there will be a way to work on Jerusalem, doesn’t this make it more dif- this out. ficult for you to be that honest broker that I think that in a peculiar way, the United one of your colleagues talked about, sir? States can only be of value to the Palestinians President Clinton. No, no. For one because we are so close to Israel. Otherwise, thing—let me say, that issue is not one that— of what value are we to them? And because that’s not the public-private distinction. The Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1411

Government of the United States, the execu- Palestinian State tive branch, the President, is a sponsor of Q. To both of you, Prime Minister Barak the peace process and a facilitator of it. In was mentioning that 15-month framework that context, those of us with positions of offi- for the negotiation; do you see, Mr. Presi- cial responsibility who are all the time asking dent, and you, Prime Minister Barak, a Pal- Israel and the Palestinians, we’re all the time estinian state at the end of this period of asking both sides not to do anything which time? prejudices final status issues—I have taken Prime Minister Barak. I think it’s too the position that my government should not early to think of the results of the negotia- prejudice final status issues. tions about permanent status that were hard- There are many American citizens who ly begun. And I don’t think that you should consider, for example, Jerusalem to be the interpret this 15-month framework as a kind capital of Israel; Israel considers Jerusalem of a deadline where everything should be ei- to be the capital of Israel. You heard the ther fully concluded and implemented, or the Prime Minister say that he hoped that when whole thing is blown up, blown apart. I don’t we had all this worked out, everybody’s Em- think that is the case. bassy would be there. We have this framework in order that dif- The genius, I thought, of the legislation ferent players on different tracks with only which was passed by the Congress and spon- partially transparent membranes between sored I think primarily by Senator Moynihan them could make up their judgment about was that it permitted each individual Mem- what should be concluded in their own track, ber of Congress and, therefore, imposed on vis-a-vis Israel, while taking into account the everybody who might want to be in Congress, fact that the others are continuing. the responsibility of expressing their opinion So without providing them with a certain on it, while allowing the United States to con- timeframe they might be lost or suspicions tinue to be an honest broker through the would be heightened, which as you know, waiver authority so we don’t have to preju- happens very often in the Middle East. So dice the final status issue. in order to produce a certain kind of common The status of Jerusalem is, under the Oslo basis, common framework, and common un- accords, something that the parties them- derstanding about how we intend to move, selves have to work out at the end. So that’s we shaped this timeframe. It could not be my position. I don’t think there is any incon- interpreted as more than this. sistency there at all. I think that anybody who Q. What about the possibility of a Palestin- is ever going to consider being a candidate ian state? for Congress in any place in this country, or Prime Minister Barak. Oh, this was the the Senate, where people care about this, question, I thought—[laughter]. It’s part of might be asked about it. But we have a the permanent status negotiations, and I’m framework in our law, which I think is quite confident that the nature of the Palestinian good, where people can express their opinion entity will emerge quite naturally out of these about it, vote for a law, support the law, but permanent status negotiations. We are con- the President, whoever the President is, is centrating on solving at the same time all the permitted to honor the obligation of the problems that are on the table—the refugees, United States not to prejudice the final status the border, the future of settlements, the issue. problem of Jerusalem. And I don’t think it’s Q. But sir, the thrust—— a very easy task to solve part of the problem Prime Minister Barak. ——of Israeli without solving, at the same time, the other TV—— parts. Q. Sir, may I just follow up? President Clinton. Joe says we were Prime Minister Barak. Please, let the about to draw this to a close. But if you want young lady—beauty before age. [Laughter] to chew on me, I’ll be back Wednesday; I’m not quarreling with your wisdom, but we’re going to have a press conference. look, a young Israeli. [Laughter] Thank you very much. Thank you. 1412 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Oh, wait, wait, I’ll answer the Coast Guard one, a tragedy that I believe touched hearts question. Go ahead. This is important—fur- of billions all around the world. ther—what’s going on for America today, so Thank you. I’ll answer this. Go ahead. President Clinton. Thank you very much.

Search for Wreckage of John F. Kennedy, NOTE: The President’s 178th news conference Jr., Aircraft/Conversations With Kennedy began at 4 p.m. in Presidential Hall (formerly Family Room 450) in the Old Executive Office Building. In his remarks, the President referred to Chair- Q. Mr. President, I’m told that you were man Yasser Arafat of the Palestinian Authority; briefed earlier today by the U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Richard M. Larrabee, USCG, 1st about their search for the wreckage of the Coast Guard District, head of the search and re- Kennedy plane. Can you tell us what the recovery efforts off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard, sults of that are to date? And also, sir, since MA, to locate the missing aircraft that carried the search became a—quote, unquote—‘‘re- John F. Kennedy, Jr., his wife, Carolyn Bessette covery operation’’ last night, have you had Kennedy, and her sister Lauren Bessette. The a chance to speak with any members of the President also referred to Mr. Kennedy’s sister, Kennedy family, and if so, can you relate Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg. Prime Minister Barak referred to his wife, Nava; and Vice Presi- some or all of those conversations? dent Abd al-Halim Khaddam of Syria. President Clinton. Well, let me say, first of all, I did speak with Admiral Larrabee this morning, and again I want to say I think the Joint Statement by President Clinton Coast Guard, the National Transportation and Prime Minister Ehud Barak Safety Board, the FAA, all the State and local July 19, 1999 entities who have worked for them have done quite a fine job here; and I’m grateful to During several days of close consultations, them. the President and the Prime Minister con- He was actually, Admiral Larrabee, some- ducted a comprehensive review of the U.S.- what optimistic that they would eventually Israel bilateral relations, the peace process, be successful in this area they have identi- Israeli as well as regional security, economic fied, in finding further—at least further parts and scientific development and cooperation. of the plane. And I believe it’s appropriate These fruitful discussions have produced im- that this search continue. So I think they’ve portant agreements and understandings in all done a good job. of these areas. I have had, over the last 3 days, several Prime Minister Barak expressed his deep conversations with Senator Kennedy, and I appreciation of President Clinton’s special have talked with Caroline, and I have—but efforts to enhance the U.S.-Israeli relation- I think it would not be appropriate for me ship and advance the cause of peace in the to talk about the merits of it. Middle East. Let me say that John Kennedy and his sis- President Clinton and Prime Minister ter and later his wife, were uncommonly kind Barak have reached a broad new understand- to my daughter and to my wife, and this has ing that significantly enhances the already been a very difficult thing for us, personally, unique bilateral relations between the as well as because of my position. They are United States and Israel, and raises their very strong people, and I think they are car- friendship and cooperation to an even higher rying on as well as any human beings could. level of strategic partnership. This new part- But they need the support and prayers of nership is designed to underpin their joint our country. effort to put an end to the Arab-Israeli con- Thank you. flict and achieve a comprehensive peace in Prime Minister Barak. Allow my please the Middle East. to add to it—to extend on behalf of myself The President and the Prime Minister and the Israeli people our prayers and have agreed on the need to assign a top prior- thoughts to the Kennedy family that faced ity to the pursuit of peace in the Middle East. so many tragedies and now is facing another They have also reached a meeting of Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1413 minds on the desirability of making an inten- Advisory Group (DPAG) to meet the new sive effort to move ahead simultaneously on challenges of WMD, counter proliferation all tracks of the peace process, bilateral and (CP) and theater missile defense (TMD). multilateral, as well as on the important role The Group will coordinate and plan the co- that would be played by the United States operation between the U.S. Department of in support of the process. Defense and the Israeli Ministry of Defense. President Clinton assured Prime Minister In addition, the two leaders agreed on the Barak that the United States would be ready components of the $1.2 billion military aid to assist and contribute in any way it can to package for Israel that the Administration has achieving an historical reconciliation that will already requested from Congress. The Presi- usher in a new era of peace, security, pros- dent assured the Prime Minister of his inten- perity and cooperation in the Middle East. tion to work closely with the Congress to seek In this context, he reiterated the U.S. com- expedited action for funding, starting in FY mitment to help Israel minimize the risks and 1999, for this package to support Israel as costs it incurs as it pursues peace and af- it implements the Wye River Memorandum. firmed the broad U.S. backing that would be The package will have three components: accorded to Israel, to facilitate the pursuit Assistance to the Israeli Defense Forces of peace. as they carry out further redeployments, Recognizing that the U.S.-Israel relation- including projects which will be man- ship serves as a cornerstone for pursuing aged by the U.S. Army Corps of Engi- peace, they vowed to strengthen and deepen neers. this unique relationship, which is based on Assistance in meeting Israel’s broader stra- shared democratic values, bonds of friend- tegic requirements, including Theater ship, common interests and joint cooperation Missile Defense (TMD), helicopters, in so many areas of human endeavor. Presi- and communications equipment and dent Clinton reiterated the steadfast commit- munitions. ment of the United States to Israel’s security, to maintain its qualitative edge, and to Assistance in meeting the increased cost strengthen Israel’s ability to deter and defend of Israeli counter-terrorism efforts. itself, by itself, against any threat or a possible The two leaders also agreed on the impor- combination of threats. tance of spreading the benefits of peace to The United States and Israel will sign a all those who participate in the process. In Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that context, they expressed support for the which will express their joint intention to re- $400 million in assistance to the Palestinian structure U.S. bilateral assistance to Israel. people and $300 million for Jordan that is The MOU will state the United States’ inten- part of the Administration’s request to Con- tion to sustain its annual military assistance gress to support implementation of the Wye to Israel, and incrementally increase its level River Memorandum. by one-third over the next decade to a level President Clinton and Prime Minister of $2.4 billion subject to Congressional con- Barak agreed that Israel faces new challenges sultations and approval. At the same time, in the strategic arena, particularly the pro- the MOU will provide for a gradual phase- liferation of weapons of mass destruction and out of U.S. economic aid to Israel, over a ballistic missiles that threaten to undermine comparable period, as the Israeli economy Israel’s security. In this context, the two lead- grows more robust, less dependent on for- ers agreed to step up the overall bilateral co- eign aid, and more integrated in world mar- operation and coordination, as well as to im- kets plement a number of measures designed to The two leaders also reviewed the status help Israel meet these emerging threats: of the U.S.-Israeli defense relationship and The United States will provide funding for agreed that existing defense channels of co- Israel’s acquisition of a Third Arrow bat- ordination and cooperation work effectively. tery that will enhance the protection of These would have to be further consolidated Israel’s citizens from ballistic missile at- and strengthened under a Defense Policy tacks. 1414 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

The United States and Israel will expand ways to transfer water to arid lands, and to their collaborative efforts to develop manage existing water resources more effi- new technologies and systems designed ciently. A joint task force will explore specific to deal with ballistic missiles. measures that could be carried out in this The two leaders will establish a Strategic domain, and will submit its recommenda- Policy Planning Group (SPPG), com- tions to President Clinton and Prime Min- posed of senior representatives of the ister Barak by the end of 1999. relevant national security entities of The President and the Prime Minister both countries. It will be tasked to de- have also agreed that promoting tourism to velop and submit recommendations on Israel and the entire region presents a unique measures to bolster Israel’s indigenous opportunity to promote cooperation and defense and deterrent capabilities, as spread economic benefits to the peoples of well as the bilateral cooperation to meet the Middle East. Both sides agreed to ex- the strategic threats Israel faces. The plore specific steps to develop this unique SPPG will also consider ways to mini- potential together, and with other interested mize risks and costs, to enhance Israel’s security, and address its other needs re- regional partners and their private sectors, lated to national security which arise in beginning the fall of 1999. the context of steps Israel might take Finally, President Clinton and Prime Min- to achieve a comprehensive peace. The ister Barak agreed that scientific cooperation SPPG will report to the President and between Israel and the United States will the Prime Minister at four month inter- benefit the peoples of both countries, as they vals. The two leaders agreed to meet in enter the 21st century. In this context, they joint session at regular intervals. agreed to enhance cooperation in the peace- Another area of mutual concern that was ful uses of space. A joint working group of discussed between the two leaders was the NASA and the Israel Space Agency (ISA) will growing threat of WMD terrorism. This was be established to develop new areas of joint acknowledged to be an area in which both cooperation, including educational activities, countries stood much to gain from each oth- scientific research and the development of ers knowledge and experience. In order to practical applications in the peaceful use of enhance their capability to deal effectively space for the benefit of people around the with this threat, it was agreed to sign a new world. The President also informed the MOU between their respective national se- Prime Minister that an Israeli astronaut and curity institutions. It would facilitate broad payload of Israeli experiments would fly on cooperation between the various government a shuttle mission in the year 2000. agencies in both countries in all areas associ- Upon concluding the Prime Minister’s ated with preparing and responding to WMD visit, the two leaders expressed their shared terrorism. conviction that these meetings have laid the One specific area of economic cooperation foundations for a vigorous effort to bring an discussed between the two leaders pertains end to the Arab-Israeli conflict, as well as to water resources. They have noted the for even closer American-Israeli ties based growing scarcity of water in the Middle East, on the U.S. ironclad commitment to Israel’s and also recognized the potential inherent in bilateral, as well as regional, cooperation to security. The two leaders called upon the turn water from a potential source of conflict other leaders of the region to lend their sup- into a force of regional stability and prosper- port to this effort to bring comprehensive ity in the region. Toward that end, the United peace, security, and prosperity to the peoples States has pledged to work with Israel, both of the Middle East. bilaterally and with other regional partners and their private sectors, to promote the de- NOTE: An original was not available for verifica- velopment of new and additional sources of tion of the content of this joint statement. water, including desalination, and to examine Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1415

Message to the Congress newal extended the current comprehensive Transmitting a Report on Emigration financial and trade embargo against Libya in Policies and Trade Status of Albania effect since 1986. Under these sanctions, virtually all trade with Libya is prohibited, and July 19, 1999 all assets owned or controlled by the Govern- To the Congress of the United States: ment of Libya in the United States or in the I am submitting an updated report to the possession or control of U.S. persons are Congress concerning the emigration laws and blocked. policies of Albania. The report indicates con- 2. On April 28, 1999, I announced that tinued Albanian compliance with U.S. and the United States will exempt commercial international standards in the area of emigra- sales of agricultural commodities and prod- tion. In fact, Albania has imposed no emigra- ucts, medicine, and medical equipment from tion restrictions, including exit visa require- future unilateral sanctions regimes. In addi- ments, on its population since 1991. tion, my Administration will extend this pol- On December 5, 1997, I determined and icy to existing sanctions programs by modify- reported to the Congress that Albania is not ing licensing policies for currently embar- in violation of the freedom-of-emigration cri- goed countries to permit case-by-case review teria in sections 402 and 409 of the Trade of specific proposals for commercial sales of Act of 1974. That action allowed for the con- these items. Certain restrictions apply. tinuation of normal trade relations status for The Office of Foreign Assets Control Albania and certain other activities without (OFAC) of the Department of the Treasury the requirement of an annual waiver. This is currently drafting amendments to the Lib- semiannual report is submitted as required yan Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. Part by law pursuant to the determination of De- 550 (the Regulations), to implement this ini- cember 5, 1997. tiative. The amended Regulations will provide for the licensing of sales of agricultural William J. Clinton commodities and products, medicine, and The White House, medical supplies to nongovernmental entities July 19, 1999. in Libya or to government procurement agencies and parastatals not affiliated with the coercive organs of that country. The Message to the Congress Reporting amended Regulations will also provide for on the National Emergency With the licensing of all transactions necessary and Respect to Libya incident to licensed sales transactions, such July 19, 1999 as insurance and shipping arrangements. Fi- nancing for the licensed sales transactions To the Congress of the United States: will be permitted in the manner described I hereby report to the Congress on the in the amended Regulations. developments since my last report of Decem- 3. During the reporting period, OFAC re- ber 30, 1998, concerning the national emer- viewed numerous applications for licenses to gency with respect to Libya that was declared authorize transactions under the Regulations. in Executive Order 12543 of January 7, 1986. Consistent with OFAC’s ongoing scrutiny of This report is submitted pursuant to section banking transactions, the largest category of 401(c) of the National Emergencies Act, 50 license approvals (20) involved types of finan- U.S.C. 1641(c); section 204(c) of the Inter- cial transactions that are consistent with U.S. national Emergency Economic Powers Act policy. Most of theses licenses authorized (IEEPA), 50 U.S.C. 1703(c); and section personal remittances not involving Libya be- 505(c) of the International Security and De- tween persons who are not blocked parties velopment Cooperation Act of 1985, 22 to flow through Libyan banks located outside U.S.C. 2349aa–9(c). Libya. Three licenses were issued authoriz- 1. On December 30, 1998, I renewed for ing certain travel-related transactions. One li- another year the national emergency with re- cense was issued to a U.S. firm to allow it spect to Libya pursuant to IEEPA. This re- to protect its intellectual property rights 1416 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 in Libya; another authorized receipt of pay- the Treasury (particularly in the Office of ment for legal services; and a third author- Foreign Assets Control, the Office of the ized payments for telecommunications serv- General Counsel, and the U.S. Customs ices. A total of 26 licenses were issued during Service), the Department of State, and the the reporting period. Department of Commerce. 4. During the current 6-month period, 7. In April 1999, Libya surrendered the OFAC continued to emphasize to the inter- 2 suspects in the Lockerbie bombing for trial national banking community in the United before a Scottish court seated in the Nether- States the importance of identifying and lands. In accordance with UNSCR 748, upon blocking payments made by or on behalf of the suspects’ transfer, UN sanctions were im- Libya. The office worked closely with the mediately suspended. We will insist that banks to assure the effectiveness of interdic- Libya fulfill the remaining UNSCR require- tion software systems used to identify such ments for lifting UN sanctions and are work- payments. During the reporting period, 87 ing with UN Secretary Annan and UN Secu- transactions potentially involving Libya, to- rity Council members to ensure that Libya taling nearly $3.4 million, were interdicted. does so promptly. U.S. unilateral sanctions 5. Since my last report, OFAC has col- remain in force, and I will continue to exer- lected 7 civil monetary penalties totaling cise the powers at my disposal to apply these $38,000 from 2 U.S. financial institutions, 3 sanctions fully and effectively, as long as they companies, and 2 individuals for violations remain appropriate. I will continue to report of the U.S. sanctions against Libya. The viola- periodically to the Congress on significant tions involved export transactions relating to developments as required by law. Libya and dealings in Government of Libya William J. Clinton property or property in which the Govern- The White House, ment of Libya had an interest. July 19, 1999. On April 23, 1999, a foreign national permanent resident in the United States was sentenced by the Federal District court for Letter to Congressional Leaders the Middle District of Florida to 2 years in Reporting on the Deployment of prison and 2 years supervised release for Military Forces for Stabilization of criminal conspiracy to violate economic sanc- Areas of the Former Yugoslavia tions against Libya, Iran, and Iraq. He had July 19, 1999 previously been convicted of violation of the Libyan Sanctions Regulations, the Iranian Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) Transactions Regulations, the Iraqi Sanctions In my report to the Congress of January Regulations, and the Export Administration 19, 1999, I provided further information on Regulations for exportation of industrial the deployment of combat-equipped U.S. equipment to the oil, gas, petrochemical, Armed Forces to Bosnia and other states in water, and power industries of Libya, Iran, the region in order to participate in and sup- and Iraq. port the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Various enforcement actions carried over (NATO)-led Stabilization Force (SFOR), from previous reporting periods have contin- which began its mission and assumed author- ued to be aggressively pursued. Numerous ity from the NATO-led Implementation investigations are ongoing and new reports Force on December 20, 1996. I am providing of violations are being scrutinized. this supplemental report, consistent with the 6. The expenses incurred by the Federal War Powers Resolution, to help ensure that Government in the 6-month period from Jan- the Congress is kept fully informed on con- uary 7 through July 6, 1999, that are directly tinued U.S. contributions in support of attributable to the exercise of powers and au- peacekeeping efforts in the former Yugo- thorities conferred by the declaration of the slavia. Libyan national emergency are estimated at The U.N. Security Council authorized approximately $4.4 million. Personnel costs member states to continue SFOR for a pe- were largely centered in the Department of riod of 12 months in U.N. Security Council Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1417

Resolution 1247 of June 18, 1999. The mis- the region. I will continue to consult closely sion of SFOR is to provide a continued mili- with the Congress regarding our efforts to tary presence in order to deter renewed hos- foster peace and stability in the former Yugo- tilities, stabilize and consolidate the peace in slavia. Bosnia-Herzegovina, and contribute to a se- Sincerely, cure environment to facilitate the civilian im- William J. Clinton plementation process to which SFOR provides broad support within its means and ca- NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis pabilities. Hastert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, The U.S. force contribution to SFOR in and Strom Thurmond, President pro tempore of Bosnia is approximately 6,200. In the first the Senate. half of 1999, all NATO nations and 19 others, including Russia and Ukraine, have provided Letter to Congressional Leaders on military personnel or other support to SFOR. Proposed Education Legislation Most U.S. forces are assigned to Multi- July 19, 1999 national Division, North, centered around the city of Tuzla. In addition, approximately Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Leader:) 2,200 U.S. military personnel are deployed Nothing will do more to prepare all of our to Hungary, Croatia, and Italy in order to people to succeed in the 21st century than provide logistical and other support to strengthening our public schools. That’s why SFOR. The U.S. forces continue to support I am deeply concerned about the legislation SFOR in efforts to apprehend persons in- that the House is preparing to consider that dicted for war crimes. In the last 6 months, undermines a bipartisan commitment to re- U.S. forces have sustained no fatalities. duce class size in the early grades across the The United Nations mandate for the U.N. nation. If the Congress sends me H.R. 1995 Preventive Deployment Force in its current form, I will veto it in order (UNPREDEP) in the Former Yugoslav Re- to protect our nation’s commitment to small- public of Macedonia expired on February 28, er classes and better schools. 1999, and it was not renewed or extended. Last year, Congress came together across The U.S. military contingent that had been party lines to make a down payment to begin deployed to Macedonia as part of hiring 100,000 well-prepared teachers to re- UNPREDEP remained in Macedonia under duce class size to a nationwide average of U.S. operational control in anticipation of 18. Earlier this month, the Education De- providing logistical support to U.S. forces partment released $1.2 billion in grants to that could support future NATO operations help states and local school districts begin in the area. That contingent subsequently re- hiring the first 30,000 well-trained teachers deployed and was replaced with other U.S. for the new school year. Now is the time to forces more suited for this possible support work together to keep our bipartisan commit- mission. The new contingent has been incor- ment on class size, not walk away from it. porated into the U.S. national support ele- After all, research confirms what parents ment operating in Macedonia that, as I re- and teachers understand: smaller classes with ported in my letter to the Congress of June well-prepared teachers have a lasting impact 12, 1999, is supporting the International Se- on student achievement, with the greatest curity Presence in Kosovo (KFOR). benefits for lower achieving, minority, and I have directed the participation of U.S. poor children. Armed Forces in these operations pursuant Earlier this year, I sent to Congress my to my constitutional authority to conduct proposal to reauthorize the Elementary and U.S. foreign relations and as Commander in Secondary Education Act that would help all Chief and Chief Executive, and in accord- students reach high standards by strengthen- ance with various statutory authorities. I am ing accountability, improving teacher quality, providing this report as part of my efforts and building on our progress to reduce class to keep the Congress fully informed about size in the early grades all across America. developments in Bosnia and other states in Regrettably, in its current form, H.R. 1418 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

1995 abolishes a dedicated funding stream I would not be here, my good friend Harold for class size reduction and replaces it with Ickes. And Janice Enright, who’s also here, a block grant that fails to guarantee that any thank you very much. funding will be used for hiring new teachers And I’m delighted to see all of you, but to reduce class size. It eliminates the focus I’m especially glad tonight to see emerging on early grades where smaller classes make from his own rather unique diet control plan, the most difference and help children learn Gerry McEntee—[laughter]—thank you for to read and master the basics. Moreover, the coming back to us tonight. Thank you. I told block grant could be used simply to replace him how good he looked, and he said, ‘‘I state or local funding instead of increasing don’t recommend it to anybody.’’ [Laughter] overall investment in our public schools. I Let me say the most important thing I can urge the House to approve a substitute meas- say to you is thanks—thank you for being so ure that I understand will be offered by Rep- good to me and to Al Gore, to Hillary, to resentative Martinez, that would improve Tipper, to our entire administration. We are teacher quality and maintain our commit- very grateful to you. And thank you for fight- ment to the class-size reduction effort begun ing not only for your own members, but for last year. the interests of Americans everywhere who Last year we made a promise to America’s are not fortunate enough to belong to an or- children to provide smaller classes with well- ganized group who can give them voice. prepared teachers. I urge Congress to keep I sat down 3 or 4 years ago—I wish I had that promise by enacting legislation that im- done it again tonight before I came here— proves our nation’s schools by ensuring great- just one day I had a little time in my office er investments in education, improved teach- and I wrote down the list of all the things er quality, and smaller classes all across that the labor movement was fighting for, America. with me and the Congress. And only about Sincerely, half of them directly affected your members. Bill Clinton Most of our members wouldn’t benefit from an increase in the minimum wage. Most of NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis your members even had family and medical Hastert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, leave. Most of your members had the health and Richard A. Gephardt, minority leader, House care protections you were trying to get for of Representatives. An original was not available other people. And I wish that more Ameri- for verification of the content of this letter. cans knew how much time and effort and money you spend doing things because you Remarks at a Democratic National believe that you’ll be better off if the rest Committee Dinner of America is better off. July 19, 1999 And I guess—I was in the home of a very wealthy man in Florida a couple of days Thank you very much. John, that was so ago—well, what’s today—Monday—4 or 5 nice—I hope somebody got a tape of it. days ago—who said that he had stayed a [Laughter] Next time somebody gets mad at Democrat all these years because he really me, I’ll just turn the tape on and play it. thought he’d be better off if everybody else [Laughter] was better off. And I think that is the fun- I want to thank you and all your officers damental issue. and Governor Romer and all the people from We were talking around the table here. I the DNC here. I’d like to say a special word have a friend who is the head of one of Amer- of appreciation to some people who are here, ica’s largest companies, one of America’s without whom I could not do my job: my most profitable companies, who told me that political director, Minyon Moore; and Karen he had taken to going around New York tell- Tramontano, who’s done so much work with ing his fellow business executives, if you paid all of you. I thank them for being here. And more in taxes in 1993 than you’ve made in someone who’s here who spends more time the stock market since, by all means support with you than me now, but without whom the Republicans in 2000. [Laughter] But if Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1419 you didn’t, you better stick with us, and you’ll legislation working its way through Congress, do well. [Laughter] I thought it was an inter- there should or should not be a continued, esting argument. profound commitment to the Community One of the things that I would like to em- Reinvestment Act, that basically says, if phasize tonight, as we look at where we are you’ve got a bank and a community and you today and we look to the future, is that the take the community’s paychecks as invest- ideas that we have fought for and the issues ments in your bank, you need to make invest- we have fought for and the initiatives we have ments in that community. The law was pushed are no longer seriously a matter of passed in 1977. But it was pretty well mori- debate. And that is something that you ought bund until we took office. Over 95 percent to share not only with your members, but of the community investment, $17 billion, they ought to share with their friends and made in the 22 years of that law have been neighbors in every community in this coun- made in the 61⁄2 years that I’ve been in of- try. fice—investing money into poor areas and in It is no longer open to debate whether we neighborhoods and to businesses that nor- were right to reduce the deficit while we mally couldn’t get credit. doubled investment in education and train- Unbelievably enough, there are people in ing, starting in 1993. We do have nearly 19 the Congress trying to weaken that law. Our million jobs, the longest peacetime expansion financial institutions have never been in history, the highest homeownership in his- healthier—for obvious reasons. The more tory, the lowest minority unemployment ever you spread economic opportunity, the better recorded, the lowest welfare rolls in 30 years. the rest of us do. And we have always be- It’s not open to debate now. It’s not open lieved, as Democrats, that if we widen the to debate that the approach we took on circle of opportunity, if we broaden the crime, which was to prevent as much as we meaning of our freedom, if we reward every could, put more police out there, focus on responsible citizen, if we create a community taking guns away from people with criminal that’s a bigger and bigger and bigger tent records, get our kids more prevention, and where everybody who is doing right has a then, punish more severely the relatively small number of people who commit a very chance to do well, then our country will be high percentage of the crime—we have the stronger in ways that go way beyond econom- lowest crime rate in 26 years. It’s not a matter ics. of debate anymore. And I think this is impor- And every single indicator of social tant. health—from unemployment to the rates of Our country is better for the fact that we teen pregnancy and drug abuse and smok- have cleaner air, cleaner water, safer food, ing—is going in the right direction. Not be- 90 percent of our kids immunized against se- cause all of us are always right on every issue, rious childhood illnesses for the first time in not even because all of us agree on every the entire history of the country. So we have issue; but our animating philosophy is we will a lot, all of us together, to be proud of. And make the changes necessary to fit America helping other people to do well turns out to for the 21st century and we will do it in a be better for all of us. way that gives everybody a chance to do well John mentioned all those labor issues. If and helps us to grow together, not grow you really go back and dissect every issue apart. And I think that is profoundly impor- he mentioned, basically, the contrary posi- tant. tion, the people that were against us were But what I think we should think about arguing to their people, if we just take a little in the next year and a half, as we continue more away from the working people we’ll be to fight to move forward in Congress and as better off. Well, the truth is, they’re doing we go out into the country in a new political very well because the working people have season, is saying to people, this is not a matter more. of debate anymore. The evidence is in. The We’re in a big debate in the Congress right argument cannot be refuted. We have shown now about whether, in the financial reform you that this is right. 1420 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

And if you look at where we are now— And what happened? For the first time— I’d just like to mention two or three things. did you ever believe you’d see an article We’ve got a lot of issues before us in Con- which said that the doctors of the country gress. But if I might, let me just start with are thinking about joining a union, organizing the lamentable defeat of the Patients’ Bill of a union? Did you ever think? Why? This is Rights in the Senate. Now, why in the world not rocket science. If we’re going to move would anybody be against that? Well, you saw into the 21st century, should we manage our all the ads, and they say, ‘‘Oh, this is going health care system as well as possible? You to really raise health insurance premiums, bet we should. Is there a person in this room and we wouldn’t want to do that and reduce or in this country that has a vested interest the number of people with health insurance.’’ in seeing a dollar wasted when people’s lives Remember, that’s what they said—they said, are at stake? Of course not. ‘‘You know, if you vote for Bill Clinton’s Take McEntee—suppose—no, look, wait health program, the number of people with a minute. Suppose he goes to a doctor at health insurance will go down.’’ Remember an HMO and says, well, you might have a they said that? ‘‘And the number of people little blockage, come back in 6 months and being insured by the Government will go I’ll decide whether you should see a specialist up.’’ And as one Democrat said the other or not. Wait a minute. This is the kind of day, he said, ‘‘I voted for Bill Clinton’s health thing that happens all the time. The doctor insurance program and, sure enough, the says, ‘‘I think you should see a specialist;’’ number of people with health insurance went the person at the HMO says, ‘‘No, I’m not down and the number of people the Govern- sure.’’ And I’ve got a lot of sympathy—I’ve ment was insuring went up.’’ That’s exactly said this a million times—I’ve got a lot of what has happened. Why? Because of the sympathy for those young employees at the cost of the burden. HMO’s. Those of us who aren’t so young any- Now, again, this was an argument where more, put yourself in their position—suppose you had rhetoric and money on one side and you’re 25 years old and you’re the first entry reality on the other. I put in the protections point on the claim. What do you know if you of the Patients’ Bill of Rights by Executive like your job? You will never get in trouble order for everybody covered by the Federal for saying no. Right? You never get in trouble Government—Federal employees, the veter- for saying, no. They’ll just kick the decision ans, people on Medicare and Medicaid, they up. And you think, ‘‘Well, sooner or later this all have it. Do you know what it cost us? Less than a buck—a buck—a month a pre- will get to a doctor and if I’m wrong, the mium. doctor will do right.’’ Now, it may take too long and the damage may be irreparable. And then the Republicans had the Con- gressional Budget Office estimate the cost of So we said, let the doctors make the call. the Patients’ Bill of Rights in the private sec- Maybe they’ll do it when they shouldn’t, but tor. And you will all remember all the argu- it’s worth the risk to save lives and to save ments we’ve had over the Congressional quality of life and to save health care. We Budget Office, right, as they have—they’ve said that if you get hurt—God forbid—going erected a veritable statue of truth for the out to dinner tonight, a car runs up on the Congressional Budget Office. So the CBO curb and hits you, you ought to go to the comes in and says, well, it might cost $2 a nearest emergency room, not the one your month. And then all of a sudden the CBO plan happens to cover. And we said that if was like Rodney Dangerfield and the Repub- you’re 6-months pregnant and you’re having lican caucus—no respect any more. And they a difficult pregnancy, and you work for a just discarded it, said, ‘‘Well, I don’t believe small business and your employer has to it; I don’t believe the evidence, I don’t be- change plans in the middle of your preg- lieve the study by my own people; I don’t nancy, you shouldn’t be forced to change believe it. I believe what the health insurers your ob-gyn, your obstetrician. You shouldn’t told me.’’ be forced to. Or if you’re in the middle of Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1421 a chemotherapy treatment which may deter- one they say they’re for. And we won’t pay mine whether you live or not—which is trau- the debt off. matic enough anyway—and your employer What I have done is to ask the American has to change providers, you ought to at least people to think about today, but also think finish the treatment. about 10 and 20 years from today—what And all this stuff would cost, they said, two made us strong. And I just mention three bucks a month. So what harm could it do things: the aging of America, the education to give that kind of peace of mind to the of our children, and the health of our econ- country? But the HMO’s said, no, so they omy. beat it. Now, I think the HMO’s would be The aging of America means that we’ll better off if America were healthier. I mean, have twice as many people over 65 in 30 we’d all pay premiums, and they’d get to years as we do today—twice as many. I hope keep more of them because they wouldn’t to be one of them. And we’ll have more peo- have to spend as much on hospital bills and ple drawing Social Security and Medicare surgical bills. It’s just what I think. and fewer people working. How are we going I believe that we ought to always think to bridge the gap? We have to make some about what’s best for the largest number of changes in the programs, but we also have our people and the rest of us are going to to put more money into Medicare. do fine. And if you look at the decisions fac- Now, my plan saves most of the surplus ing us over this budget—the big issues here for Social Security and Medicare. It also involve a debate that if I had told you in ’92, makes some reforms in Medicare that re- when you were helping me get elected Presi- quire people to pay more for the co-pay for dent, we’d be talking about now, you’d say, the lab tests that often are overdone, and a ‘‘You know, I like that young fellow, but he’s modest increase in the part B premium ac- crazy.’’ [Laughter] If I had said to you, vote cording to inflation—which is pretty small, for me and in 6 years we’ll be debating what anyway—but in return, gets rid of all the co- to do with this surplus—you think about it; pay for all the preventive screenings that we had a $290 billion deficit, we quadrupled keep us alive and keep us healthy in the first the debt in 12 years—I say, ‘‘I want you to place, and starts a modest, but important, vote for me because we’ll have a huge debate prescription drug benefit which would pay 6 years from now about what to do with the half the cost of prescription drugs, up to surplus’’—you’ll say ‘‘That kid is too nuts to $5,000, for most beneficiaries, and will give be President.’’ You will never be for him. subsidies up to 150 percent of the poverty Right? level and require no co-pay up to 130 per- So, we’re having the debate. And what cent, and no premium. they say is, don’t let—we seem to have an Now, I think this is a good thing to do. agreement, although it’s not complete, on not I think it will save money over the long run. spending the Social Security tax portion of It will keep people out of hospitals. It will the surplus, and putting that against Social keep people out of surgery. It will help peo- Security. And that’s a very good thing, I don’t ple who are going to live longer anyway to want to minimize that—although, the agree- live better, as well as helping a lot of people ment is not complete. But then they say, to prolong their lives. And it will relieve— ‘‘Well, we’ll spend the rest of the surplus on it is not just a program for the elderly, be- a tax cut, we’ll give the people back their cause it will relieve their children of the fi- money.’’ It’s very appealing—and that their nancial burden of caring for them so they tax cut is bigger than our tax cut. can invest their money raising their grand- What they don’t say is to fund their tax children. cut you can do nothing to add a day to the So I believe that we should save Social Se- life of the Medicare Trust Fund, with the curity and Medicare first. Then I believe we baby boomers coming down the pike. You should continue what we’ve been doing the will have to have massive cuts in education last 6 years, our investments in the things and other domestic spending. They can’t that are fundamental to our future, especially even fund my defense budget, much less the the education of our children. You know, by 1422 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 next year we’ll have every classroom in this ship is at an all-time high and construction country hooked up to the Internet. And be- is doing well. cause of the E-rate we’ll be able to subsidize Now, one of the big debates we have in the poor schools, so even the poorest chil- the White House and in the Treasury De- dren will be able to take advantage of that. partment is, how can you keep this economic That means that it won’t matter as much as growth going with unemployment under 5 it used to if they don’t have enough books percent for 2 years in a row without inflation? in the school library. All they’ve got to have One way is to extend that to the areas that is that hook-up and a printer and they will haven’t felt it—because you get more work- have just as much access to what is in the ers and more consumers and, therefore, you great libraries of the world as children in the won’t have inflation. You’ll just be literally wealthiest schools in this country. And I think adding to the whole rounded economic pic- it’s important. ture. We gave this HOPE scholarship, this So I have asked the Congress, yes, to fund $1,500 tax credit for the first 2 years of col- a second round of the empowerment zone lege, and tax credits for the other years of program the Vice President has done such higher education. And we’ve got a proposal a brilliant job of running; but also to pass now that will provide people access to funds laws which would give people the same fi- for a lifetime of training. And I think we nancial incentives to invest in the poor areas should continue to do this. I think this is im- of America we give them today to invest in portant. I don’t believe that we, in this time poor areas overseas—from the Caribbean to of good economic fortune, should have a tax Latin America to Africa to Asia. That is im- cut that is so big it would require us to cut portant. And that’s something we ought to education when, plainly, we need to continue do. And our friends in the Republican Party to invest in it. ought to be for this. They always say they And the third thing I want to talk about want tax incentives to do everything—this is is the health of the economy itself. You know, one where I agree with them, because we I used to carry around with me a sort of 10 should lower the relative risk of taking a rules of politics. And one of my rules of poli- chance in a place that has not known this tics was, when someone tells you it’s not a recovery. But anybody who analyzes it will money problem, they’re talking about some- tell you this is the number one opportunity body else’s problem. [Laughter] They’re we have to keep this economy going. never talking about their own problem. Life And the last thing I want to say about that is far more than economics and politics is is, if you adopt our plan for saving the sur- about more, but this is a better country in plus, most of it—for Social Security and no small measure because more good people Medicare—we cannot only provide a tax in- can find work and be rewarded for it. And, crease for families that’s worth hundreds of therefore, it is important for us to try to keep dollars a year—to save for retirement, for this economy going and to spread its benefits. child care, for long-term care—we can actu- And I would just mention two things in ally make America debt-free in 15 years for that regard that I think are profoundly im- the first time since 1835. portant. First of all, this new markets tour Now, you ask yourself, why would the pro- I took last week—I went to Appalachia; I gressive party of America care about that? went to the Mississippi Delta; I went to the Because in the world in which we live—as Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, to East St. opposed to the world we lived in 60 years Louis, south Phoenix, and to East L.A. I saw ago, when Franklin Roosevelt had to help the urban and rural face of continuing need spend us out of the Depression—in the in America. Secretary Slater was there with world in which we live the interest rates are me, many others went. I saw all these people set globally and money can cross the globe who are dying to work, saw a lot of people in the flash of an eye. Just think about it. who are working who are poor. I saw people If we keep paying this debt down until we’re living in conditions that you would think are out of debt, what does that mean? That unconscionable at a time when homeowner- means lower interest rates; that means more Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 19 1423 investment, more jobs, more money for up and walking but there around people wages at low inflation. It means working peo- stacking sandbags, actually working. ple have lower interest rates for house pay- And she had had, I think, 12 or 15 oper- ments, car payments, credit card payments, ations already, and was—never had been able college loan payments. It means that when to grow—and the knots where her elbows there’s a global financial crisis, as there was were and in all of her joints because her in Asia 2 years ago, we will be less affected bones had been broken so many times. The by it. And it means the people we sell things child’s name was Brianne Schwantes, I’ll to around the world will be able to borrow never forget her. And I said, ‘‘What are you the money they need at a lower cost, too, doing here?’’ I said, ‘‘Do you live here?’’ She because we won’t be in there taking it away said, ‘‘No, sir, I live in Wisconsin.’’ But she to fund our bad habits. I’m telling you, it said, ‘‘You know, I saw this on television and is a gift we could give our children. It would I told my parents we ought to go down there save the lives—the lives of working people and help those people.’’ And I said, ‘‘Aren’t by keeping interest rates low for a very long you afraid of getting hurt?’’ She said, ‘‘Yes, period of time. but you know, I could get another break at Now, I think we have to say, yes, America home. I want to be part of what my country should get a tax cut, but we should save So- is doing.’’ She said, ‘‘These people need all cial Security and Medicare first, and we the help they can get.’’ ought to do it in a way that allows us to pay Last year I went to American University off the debt and continue to invest in edu- to give a speech. There was Brianne cation, in defense, in the environment, in the Schwantes, 18 years old, a freshman at Amer- things that we have to have to keep this coun- ican University, with all of her friends. I try going. And it will keep us coming to- brought them to a radio address, let them gether. come see me. But what I want you to know Now, I believe that is the right thing to is, every year from that year, the time I first do. But like I said, it’s not just an argument met her till then, she kept coming to NIH anymore. Look at the evidence. Look at the getting help. NIH—paid for by taxpayers. evidence. When you think about all these Well, my daughter—thank God—didn’t have people that are out there that are still looking brittle bone disease, but I think I’m better for a chance, if we give them a chance, the off that I live in a country that gives a child rest of us will do better. That’s what I believe. like that a chance to grow up and go to col- Let me just close with this story. I went lege. to Iowa a couple of days ago, had a great I was giving a speech in Iowa, and I looked time. They had this big crowd of folks. I said, out, and there was this beautiful African- ‘‘You all ought to be glad to see me, I’m the American girl smiling. The first time I saw only person that’s been here in months not her she was a baby, in 1992, in Cedar Rapids, running for anything.’’ [Laughter] But I was Iowa. I spoke at this rally in front of the in Iowa, and I was reminded of two things— Quaker Oats plant. I was working my way in 1993 I went to Iowa when they had that through the crowd and there’s this real tall flood—you remember the flood we had white lady holding this African-American along the Mississippi—500-year flood. And baby. And I said, ‘‘Where did you get that there I was in Des Moines, all this flood and baby?’’ She smiled and she said, ‘‘That’s my the water everywhere. And I went over and baby.’’ I said, ‘‘Well, where did you get the I was stacking those sandbags and visiting baby?’’ She said, ‘‘This baby was born in with the people that were doing it. And I Miami with AIDS and abandoned, and no looked down and there was this tiny child one would take her. So I thought I should.’’ who was 13 years old, but was the size of So I got so interested in this woman and about a 6- or 7-year-old. And I noticed that I figured, well, gosh, it’s nice that a nice mid- her bones were bulging everywhere. It dle class lady in a place like Iowa would do turned out she has that brittle bone disease this. Guess what—this woman had been that some children are born with—some chil- abandoned by her husband, was raising two dren never get out of bed with it—she was children on her own, living in an apartment 1424 July 19 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 where she could barely pay the rent. But she girls. And you will know, you will know, that cared enough about a baby she never knew it’s worth fighting for that kind of America to take this child with AIDS, not knowing for all the children of this country in the 21st whether she would live. century. I have seen that child about once a year Thank you, and God bless you. since 1992. That child was permitted to come to the NIH to get good treatment. And when NOTE: The President spoke at 9:03 p.m. in the I was giving that speech in Iowa and I looked State Room at the Mayflower Hotel. In his re- out—she is tall now, probably above average marks, he referred to John J. Sweeney, president, height for her age, a perfectly beautiful child, AFL–CIO; former Gov. Roy Romer of Colorado, smiling, lighting up the room. She jumped general chair, Democratic National Committee; in my arms, and I said, ‘‘Jimiya, you’re about former Deputy Chief of Staff Harold Ickes; former White House assistant Janice Enright; to get so big I can’t hold you anymore.’’ Gerald W. McEntee, president, American Fed- What I want to tell you—what’s all that eration of State, County and Municipal Employ- got to do with this? I’m glad I live in a coun- ees; Laura Poisel and her adoptive daughter, try which gave that child a chance to have Jimiya, who was born with AIDS; and Alfonso a life. I’m glad I live in a country where peo- Fanjul, who hosted a Democratic National Com- ple like her mother, who had no rational way mittee dinner in Coral Gables, FL, on July 13. in the world she should have given that child a home, but she did. And what I want to say to you is, I’m not running for anything, Remarks on the Comprehensive Test but, darn it, we were right. We have evi- Ban Treaty and an Exchange With dence. We were right about Social Security Reporters and Medicare. And we’re right about keeping July 20, 1999 our commitments to education. And we’re right about trying to reach out and give peo- The President. Good morning. I have just ple who haven’t been part of this economic had the privilege of meeting with the three recovery a chance to be part of it. And we’re Apollo 11 astronauts who, 30 years ago, car- right about trying to secure our economic ried out the first landing on the Moon: Neil health for the long term. And we’re right Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael about not cutting anybody out, but cutting Collins. They and everyone at NASA over everybody in. the years have made an extraordinary con- And so you gave those ideas the chance tribution to our Nation and to humanity. I to be proved right. I am profoundly grateful am very grateful to them. that I had the opportunity to be President. President Kennedy, who set a goal of put- I am very grateful I am still President be- ting a man on the Moon by the late 1960’s, cause I think we can do some of the most was committed to using technology to unlock important things that this administration has the mysteries of the heavens. But President done in the next year and a half. But what Kennedy was also concerned that technology, I want you to do when you go home tonight if misused, literally could destroy life on is to know in the marrow of your bones that Earth. So another goal he vigorously pursued what you always believed was right is right, was one first proposed by President and that you have had a chance to dem- Eisenhower, a treaty to ban for all time the onstrate that you don’t have to debate any- testing of the most destructive weapons ever more, you don’t have to worry, you don’t have devised, nuclear weapons. to argue. As a first step, President Kennedy nego- And tomorrow and every tomorrow from tiated a limited test ban treaty to ban nuclear now on, you will be able to stand up with tests except those conducted underground. greater confidence in what you believe be- But for far too long nations failed to heed cause it works. And when you get discour- the call to ban all nuclear tests. More coun- aged and when you worry whether if they tries sought to acquire nuclear weapons and outspend us by $3 million or $4 million, we to develop ever more destructive weapons. can prevail, just think about those two little This threatened America’s security and that Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 20 1425 of our friends and allies. It made the world fails to act, this treaty and all the protections a more dangerous place. and increased safety it offers the American Since I have been President, I have made people cannot enter into force for any coun- ending nuclear tests one of my top goals. And try. That would make it harder to prevent in 1996 we concluded a Comprehensive Test further nuclear arms competition, and as we Ban Treaty; 152 countries have now signed have seen, for example, in the nuclear tests it, and 41, including many of our allies, have in India and Pakistan. now ratified it. Today, on Capitol Hill, a bi- Do we want these countries and other re- partisan group of Senators is speaking out gional rivals to join a test ban treaty, or do on the importance of the treaty. They include we want them to stop nuclear testing? Do Senators Jeffords, Specter, Daschle, Biden, we want to scrap a treaty that could constrain Bingaman, Dorgan, Bob Kerrey, Levin, and them? The major nuclear powers, Britain and Murray. I am grateful for their leadership France, Russia and China, have signed the and their support of this critical agreement. treaty. Do we want to walk away from a treaty And today I want to express, again, my under which those countries and scores of strong determination to obtain ratification of others have agreed not to conduct nuclear the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. Amer- tests? I believe it is strongly in our interest ica already has stopped nuclear testing. We to ratify the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. have, today, a robust nuclear force and nu- The American people consistently have clear experts affirm that we can maintain a supported it for more than 40 years now. At safe and reliable deterrent without nuclear a minimum, the Senate Foreign Relations tests. Committee should hold hearings this fall. The question now is whether we will adopt Hearings would allow each side to make its or whether we will lose a verifiable treaty case for and against the treaty, and allow the that will bar other nations from testing nu- Senate to decide this matter on the merits. clear weapons. The Comprehensive Test Ban We have a chance right now to end nuclear Treaty will strengthen our national security testing forever. It would be a tragedy for our by constraining the development of more ad- security and for our children’s future to let vanced and more destructive nuclear weap- this opportunity slip away. ons and by limiting the possibilities for more I thank those Senators in both parties who countries to acquire nuclear weapons. It will today are announcing their clear intention also enhance our ability to detect suspicious not to do that. activities by other nations. I thank you. With or without a test ban treaty, we must monitor such activities. The treaty gives us China and Taiwan new means to pursue this important mission, Q. Mr. President, did Jiang Zemin tell you a global network of sensors and the right to that he would use force to counter Taiwan’s request short notice, onsight inspections in independence? And would you use force in other countries. Four former Chairmen of Taiwan’s defense? the Joint Chiefs of Staff—David Jones, The President. First let me tell you I’m William Crowe, Colin Powell, and John going to have a press conference tomorrow, Shalikashvili—plus the current Chairman, and I will answer a lot of questions. The an- Hugh Shelton, all agree the treaty is in our swer to that question is, we had a conversa- national interests. Other national leaders, tion in which I restated our strong support such as former Senators John Glenn and of the ‘‘one China’’ policy and our strong sup- Nancy Kassebaum Baker, agree. port for the cross-strait dialog, and I made Unfortunately, the Test Ban Treaty is now it clear, our policy had not changed, includ- imperiled by the refusal of some Senators ing our view under the Taiwan Relations Act even to consider it. If our Senate fails to act, that it would be—we would take very seri- the treaty cannot enter into force for any ously any abridgement of the peaceful dialog. country. Think of that. We’re not testing China knows very well what our policy is, now. A hundred and fifty-two countries have and we know quite well what their policy is. signed, 41 have ratified, but if our Senate I believe that the action of the United States 1426 July 20 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 in affirming our support of the ‘‘one China’’ Remarks to Representatives of the policy and encouraging Taiwan to support Legal Community that and the framework within which dialog has occurred will be helpful in easing some July 20, 1999 of the tensions. And that was the context in Thank you. Let me say to all of you, I can’t which our conversation occurred. do any better than that. [Laughter] It was So I thought it was a very positive con- terrific. I wish every newspaper in American versation, far more positive than negative. would reprint those remarks. Thank you, sir. And that is the light in which I meant it to Thank you very much. unfold, and I think that is the shape it is tak- I want to thank you all for coming. What ing. So—— a wonderful group we have here. First, I Q. The Chinese seemed to make it clear thank Attorney General Reno and Deputy that he would use force—— Attorney General Holder for the wonderful job they do in so many ways. Associate Attor- Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and Kyoto ney General Fisher is here with them and Treaty Bill Lann Lee of the Civil Rights Division. Q. On the treaty, Senator Helms says that One big civil rights issue is getting him con- he would be happy to hold hearings if you firmed, I might add. [Applause] Thank you. would send up the ABM Treaty and the I thank Secretary Slater and Secretary Kyoto treaty. Will you? Daley for joining us, and Ben Johnson, who The President. Look, the ABM Treaty— runs our one America Initiative; and Chris Edley, who used to be part of our administra- we have to conclude START II first; that’s tion—still is—I just don’t have to pay him in our national interest. The Kyoto treaty— anymore. [Laughter] all the people who say they’re not for the Kyoto treaty insist that we involve the devel- Thank you, Senator Leahy and Congress- man Becerra, for coming. I think there are oping nations in it; I agree with them. Even at least two people in this room, Jerry the people who are against the Kyoto treaty Shestack and Bill Taylor, who were here in under any circumstances say, well, if you’re 1963 with President Kennedy. I thank them going to have it you’ve got to have the devel- for coming. Thank you, Mayor Archer, for oping nations in there. So it’s inconsistent for coming—former Secretary of State Warren me to send it up when we’re out there work- Christopher, former Attorney General ing ourselves to death to try to get the devel- Benjamin Civiletti. oping nations to participate. There are so many people here—I just Now, this is a relatively new issue, the have to mention one person because it’s my Kyoto treaty. And the other issue is not ripe most intimate, personal acquaintance with af- yet, clearly, not ripe yet. So to take a matter firmative action, the president of the Amer- that has been a matter of national debate for ican Bar Association, Phil Anderson, gave me 40 years now, and it is finally a reality—a a job in 1981, when I was the youngest treaty that has been ratified by 40 other former Governor in American history— countries, the prospect of dramatically in- [laughter]—with dim future prospects. So I creasing the safety of the American people thank him for being here, as well. [Applause] in the future—and hold it hostage to two Thank you. matters that are literally not ripe for presen- And I’d like to say a special word of appre- tation to the Senate yet would be a grave ciation to the man who directs our national error, I think. And I hope that we can find service program, Senator Harris Wofford, a way around that. who was very intimately involved with Presi- Thank you. dent Kennedy’s civil rights initiatives. Thank you for being here, sir, today. NOTE: The President spoke at 11:43 a.m. in the As has been pointed out, President Ken- Rose Garden at the White House. In his remarks, nedy called more than 200 of America’s lead- he referred to President Jiang Zemin of China. ing lawyers to this room 36 years ago, the Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 20 1427 summer of 1963—when America was awak- ment, education, housing, voting, and citi- ening to the fact that in our laws and in our zenship for all Americans. Their success, as hearts, we were still far short of our ideals. you just heard from Bill—every time a lawyer It is difficult today to imagine an America does that, it inspires a whole new generation without civil rights. But when I came here of people to seek the law as a career. I sus- 36 years ago in the summer of 1963, as a pect many of us were inspired to go to law delegate to American Legion Boys Nation, school because we thought lawyers were there were only four African-American boys standing up for what was right, not simply there, and the hottest issue was what we were because they were making a good living. going to do about civil rights. Thirty-six years ago, in that 200, there It didn’t seem so inevitable back then. were 50 African-American lawyers. They Across my native South, there were sheriffs, came to the White House, but they couldn’t mayors, Governors defying the courts; police have found the same welcome in the hotels, dogs attacking peaceful demonstrators; restaurants, and lunch counters of America— firehoses toppling children; protesters led a cruel irony. away in handcuffs; and too little refuge in Today, thanks in large measure to the ef- the hallowed sanctuary of the law. forts of our lawyers, Americans of all back- It was in this atmosphere that the grounds and colors and religions are working, President turned to America’s lawyers and living, and learning side by side. The doors enlisted them in the fight for equal justice. of opportunity are open wider than ever. We With Vice President Johnson and Attorney are living in a time of unprecedented pros- General Robert Kennedy at his side, the perity, with the longest peacetime expansion President asked the lawyers there to remem- in our history and the lowest African-Amer- ber their duty to uphold justice, especially ican and Hispanic unemployments ever re- in places where the principles of justice had been defied. corded since we began to keep separate data The lawyers answered that call, creating in the early 1970’s. Our social fabric is mend- a new Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights ing, with declining rates of welfare, crime, Under Law and a new tradition of pro bono teen pregnancy, and drug abuse. service in the legal profession. I asked you But the challenge to build one America here today because we need your help as continues. It is different, but it is just as real much as ever in our most enduring challenge as it was when Vernon Jordan started with as a nation, the challenge of creating one the Urban League as a young man, or before America. We have worked hard on that here. he was working in the South on registering In the audience today I see Dr. John Hope voters. I saw firsthand in the new markets Franklin, Governor William Winter, Judy tour I took a couple of weeks ago, we will Winston. I think Angela Oh and Dr. Suzan never be one America when our central cit- Johnson are here, but I haven’t seen them ies, our Indian reservations, our small towns yet—people who worked on this for me to and rural areas here in the most prosperous shine a special spotlight on the issues. And time in history are still living in the shadows we have now institutionalized that effort in- of need and want. They’re struggling with sofar as we can in the White House. But unemployment and poverty rates more than there is a limit to what we can do without twice the national average—over 70 percent you. on some of our reservations. Your fellow Just as your predecessors, with the Con- Americans, many of them, are living in stitution as their shield, stared down the houses that it would sicken you to walk sheriffs of segregation, you must step forward through—at the time of our greatest prosper- to dismantle our time’s most stubborn obsta- ity. cles to equal justice—poverty, unemploy- Everything President Johnson worked for ment and, yes, continuing discrimination. Be- and dreamed of that he thought could hap- hind every watershed event of the civil rights pen after all these years has still not reached struggle, lawyers, many pro bono, remain quite a large number of your fellow Ameri- vigilant, securing equal rights for employ- cans. So, what are we going to do about it? 1428 July 20 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

We know that two out of five African- reading scores, our children moving up about American and Latino children under the age half a grade level. But there is a long way of 6 are still in poverty, in spite of all of our to go. prosperity, in spite of the fact that a million Last year, just before the election, the children were lifted out of poverty just in the Congress came together across party lines, last couple of years. We also know that we and I shouted, ‘‘hallelujah,’’ because they can’t be one America when a lot of minorities voted to create and fund—to create 100,000 still distrust law enforcement and our legal school teachers to lower class size in the early system generally and shy away from entering grades, something we know that is particu- the legal profession. larly important to poor children and people We can’t be one America when, here we who don’t come from strong educational are, on the eve of the new millennium, when backgrounds. And we now have the research we act as if everything good will happen and that shows it has continuing benefits. I just all the rationality will fade away, but we still released the funds to hire the first 30,000 have to read about brutal killings like those of those teachers. in Indiana and Illinois, allegedly conducted But now, unbelievably, in this non-election on the basis of religious conviction; or what year—although you wouldn’t know it from happened in Jasper, Texas; or to Matthew reading the press—[laughter]—there are Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming. some who propose to kill the class size initia- The struggle for one America today is tive and replace it with a program that more complex than it was 36 years ago, more doesn’t guarantee that one red cent will go subtle than it seemed to us that it would be to hiring a single teacher or reducing the size back then. For then, there was the clear of a single class. Now, this is very important enemy of legal segregation and overt hatred. because we now, finally, for the last 2 years, Today, the progress we make in building one have a student population that is bigger than America depends more on whether we can the baby boom generation. So it is not only expand opportunity and deal with a whole the most diverse in history, it is the largest range of social challenges. In 1963 the chal- in history; and about 2 million teachers are lenge was to open our schools to all our chil- scheduled to retire in the next few years. dren. In 1999 the challenge is to make sure I’m happy to report, I hope in part because all those children get a world-class education. of the importance of education rising in the And of course, if I could just expound on national consciousness, as the Secretary of that for a moment, we’ve worked hard on Education told me 2 days ago, that we now that. And one of the things we have to do have 10 percent of our college students say- is to bring teachers to the communities ing they’re considering being teachers. That’s where they’re needed most. I offered an ini- twice the percentage of 5 years ago, and tiative to give scholarships to young people that’s encouraging. But we have to get them who would go and teach in inner-city or rural in the classroom. schools that were underserved. And I call for So if the research says it’s a good idea, these scholarships as part of our race initia- if we voted to do it, if we’ve already funded tive. I believe they will make a real dif- 30,000 of the teachers, why in the world ference. would we turn around and reverse field? The The efforts we have made to make the people who want to kill the 100,000 teacher class sizes smaller and to bring the Internet initiative say they want to do it because they to all of our kids, even in the poorest class- want to improve the quality of the existing rooms, these things are beginning to make teacher core. Well, I’m for that, and we’ve a difference. The hundreds of thousands of set aside sums to do it. But that shouldn’t people who have gone into the elementary be a cover for the fact that we’ve got to do schools to teach people to read are making more to lower class size in the early grades, a difference. I can tell you that in the last especially for our poorest children, especially 3 years we have seen, for the first time in for our minority children, especially for all a very long time, at the 4th, 8th, and 12th these children whose first language is not grade level substantial improvements in even English. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 20 1429

Across the river here in Alexandria we store that was the first new store to open have kids who literally speak 100 different in the inner city in 40 years. Mayor Archer languages as their native tongue, from 180 here is exhibit A. The unemployment rate different racial and ethnic groups. We cannot in Detroit is less than half what it was in afford to back up on this. I also believe very 1993 when I took office, because he con- strongly that it would be wrong to pass a risky vinced people that there were people in his tax scheme before we first fund education community that could work and that were and make sure we can save Social Security already working and that had money to spend and Medicare, something that also has a big and that they ought to be part of the future. impact on minority communities in our coun- And we need to do that everywhere, and that try and will have a huge impact on the ability work cannot be done without legal assistance. of the baby boom generation to retire in dig- And it is a civil rights issue. It is a civil nity without imposing new burdens on their rights issue for people to have jobs and dig- children and their grandchildren, just as nity and a chance to start businesses and the many of them are moving into the middle chance to be able to shop in their own neigh- class for the first time in their family’s history. borhoods and walk to the grocery store, in- So I hope that—this is a nonlegal issue, stead of having to ride a bus and wait on but since all of us, as our detractors never the schedule and stand in the rain and do tire of saying, are overeducated—those of all the things people have to do. It is a huge you who believe in education will stand with issue. And if we can’t do it now, we’ll never us as we try to preserve this important re- get around to doing it. So I ask you to help form. Well, strengthening our schools is im- us with that. portant, and bringing economic opportunity I hope you will help me to pass my new to those places that I visited and all those markets initiative, because what it says is, places like them in America, it is absolutely we’re going to give people the same incen- essential. But what I asked you here today tives to invest in inner cities and rural areas for was to simply say we still need lawyers. and Indian reservations, the same incentives We need the work lawyers do. We need the to invest there we give them to invest in the ideas lawyers get. We need the dreams law- Caribbean, in Africa, in Latin America and yers dream. We still need people to fight for Asia. I don’t want to repeal those incentives; equal justice. I want Americans to help poor people all over And so I ask you to do two things today. the world rise up. But they ought to have First, I ask you to recommit yourselves, as the same incentives to invest in poor people Bill has asked, to fighting discrimination, to right here at home, and I hope you’ll help revitalizing our poorest communities, and to me do that. giving people an opportunity to serve in law The second thing I want you to do is to firms who would not otherwise have it. You set the best possible example. Mr. McBride can help inner-city entrepreneurs negotiate has spoken better than I can. We may have loans to start new businesses. You can help torn down the walls of segregation, but there neighborhood health clinics navigate the reg- are still a lot of walls in our hearts and in ulatory mazes they have to do to stay open. our habits. And sometimes, we can—we are You can help nonprofits secure new super- not aware of those walls in our hearts, but markets and merchants in underserved com- we have to test them against our habits. So munities. Just for example, those of you who invite more lawyers of all backgrounds to join come from urban areas, today in the highest your firms. How are we going to build one unemployment urban areas in America, there America if the legal profession which is fight- is still at least a 25 percent gap between the ing for it doesn’t reflect it? We can’t do it. money that the people who live there earn I am so pleased that the organizations here and have to spend to support themselves and have made the commitments they’ve made the opportunities they have to spend it in to diversity and to pro bono work. I thank their own communities. the American Bar Association, the Corporate In East St. Louis, where I visited, there Counsel Association, for pledging to launch is a 40 percent gap. We went to a Walgreens new initiatives to promote greater diversity 1430 July 20 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 in the profession. The ABA will bring to- A 1993 ABA study found that half of all gether lawyers and academics, law firms and low income households had at least one seri- bar associations, to provide financial aid to ous legal problem each year, but three-quar- minority law students and to mentor them ters had no access to a lawyer. Now we can as they embark on their legal careers. We’ve fill that gap. Now America’s lawyers can af- got to do more work to mentor them before, ford to fill that gap. And I would argue, if in the places that have tried to do away with we really believe in equal justice we cannot affirmative action—I believe wrongly— afford not to fill that gap. sometimes under court decisions with which I want to thank the Association of Amer- I respectfully disagree. But if you don’t get ican Law Schools for pledging to help more there in the first place, it won’t matter if schools incorporate community service in there’s someone helping you once you do get their curriculum—something I strongly be- there. lieve in—so that more law graduates will The Counsel Association has promised to come out of law school predisposed to do encourage its 11,000 members to hire more volunteer work and pro bono work. All these minority-owned law firms and to dedicate are wonderful pledges. I thank the presidents more of their resources to pro bono legal of the ABA, the Minority Bar Associations work in communities. I thank the hundreds here, the American Corporate Counsel Asso- of law firms who have agreed to dedicate at ciation, the representatives of the San Fran- least 3 percent of billable hours—about 50 cisco and New York City bars, the cochairs hours a year per lawyer—to pro bono work, to the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights which is the ABA standard. As Bill pointed for agreeing to meet every month. out, this booming economy has been pretty You heard what Eric Holder said—for our part the Justice Department, working with good to America’s lawyers and law firms. Last Ben Johnson and the White House Office year, top firms increased their revenues by on One America, will do whatever we can 15 percent. There will never be a better op- to support these efforts. And a year from portunity to help those who need it most. now, we’ll gather again and see where we’ve If Mr. McBride’s firm thought it was a good succeeded and where we need to do more. idea, it’s probably a pretty good idea for other I don’t want to wait another 36 years. I ask firms, as well. you to work on this. I want it to be steady And there’s one other point I would make, work for America’s lawyers. following on what he said. I think it’s good I ask Eric Holder and Neal Katyal of the business strategy over the long run, not only Justice Department to report to me on the for all the reasons you said, but because the progress. We will know we have succeeded recovery of the last 6 years has proved a fun- if more lawyers begin to make community damental thing about a community: that is, service a vital part of their practice. We will when other people, particularly people who know we will have succeeded when we have haven’t had a chance, do well, those of us more businesses, more health clinics, more that are in a position to take it, that are going affordable housing in places once bypassed to do all right, regardless, do better. When by hope and opportunity. We’ll know we’ll the least of us do well, the rest of us do bet- have succeeded when our law schools, our ter. We are all stronger. And we should never bar associations, and our law firms not only forget that. represent all Americans, but look like all So I hope every American firm will meet America. the ABA standard. Just imagine this: if every One of the best things Dr. King ever said lawyer in America—about 800,000—dedi- was that ‘‘the arc of the moral universe is cated just 50 hours a year to pro bono work, long, but it bends toward justice.’’ Our Na- that would be 40 million hours of legal help. tion’s lawyers have bent that arc toward jus- That’s a lot of personal problems solved, a tice. Our Nation has been transformed for lot of headaches gone away, a lot of hurdles the better. So I ask you again to lead us along overcome, a lot of business started. Think of that arc—from the America we know to the what we could do. one America we all long to live in. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 20 1431

Thank you very much. be distracted by the defense of unwarranted lawsuits. My Administration sought changes to NOTE: The President spoke at 3 p.m. in the East Room at the White House. In his remarks, he make the Y2K Act balanced and fair, protect- referred to Robert B. (Ben) Johnson, Assistant to ing litigants who are injured and deserve the President and Director of the President’s Ini- compensation. We achieved some additional tiative for One America; Judith A. Winston, Exec- protections. For example, the Y2K Act was utive Director, One America in the 21st Century: modified to ensure that the Federal law The President’s Initiative on Race; John Hope leaves intact the State law doctrines of Franklin, Chairman, Christopher Edley, consult- unconscionability that protect unwary con- ant, and Angela E. Oh, Suzan D. Johnson Cook, sumers and small businesses against unfair and Mayor Dennis W. Archer of Detroit, mem- or illegal contracts and that public health, bers, President’s Advisory Board on Race; former Gov. William Winter of Mississippi; Jerome J. safety, and the environment are protected, Shestack, former president, American Bar Asso- even if some firms are temporarily unable ciation; civil rights attorney William W. Taylor III, to comply fully with all regulatory require- Zuckerman Spaeder law firm; Bill McBride, man- ments due to Y2K failures. aging partner, Holland & Knight law firm, who In addition, the Y2K Act expressly exempts introduced the President; and Neal Kumar Katyal, Y2K actions involving private securities Adviser for National Security to the Deputy Attor- claims arising under the Securities Act of ney General, Department of Justice. 1933 and other Federal securities laws that do not involve actual or constructive aware- ness as an element of the claim (e.g., section Statement on Signing the Y2K Act 11 of the 1933 Act). More generally, actions July 20, 1999 by the Securities and Exchange Commission are excluded from the definition of ‘‘Y2K Ac- Today I have signed into law H.R. 775, tion.’’ the ‘‘Y2K Act.’’ This is extraordinary, time- This is narrow, time-limited legislation limited legislation designed to deal with an aimed at a unique problem. The terms of exceptional and unique circumstance of na- the statute should be construed narrowly to tional significance—the Y2K computer prob- create uniform Federal rules for Y2K actions lem. in the areas specified in the bill, and to leave In signing this legislation, I act in the belief in place State law not in direct conflict with and with the expectation that companies in the bill’s provisions. Moreover, my signature the high technology sector and throughout today in no way reflects support for the Y2K the American economy are serious in their Act’s provisions in any other context. remediation efforts and that such efforts will I hope that we find that the Y2K Act suc- continue. Many have worked hard to identify ceeds in helping to screen out frivolous the potential for Y2K failures among their claims without blocking or unduly burdening systems and products, taken reasonable legitimate suits. We will be watching to see measures to inform those who might be in- whether the bill’s provisions are misused by jured from Y2K failures of steps they could parties who did little or nothing to remediate take to avoid the harm, and fixed those sys- in order to defeat claims brought by those tems and products, where feasible. If none- harmed by irresponsible conduct. theless there are significant failures or dis- In the remaining days of 1999, I hope that ruptions as we enter the Year 2000, plaintiffs the business community redoubles its efforts will turn to the courts seeking compensation. at remediation. Preventing problems before Responsible companies fear that they will they start, and developing contingency plans spend millions or more defending Y2K suits, when necessary, are still the best solutions even if they bear little or no responsibility to the Y2K problem. for the harm alleged. Frivolous litigation William J. Clinton could burden our courts and delay relief for those with legitimate claims. Firms whose The White House, productivity is central to our economy could July 20, 1999. 1432 July 20 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

NOTE: H.R. 775, approved July 20, was assigned more, you ought to be for us. And if you’re Public Law No. 106–37. not, you’re not even acting in your own best interest, much less the country’s.’’ [Laughter] I want to talk to you just very briefly to- Remarks to a Democratic Business night, not so much about your own best inter- Council and Women’s Leadership ests, but about our own best interests. And Forum Dinner I want to begin by thanking all of you. Thank July 20, 1999 you for your support, many of you for your repeated support over these years; some of Thank you very much. I want to thank you you for your involvement in this administra- all for your welcome, and I want to thank tion, like Dr. Susan Blumenthal—thank you my good friend Janice for her instruction. I very much for being here. Thank you for did know, as a matter of fact, that she was being so good to me and Hillary and to Al from a place called Hope. I didn’t know that and Tipper Gore. And thank you for doing I had the endorsement of her father in quite something that has been very good for Amer- that way. [Laughter] But I appreciate it more ica. than I can say. I want to make just a few brief points, in I want to thank John Merrigan and Penny case somebody tomorrow gives you a quiz and Susie, and I want to thank Joe Andrew and asks you why you came tonight. This and Beth Dozoretz and all of you who have country was in trouble in 1991 and 1992. It worked so hard to put our party on the was in trouble because we had been in a pro- soundest financial footing. I think Mr. longed recession, but even more because we Merrigan said we were out of debt for the kept coming out of these recessions and drip- first time since ’91. I should point out that ping back in, coming out and drip back in. we were outspent by $100 million in 1998 We hadn’t had any sustained growth for some and still picked up House seats, the first time time. It was in trouble because the crime it had happened in the sixth year of an ad- rates and the welfare rolls were rising. It was ministration since 1822. in trouble because our country was becoming I say that to say that it is not necessary more divided. It was in trouble because the that we have as much money as the other political debate in Washington left most side does. You know, the economy the Americans cold, because there seemed to be Democrats have built has been an equal op- a debate between people who essentially portunity beneficiary. And so we have were against the Government doing anything showered benefits on Republicans, as well as and people who wanted to preserve the sta- Democrats. And if they choose to misspend tus quo of what the Government had been their money, there’s nothing we can do about doing. The country was in trouble. it, is there? [Laughter] It’s a free economy. I ran for President because I had some But it is necessary that we have enough. And ideas about how we could change things. I if we have a good message and we stand for believed that we could create a country again the right things and our people are excited, in which there was opportunity for every re- then that is enough, and I thank you for that. sponsible citizen, in which we had a commu- We were talking at our table—I have a nity of all Americans who were responsible friend who is a New York Democrat who for themselves and for each other, in which heads quite a large American company, and we led the world for peace and freedom and he said he’d gotten so exasperated with these prosperity. But I didn’t think we could do Republicans throwing their money around he it by having the same old fights in the same started going up to his friends in New York old way. And I knew if the people gave me saying, ‘‘You should give money to the Re- a chance to serve, some difficult decisions publicans—if your taxes went up in 1993 by would be required. more than you’ve made in the stock market, Well, it worked out. And we said, look, support them. But if the balanced budget we’re going to cut this deficit, get interest and the low interest rates and the tripling rates down, and grow the economy; but we of the stock market have benefitted you still have to invest in education, in medical Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 20 1433 research, in technology, and the environ- opened the doors of college to every Amer- ment—we have to do that. We said we want ican with the HOPE scholarship and the more money in education, but we want high- other tax credits and student loans. This is er standards and more competition, too. We a stronger country than it was in 1992. said we believe you can grow the economy And we have done it by relentlessly push- and improve the environment. We said we ing to bring people together, standing against thought that you could create a society where discrimination and against hatred and against people who had to work and had children the politics of division. When I say ‘‘we,’’ I could succeed at work and at home. And a don’t mean ‘‘me’’, ‘‘we’’—I mean, ‘‘we’’: we, lot of that just kind of sounded like political our party, our allies, the people that believed rhetoric at the time. as we did. And along the way we’ve been But what I want to say to you tonight is a force for peace in the Middle East, in when people ask you why you were here, say, Northern Ireland, in Bosnia, in Kosovo. We ‘‘Look, the country was in trouble; we elected stood up against terrorism and stood up for the Clinton-Gore administration; they had trade and human rights around the world. friends and allies in the Government and the Today I asked the United States Senate Congress and in the private sector; they im- to ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear Test plemented their ideas; most of the time— Ban Treaty, first advocated by Presidents not all of the time, but most of the time— Eisenhower and Kennedy, first signed by the they were opposed by members in the other United States. I signed it at the U.N. a couple party, and it worked out.’’ Our approach years ago. We are moving the country in the turned out to be right. That’s what Janice right direction, toward a world that works was saying. This is no longer subject to seri- better for all the people. That’s the first thing ous debate. I want to say. I was told for 2 years—I saw the Repub- licans go into the ’94 election telling every- We’re entitled to the benefit of the doubt body how we’d raise taxes on people we on the great debates going on in Washington hadn’t raised taxes on, and how terrible it today because we just had 6 years of argu- was and how it was going to bankrupt the ment and it turned out we were right. And country and run the debt up. And we went I say that in all humility. I am grateful for from the biggest deficit in history to the big- that. The point I’m trying to make is, Joe gest surplus in history, the longest peacetime Andrew always says, ‘‘Well, why is Bill expansion in history, almost 19 million new Clinton doing this? He’s not running for any- jobs, the highest homeownership in history, thing.’’ I came here to say not that I was the lowest minority unemployment ever re- right, but that our ideas were right. And I corded since we started keeping that data al- am grateful that I had the chance to be Presi- most 30 years ago. In addition to that, we dent, to be the instrument of brining the have the lowest crime rate in 26 years, the country together and moving it forward. But lowest welfare rolls in 30 years; and teen it wasn’t me; it was that the ideas we had pregnancy, teen drug abuse, teen smoking were right. And you’ve got to get out there are declining. Things are moving in the right between now and the next election cycle and direction in this country. hammer that home. So I say to you, first, thank you because Before I took office they were killing fam- we have moved this country in the right di- ily leave because it was going to bankrupt rection. We did it and proved you could have small business. I signed the family leave bill, a better environment. The air is cleaner; the first thing I did—so we’d have 15 million water is cleaner; the food is safer. Ninety per- people take advantage of it. The largest num- cent of our kids are immunized against child- ber of small businesses formed in any given hood diseases for the first time in the history year—every single year I’ve been President of America. Over 100,000 young people have has broken a new record. So the family leave served their communities in AmeriCorps in law did not wreck the small business econ- 4 years; it took the Peace Corps 20 years to omy, it made America a place where you get to 100,000 people. We have virtually could have work and family. 1434 July 20 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

And they vetoed and killed the Brady bill fense, biomedical research, and the environ- before I became President. So I signed it first ment. Number three, we believe that as the chance I got. And 400,000 people couldn’t interest on the debt comes down, because get guns because they had criminal back- our interest payments will come down as the grounds. And we have a 26-year low in the debt comes, we should put the savings into crime rate. And we’ve got 100,000 more po- Social Security so we can run the Trust Fund lice on the street, even though on the out to 2053. So when I leave office everybody otherside of the aisle they said, ‘‘This won’t will know Social Security is all right for at make a lick of difference; these police will least 50 years, and we can quit worrying never get out there.’’ Well, we funded them about it. Now, that’s what we think. ahead of time and under budget and we have And you can do what we suggest and still a 26-year low in the crime rate. have a tax cut, a substantial one. They believe So as Democrats we should be proud— that virtually all the non-Social Security sur- not proud as if we did it, proud that the ideas plus should go to a tax cut. And they think we stood for were the right ones and that it sounds really popular—‘‘my tax cut is big- it actually works when you try to create a ger than your tax cut’’—well, if that were the society where everybody has a chance, all the whole story that would sound like a pretty rest of us who are going to do fine regardless, good argument. But I say we ought to save do even better; that we all do better when Social Security and Medicare and not just we try to create opportunity for each other, pay down the debt but make this country when we try to make sure we’re responsible debt-free for the first time since 1835 and for each other in an appropriate way and we continue to invest in education. try to pull together. We’ll still have money for a tax cut to help Now, the second thing I want to say is we families save for long-term care, for child have to take that fast-forward to today. care, for investments in our country. But we What’s the great debate in Washington will continue—we will not risk running a def- today? What are we going to do with the sur- icit, destroying the education budget, not plus? Now, if I had been running in ’92 and meeting our defense responsibilities, or not I had come to you and you had never seen doing one single thing to add a day to the me before, and I said, I want you to vote solvency of Medicare, and not providing the for me so that 6 years from now we’ll be prescription drug benefit. That’s the dif- having a debate about what to do with the ference. That’s the choice. surplus, you would have sent me home to So it’s just all back to 1993 again, or even Arkansas. [Laughter] You would have said, back earlier than that. Most of you in this ‘‘This guy has lost it; he doesn’t understand. room, what are you doing here? You’re all We’ve got a $290 billion deficit; we will al- in upper income groups; you ought to be at ways have deficits.’’ their deal, not ours. Why are you here? You So what are we going to do with it? First, get more money out of their tax cut. This the good news. There’s a bipartisan agree- is very important, why you’re Democrats, ment that we shouldn’t spend the Social Se- why I am. But 5 years from now you’re going curity surplus. That means until we need it to be a lot better off, and so is America, if to pay for Social Security, we can use it to we pay down the debt, save Social Security pay down the debt, and that’s good. I think and Medicare, continue to invest in edu- we have that agreement. I want to see the cation, and have a modest tax cut we can details, but I think we do. That’s good. Now afford. the question is what to do with the rest of You know, if you just think about just three the surplus. great challenges this country faces, we’re Here’s what we feel. We feel what we going to double the number of people over should do is to do the following things. Num- 65 in 30 years. We hadn’t been in this kind ber one, we should fix Medicare and provide of financial shape in forever and a day. What a prescription drug benefit. Number two, we in the world are we going to say to our chil- should have appropriate money set aside to dren if we walk away from this opportunity continue to invest in education, national de- to run the Social Security Trust Fund out Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 20 1435 at least 50-plus years? What are we going omy, in other words, that they could be a to say if we walk away from our obligation part of; to support the Vice President’s em- to run the Medicare Trust Fund out until powerment initiative and the community de- 2025 or beyond, and to provide all these el- velopment banks and all the things we’ve derly people—not all of them poor, a lot of done to try to bring jobs. them middle class—a little help in dealing Now, if we get out of debt and if everybody with the prescription drug program? knows we’re on the target, we’re going to What are we going to say if we adopt a be out of debt in 15 years, what happens? tax cut which causes us to cut education Interest rates stay down, investments stay when we ought to be investing more in it? high, more jobs are created with inflation What are we going to say when 5, 10 years low, more money for wage increases. Average from now some Kosovo comes along and people pay lower interest costs for home America is asked to stand up for human mortgages, car payments, credit card pay- rights around the world? We’d say, ‘‘Well, ments, and college loan payments. And the we’d like to do it, but we had that tax cut’’— next time a global financial crisis comes [laughter]—‘‘and I needed that tax cut.’’ along, like the one in Asia, nobody has to Closer to home, what are we going to worry about America gobbling up scarce dol- say—I’ve been waiting for this, and I never lars and driving the price of money up. So wanted to be the first to raise it because I when our trading partners, who are poorer wouldn’t have had credibility on it, but now than we are, need to get money because it’s in the press—what are we going to say times are tough, they can get it and get it if they cut taxes and the markets say, ‘‘Well, at a lower cost, which means they will recover we don’t need a tax cut in the economy like more quickly and we’ll start doing business this; we better raise interest rates?’’ So you more quickly. get it with one hand and get it taken away And if you don’t think that’s a big issue, with the other and everything gets squeezed. look what is happening to America’s farmers So I say to you we ought to save Social because of the collapse of the markets in Security and Medicare; we ought to continue Asia. Here we are at the most prosperous to move forward in education. And I want time perhaps in this country’s history with to talk just a minute about this paying the an absolute disaster in the family farms of debt down. A lot of people—it just seems America. so alien; it’s like an alien subject—we haven’t So that’s why it makes sense in a global been out of debt since 1835. And for most economy for the world’s richest country to of this century we shouldn’t have been out be debt-free, and why it is a progressive thing of debt. We needed to have a little debt to to do—and why, by the way, when you do invest in infrastructure or to expand the it, we won’t be paying interest on the debt economy in times of recession or outright de- anymore. If you were a Member of Congress, pression. But it’s different now. Why is it dif- you would find that before you did anything ferent now? else you’d have to take about—it used to be I want you all to think about this. You may 15 and now 14 cents on every tax dollar to not agree with me on this. I’ve really thought pay interest on the debt we have accumu- about this a lot. Why should the Nation’s pro- lated, largely in the 12 years before I took gressive party be for taking the country out office. So don’t forget, you get out of debt, of debt in 1999 when we have still an uncon- you’ve also got 14 cents you used to not have. scionably large number of poor children and And 14 cents of every dollar, all of you pay any number of things that we ought to be in taxes, is a pretty tidy sum of money. So spending this money on? Here’s why. We’re that’s why this is a good thing. living in a global economy. Interest rates are So I say to you we need to go to the coun- set globally; money moves globally. The best try and say, tax cut, sure, but first things first: thing we’ve done for poor people in America Save Social Security and Medicare and deal is create 19 million new jobs and give tax with the challenge of America’s aging; con- relief to lower income working people and tinue to invest in our children’s future and raise the minimum wage—to create an econ- in the other basic things we have to have; 1436 July 20 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 pay that debt off for the first time since 1835 Americans like you the same tax incentives and guarantee America a generation of pros- to invest in poor areas in America we give perity. Then have a tax cut that we need and you to invest today in the Caribbean, in Afri- can afford. That is the debate we ought to ca, in Asia, and Latin America. I want you have. to have those incentives. I just want poor And I can tell you there are lots of other areas in America to be as attractive. Our best examples. I think we were right on closing new markets for America are here in Amer- the gun show loophole, and I think they were ica. wrong. I think we were right on the Patients’ But what it reminded me of is all these Bill of Rights, and I don’t think they were. people, they’re just like us. Just because they I say that not because I take any joy in that. don’t have a nice necktie and a nice suit to I liked it when we got together. I liked it wear, life dealt them a little bit different when we had big majorities of both parties hand. You know, Janice and I, we’d like to in both Houses voting for welfare reform. I have you believe we were born in log cabins liked it when we had big majorities of both we built ourselves. [Laughter] But the truth parties in both Houses voting for the Bal- is, you take one or two different turns in life anced Budget Act of 1997. I wish it can be and she and I both are back in Hope, Arkan- that way again. sas, doing business with each other in our But I am telling you, we’ve got to stand little hometown. Some days I think it up for what’s right for all the people. What wouldn’t be too bad. [Laughter] brings us together as a community? What But I’m just telling you, you think about gives other people opportunity they wouldn’t it, every one of you—you think about this otherwise have? What purges our spirit from when you go home tonight. Why did you the kind of awful, arrogant hatred that led come here? Why did you come here? If they that terribly disturbed young man to kill ask you why you came, tell them because you those people because they were of different believe we’re better off when we all go for- races in Illinois and Indiana and claim it was ward together. Tell them because you believe a religious imperative? this ought to be one community. Tell them, I had today a bunch of civil rights lawyers guess what, we tried our ideas in the crucible in my office and a bunch of high-toned busi- of excruciating combat for 61⁄2 years and the ness lawyers who don’t practice civil rights country is better off. law, to commemorate the 36th anniversary So it’s not like there’s no evidence. And of John Kennedy bringing 200 lawyers to before we squander this surplus, let’s take Washington to ask them to lead America’s care of the aging of America; let’s take care charge in civil rights. And I asked them to of the children of America; and let’s get this lead America’s charge in trying to integrate country out of debt so we can go forward our law firms, integrate our corporations, and together. use pro bono legal work to help solve the Thank you, and God bless you. economic and social problems of low income people around the country. I’ll just close with this. One of the greatest NOTE: The President spoke at 8:22 p.m. in the weeks of my Presidency was a couple of Main Ballroom at the St. Regis Hotel. In his re- weeks ago when I had the privilege of going marks, he referred to Janice Griffin, chair, and to Appalachia, to the Mississippi Delta, to Susan Turnbull, vice chair, Women’s Leadership East St. Louis, to the Pine Ridge reservation Forum; John Merrigan, chair, and Penny Lee, vice chair, Democratic Business Council; Joseph J. in South Dakota, to south Phoenix, and East Andrew, national chair, and Beth Dozoretz, na- L.A., because I believe that we can keep this tional finance chair, Democratic National Com- economy going better if we get people to in- mittee; Susan Blumenthal, former senior adviser vest in the areas that have felt none of our to the President for Women’s Health; and alleged recovery. And I have a simple proposal: Give murderer Benjamin Nathanial Smith. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 21 1437

Memorandum on the Ninth should assess the effectiveness of current Quadrennial Review of Military military compensation and benefits in re- Compensation cruiting and retaining a high-quality force in light of changing demographics, a dynamic July 20, 1999 economy, and the new military strategy. As Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense Executive Agent, you shall ensure that representatives of other executive branch agen- Subject: Ninth Quadrennial Review of cies participate in this review as appropriate. Military Compensation I look forward to reviewing your progress Under the provisions of section 1008(b) of in this important undertaking. title 37, United States Code, every 4 years the President must direct a complete review William J. Clinton of the principles and concepts of the com- NOTE: This memorandum was released by the Of- pensation system for members of the uni- fice of the Press Secretary on July 21. An original formed services. You shall be my Executive was not available for verification of the content Agent for this review, consulting with me and of this memorandum. my other senior advisors as required. The past decade has been a time of dynamic change for our military. We achieved Notice—Continuation of Iraqi dramatic victories in the Persian Gulf and Emergency Kosovo, performed peacekeeping missions July 20, 1999 around the world, and completed a significant downsizing of our military forces. As the On August 2, 1990, by Executive Order major superpower, we have maintained glob- 12722, President Bush declared a national al commitments even as our forces have been emergency to deal with the unusual and ex- reduced. Although our military compensa- traordinary threat to the national security and tion system remains competitive, enabling us foreign policy of the United States con- to recruit and retain enough dedicated men stituted by the actions and policies of the and women to achieve the highest quality Government of Iraq. By Executive Orders uniformed forces in the Nation’s history, the 12722 of August 2, 1990, and 12724 of Au- restructuring of our military forces presents gust 9, 1990, the President imposed trade certain challenges. I have asked our smaller sanctions on Iraq and blocked Iraqi govern- military to work even harder and therefore ment assets. Because the Government of want to ensure that the compensation of mili- Iraq has continued its activities hostile to tary members is fair and effective as we enter United States interests in the Middle East, the 21st century. the national emergency declared on August To that end, I have proposed significant 2, 1990, and the measures adopted on August enhancements to the compensation system 2 and August 9, 1990, to deal with that emer- in the FY 2000 budget. These changes in- gency must continue in effect beyond August clude an across-the-board pay raise for all 2, 1999. Therefore, in accordance with sec- military members; reforms to the military re- tion 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act tirement system; and a targeted pay increase (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing the na- for noncommissioned officers and mid-grade tional emergency with respect to Iraq. officers who gained the skills, education, and This notice shall be published in the Fed- experience so valued by our thriving private eral Register and transmitted to the Con- sector. gress. The Ninth Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation should encompass a strategic William J. Clinton review of the military compensation and ben- The White House, efits system, veterans benefits and services July 20, 1999. provided by the Department of Veterans Af- fairs, and other Federal entitlements directly [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, affecting military members. The review 8:45 a.m., July 22, 1999] 1438 July 21 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

NOTE: This notice was released by the Office of ble]—we can’t see you for the light. [Laugh- the Press Secretary on July 21, and it was pub- ter] lished in the Federal Register on July 23. The President. I’ve been waiting a long time for the halo to appear. [Laughter] Message to the Congress on Let me say, ladies and gentlemen, I have a brief opening statement, but before I make Continuation of the National that and take questions, I’d like to say that, Emergency With Respect to Iraq as you might imagine, I have been briefed July 20, 1999 on this morning’s developments in the search off Martha’s Vineyard. Again, let me com- To the Congress of the United States: mend the Coast Guard and all the officials Section 202(d) of the National Emer- at the local, State, and national level for the gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for fine work they have done under extremely the automatic termination of a national emer- difficult circumstances. gency unless, prior to the anniversary date Again, I think we should keep our thoughts of its declaration, the President publishes in with the families as events unfold, and my the Federal Register and transmits to the thoughts and prayers are with them. Congress a notice stating that the emergency Today I want to make a brief statement is to continue in effect beyond the anniver- about the choice we face here in Washington sary date. In accordance with this provision and in our country about how best to move I have sent the enclosed notice, stating that forward into the new century and what to the Iraqi emergency is to continue in effect do with the surplus. beyond August 2, 1999, to the Federal Reg- When we look toward the future, it is help- ister for publication. ful to remember at least the recent past. Six The crisis between the United States and and a half years ago, the budget deficit was Iraq that led to the declaration on August $290 billion and rising. Wages were stagnant; 2, 1990, of a national emergency has not been inequality was growing; social conditions resolved. The Government of Iraq continues were worsening. In the 12 years before I took to engage in activities inimical to stability in office, unemployment averaged more than 7 the Middle East and hostile to United States percent. It’s almost difficult to remember interests in the region. Such Iraqi actions what it was like. No one really thought we pose a continuing unusual and extraordinary could turn it around, let alone bring unem- threat to the national security and vital for- ployment to a 29-year low, or turn decades eign policy interests of the United States. For of deficits, during which time the debt of our these reasons, I have determined that it is country was quadrupled in only 12 years, into necessary to maintain in force the broad au- a surplus of $99 billion. thorities necessary to apply economic pres- Our Nation has made a seismic shift in sure on the Government of Iraq. the last 6 years, from recession to recovery, William J. Clinton from a crisis of confidence to a renewal of resolve, from economic disorder to a fiscal The White House, house finally in order. Now, as we debate July 20, 1999. what to do with our prosperity, we face a critical choice, whether to move forward with NOTE: This message was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on July 21. the fiscal discipline that got us to where we are today or return to the kind of risk taking that got us into recessions and deficits before. The President’s News Conference We must decide whether to invest the sur- July 21, 1999 plus to strengthen America over the long term, or to squander it for the short term. The President. Please be seated. Good I think the right course is clear. And a bigger afternoon. surplus only means that the mistake could Q. Mr. President, you don’t know it, but be bigger and the missed opportunity greater there is such a bright light on you—[inaudi- if we take the wrong course. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 21 1439

I have proposed a balanced budget that research, the environment, and other critical puts first things first. I believe we must main- areas. tain our sound economic strategy and invest If we don’t save Social Security, it’s not the surplus in long-term goals: saving Social because we can’t. If we don’t strengthen Security; saving and strengthening Medicare, Medicare and add the prescription drug ben- modernizing it by providing a long-overdue efit, it’s not because we can’t. If we don’t drug benefit; and continuing to meet our meet these clear national needs, it’s because basic responsibilities in education, defense, we choose not to do so. It will be because, the environment, biomedical research. instead, we choose to reward ourselves today Tomorrow I will release a report that by risking our prosperity tomorrow. shows a great and growing need for prescrip- I hope Congress will make the right tion drug coverage. What the study shows choice. When Members cast their ballots on is that 75 percent of our older Americans lack the Republican tax plan, they’re really voting decent, dependable private-sector coverage also on whether to save Social Security and of prescription drugs; that’s three out of Medicare. They’re voting on whether to pay every four seniors. Clearly, America needs off the national debt for the first time in over a prescription drug plan that is simple, uni- 150 years, something that would guarantee versal, and voluntary. Anyone who says we us lower interest rates; higher investment; don’t, I believe, is out of date and out of more jobs; higher incomes; and for average touch. citizens, lower home mortgage payments, car As I’ve described, my plan meets these na- payments, credit card payments, college loan tional priorities, while paying off the debt by payments. They’re voting whether to meet 2015; while investing in America’s new mar- our most pressing national priorities in edu- kets, the places that have not yet felt our cation, defense, nearly every other domain prosperity; and while providing substantial in our people’s lives. I think the choice is tax relief, $250 billion of it targeted to help clear between the plan the Republican lead- families save for retirement, pay for child ership has outlined and the national priorities care, long-term care, for modern schools. of the American people. I hope we can still So let’s be clear about something. We’re work together across party lines to save Social not debating whether to have tax cuts or not. Security and Medicare, to safeguard our pri- We should have tax cuts, but tax cuts that orities, and have the right kind of tax cut. provide for us first to save Social Security If Congress passes the wrong kind, of and Medicare, not undermine them; tax cuts course, I will not sign it. I will not allow a we can afford, not ones that would demand risky plan to become law. And as I said, we drastic cuts in defense, education, agri- now have 61⁄2 years of evidence. This is not culture, the environment; tax cuts in the na- really a debate that’s just about ideas without tional interests, not special interests. any evidence. We clearly know what works Now, these are the risks that are posed now, and we ought to stay with it. by the Republican tax plan that the House As I said, I will work with any member is about to vote on. Let me tell you what of any party willing to put first things first. their plan would do. It would pile up $3 tril- We can have a tax cut and do the right thing lion in debt over the next two decades, right for the long term in America. That is my when the baby boomers start to retire—that’s commitment, and I hope that together we what it costs—right when Social Security and can fulfill it for our people. Medicare feel the crunch. Thank you very much. Helen [Helen Because of the cost of the tax plan over Thomas, United Press International]. the next two decades, I should say what it doesn’t do. It doesn’t do anything to extend ‘‘One China’’ Policy and Taiwan the solvency of Social Security, to extend the Q. Mr. President, in U.S. treaty relations, solvency of Medicare, to provide the pre- is it obligated to defend Taiwan militarily if scription drug benefits, and it would require it abandons the ‘‘one China’’ policy? And significant—significant—cuts from where we would the U.S. continue military aid if it con- are today in education, defense, biomedical tinues, if it pursues separatism? 1440 July 21 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

The President. Well, let me say, first of Helms means that today they’re not, in fact, all, a lot of those questions are governed by unified, then that’s true. But the Chinese the Taiwan Relations Act, which we intend tend to take a long view of these things and to honor. Our policy is clear: We favor the have made clear a sensitivity to the different ‘‘one China’’ policy; we favor the cross-strait system that exists on Taiwan and a willing- dialogs. The understanding we have had all ness to find ways to accommodate it, as they along with both China and Taiwan is that the did in working with Hong Kong, and per- differences between them would be resolved haps, even going beyond that. peacefully. If that were not to be the case, So I think the important thing is to let— under the Taiwan Relations Act, we would they need to take the time necessary to work be required to view it with the gravest con- this out between themselves in a peaceful cern. way. That is clearly in both their interests. But I believe that both China and Taiwan And I’m still not entirely sure, because I have understand this. I believe that they want to read things which seem to resonate both stay on a path to prosperity and dialog. And ways on this, exactly what the Lee statements we have dispatched people today, as the were entitled—trying to convey. morning press reports, to do what we can But I think that both sides are now quite to press that case to all sides. This is something that we don’t want to see escalate, and aware of the fact that they need to find a I believe that what Mr. Lee said yesterday way to pursue their destinies within the was trying to move in that direction. We all framework that we have followed these last understand how difficult this is, but I think several years, which I might add has allowed that the pillars of the policy are still the right both places to prosper and to grow, to do ones. The ‘‘one China’’ policy is right; the better, and to have more contacts, more in- cross-strait dialog is right; the peaceful ap- vestment, and underneath the rhetoric, quite proach is right. And neither side, in my judg- a bit more reconciliation. So I would hope ment, should depart from any of those ele- that we would stay with what is working and ments. not depart from it. Q. So we would still have to go to war Q. Is that the meaning of the delay of the with China if it decided to break away? Pentagon mission to assess the—— The President. I will say what I’ve already The President. I didn’t think this was the said. The Taiwan Relations Act governs our best time to do something which might excite policy. We made it clear. And I have—as you either one side or the other and imply that remember, a few years ago we had a physical a military solution is an acceptable alter- expression of that, that we don’t believe there native. If you really think about what’s at should be any violent attempts to resolve this, stake here, it would be unthinkable. And I and we would view it very seriously. But I want—I don’t want to depart from any of don’t believe there will be. I think that both the three pillars. I think we need to stay with sides understand what needs to be done. ‘‘one China’’; I think we need to stay with Terry [Terence Hunt, Associated Press]. the dialog; and I think that no one should Q. Mr. President, do you think that Presi- contemplate force here. dent Lee was unnecessarily provocative in Randy [Randy Mikkelsen, Reuters]. trying to redefine the nature of the Taiwan- Chinese relationship? And is the United Federal Reserve Board Chairman States trying to send a signal by delaying a Pentagon mission which was going to Taiwan Q. Economists have been calling on you to assess its air defense needs? And further, to indicate now whether you intend to re- finally, you said that you still believe in a ‘‘one appoint Alan Greenspan in order to avoid China’’ policy. How do you address Senator having the issue to become mired in election- Helms’ criticism that it’s a—that that policy year politics and upsetting financial markets is a puzzling fiction? next year. Would you like to see the Chair- The President. Well, I don’t think it’s a man stay on, and has he given you any indica- puzzling fiction. I think that—but if Senator tion of his plans? Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 21 1441

The President. I have, as you know, en- Larrabee, I think it was the day before yes- joyed a very good relationship, both person- terday, at a time when the operation might ally and professionally, with Mr. Greenspan. normally have ceased, and he said, ‘‘I think I think he has done a terrific job. I have no we have a chance to find something else be- idea whether he would even be willing to cause of the equipment we have here, even serve another term. I will make the decision though it’s difficult; and I’m inclined to be- in a timely fashion. I do not expect it to believe, because of the circumstances here and come embroiled in election-year politics; because who’s involved, that we ought to go there’s no evidence of that. on a little more.’’ And I said that I would You heard—I think the Vice President said support it and defend it. And I think it was yesterday or the day before that he thought the right decision. he was doing an excellent job. So we believe Q. Mr. President, if you’ll allow me to ask that as long as the United States is fiscally you about two different topics. On the responsible, then the Fed will respond to de- Kennedy search, sir, there have been con- velopments in our own economy and in the flicting reports about whether or not Mr. world economy in a way that is clear, trans- Kennedy’s body has, in fact, been recovered. parent, and, I think, designed to keep our I understand that based upon the answer you growth going. So I’m not concerned about just gave, that might not be a question that it. you’d want to address, but, perhaps, given Peter [Peter Maer, NBC Mutual Radio], the fact that there is this conflicting informa- go ahead. tion you could answer that question. Q. I think the Vice President indicated he And secondly, sir, on this notion of a drug was sending a signal by saying that Chairman benefit, prescription drug benefit, you chid- Greenspan had been doing an excellent job. ed the Republicans about targeting tax cuts Do you endorse that interpretation? The President. I don’t know. All I know at the wealthy, saying that they’re too steered is he said he was doing a great job, and I in that direction. How do you reconcile that agree with him. philosophically with allowing rich Americans, Go ahead. rich older Americans, to get a prescription drug benefit which even you just said this John F. Kennedy, Jr., Aircraft Tragedy/ new study will show one in four don’t need? Medicare The President. Well, first of all, it’s vol- Q. Mr. President, you mentioned the untary. And most wealthy Americans are well Kennedy tragedy at the beginning of the taken care of under the present program they news conference. Could you please give us have and won’t exercise it. So that’s the first a better understanding of what the White point I want to make. House role has been in the conduct of the The second thing I would like to say is recovery operation and the decisionmaking I don’t think most people know this, even on the release of information about it? some of you may have forgotten, but in the The President. Well, I think that—I am 11th hour of the balanced budget—of the unaware of any role we have played in the deficit reduction package negotiations in decisionmaking of the release of information, 1993, in order to get up to $500 billion in except, let me say that today a lot of things cuts in the deficit projected over 5 years— are breaking in a hurry, and I believe there we did much better, as all of you know— are some decisions that ought to be an- the cap was taken off. The income cap was nounced by the Kennedy family and others taken off of the Medicare tax, which means that ought to be properly announced by ei- virtually every single upper income person ther the Coast Guard or the NTSB. in America will pay far more into the Medi- So we have not tried—to the best of my care program than they will ever draw out knowledge, had any role in the timing or sub- in health care or benefits. stance of the release of information. And we They are making a net significant contribu- have had no role in the conduct of the oper- tion today because, unlike Social Security ation except that I did talk to Admiral taxes where there is still an earnings cap, 1442 July 21 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 there is no longer an earnings cap on Medi- Our studies show that their tax cut over care. And I think a lot of folks have forgotten the next two decades will cost, first, a trillion that. So that in that sense, this is the most dollars, and then 3 trillion in the second dec- progressive program we have. The upper in- ade, and that—then an enormous loss to the come people, particularly once you get over American people in interest savings. That is, about $250,000 in income, they’re paying far we’ll have to keep spending more and more more into this program over the course of of our tax money paying interest on the debt, their life than they could ever draw out if and it will require huge cuts in education and they were sick every day from the time defense and other things. they’re 65 on. You cannot—they simply cannot credibly Q. Sir, the question—[inaudible]—Mr. make that statement. And they don’t put any Kennedy’s body? new money into the Medicare program. And The President. I just don’t think I should they don’t have a Medicare reform package make an announcement about that. I am out there. So unless they just simply propose aware of what the Coast Guard has done and to bankrupt all the teaching hospitals and a what they have found as of 5 minutes before lot of the other hospitals in the country and I came out here. But I simply—I just don’t let the Medicare program wither away, as think it’s appropriate for me—I’ll be glad to one of the previous leaders so eloquently put comment on whatever they want to say, but it, they can’t possibly finance this tax program I think I should leave it for them to talk. without doing serious damage. I can’t com- Yes, go ahead. ment on the CBO study, but it doesn’t make any sense to anybody I’ve talked to about it. Q. May I just follow up? Congressional Budget Office Estimates The President. Yes. Q. Sir, you talked about how expensive the Q. The CBO estimates the cost of your Republican tax cuts would be. But the Con- Medicare reforms are more than twice what gressional Budget Office has now just come you say they are. out with a report saying that even with their The President. Well, again you have evi- tax cuts, almost $800 billion in tax cuts, they dence. Let me just say this: In the 1997 bal- would save about $277 billion over a 10-year anced budget agreement we agreed to a period, whereby your program would save Medicare savings figure, okay. And this is the only about $50 billion; that’s about $227 bil- reason all these teaching hospitals are in lion difference. How do you reconcile that? trouble today. We agreed to a Medicare sav- And, you know, people on the Hill listen to ings figure, and we said, ‘‘Okay, here is our the CBO. health information’’—this is what we do in The President. They listen to the CBO the executive branch; we deal with these hos- except where it’s inconvenient for them, like pitals—‘‘here are the changes you need to the Patients’ Bill of Rights. The Republicans make in the Medicare program to achieve have freed us all now to question the CBO, the savings that the Republicans and the since they ignored the CBO in the Patients’ Democrats in Congress and the White House Bill of Rights; they have discredited their agreed on.’’ And the CBO said, ‘‘No, no, no, own CBO. no, that won’t come close; you need these Let me say, I haven’t seen that CBO ac- changes plus these changes.’’ And we said, counting. All I can tell you is that all of our ‘‘Okay, we’re following the CBO; we put it budget people were rolling their eyes and in there.’’ What happened? And that’s one saying that it was a very creative study. of the reasons the surplus is somewhat bigger Let me just say this: You have 61⁄2 years than it otherwise would be—the cuts in of experience with the numbers we have Medicare were far more severe. Our num- given you and the estimates we have made. bers were right; their numbers were wrong; And every single year, our numbers have not and that’s why you’ve got all these hospitals only been accurate, but we have done better all over America, every place I go, talking than we said we would do—every single year, about how they’re threatened with bank- for 61⁄2 years now. ruptcy. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 21 1443

So when it comes to estimating Medicare him that he was committed to working in costs, again, we have evidence. And when- partnership with Chairman Arafat and honor- ever there’s been a difference between us ing any agreements that had been made to and the CBO, we’ve been right, and they’ve this point and that any modifications they been wrong. That’s all I can tell you. No seri- made, going forward, to the benefit of either ous person—so what are they going to do or both sides would have to be done by mu- about Medicare? They say our drug program tual agreement; that I thought he was com- will cost more. They don’t put a red cent pletely committed to resolve all the issues into it; what are they going to do about it? outstanding in the peace process in an expe- Even if you don’t have a drug program, if ditious manner. And what I urged him to do you adopt their tax cut program, they won’t was to have this one-on-one meeting, hear be able to do anything to extend the solvency him out, think it through, and if he wanted of Medicare, and they will have to have huge to talk to me again after the meeting oc- cuts. curred, that I would be happy to talk to him. For them to produce those savings, they So I went out of my way not to describe are going to—they can’t even fund my de- Prime Minister Barak’s proposals or to advo- fense budget, much less the one they say they cate or not advocate, but simply to say that want. They’re going to have cuts in defense, I was convinced they were being made in cuts in education, cuts in the environment. complete good faith and that they would— That’s all their savings assumed, that they’re that the peace process would be revitalized going to stay with the present budget levels, and whatever they did from here on out is which they, themselves, are trying to get out something that they would do together. And of even as we speak here today. So this is— I think he felt good about that. And I did the American people are not—I mean, this say, ‘‘After you have the meeting, if you want is not rocket science; this is arithmetic. to talk about this around, I’ll be glad to talk And we’ve been dealing with—we went to you.’’ And he said he did. So that’s where from creative supply-side mathematics to we are. elemental arithmetic in 1993. And it has Sarah. Go ahead, Sarah. served us very well. And all I’m trying to do is stick with basic arithmetic and get this Public Posting of Daily White House country out of debt, save Social Security and Activities Medicare, provide this prescription drug Q. Sir, your microphone is not working ap- benefit, keep us moving forward. parently; it seems like you’re talking very low. Q. Mr. President? We can barely hear you. But in the mean- The President. Go ahead, John [John time, don’t you think it would be a good idea King, Cable News Network]. if we announced for the country’s sake the Q. Mr. President? list of conferences to be held at the White The President. Next. Let me take John’s House each day, and the list of the people first, then I’ll take you, Sarah [Sarah whom the President has appointments with? McClendon, McClendon News Service]. The President. I don’t know. I never thought about it. Don’t you have a list of the Telephone Conversation With Chairman conferences we have every day here? Yasser Arafat of the Palestinian Authority Q. No, indeed. We do—and what if we Q. Sir, in your conversation with Chairman find out you haven’t any? Arafat this morning, did you ask him to take The President. Well, I think I ought to any specific steps to advance what you be- talk to our folks about it, but I will consider lieve is new momentum toward peace, and that. did you discuss with him his complaints yes- Go ahead. terday that he found Prime Minister Barak’s 15-month timetable unacceptable? Balkan Summit and Aid to Serbia The President. Well, I told him only this, Q. Will you be taking any concrete con- I said that—I generally described my meet- tributions with you to the Balkan summit on ings with Prime Minister Barak to him. I told investment next week? And you’ve said that 1444 July 21 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 you would give only humanitarian aid to F–22 Funding Yugoslavia as long as Milosevic is in power. Q. Mr. President, the House of Represent- Will you have any trouble defining that? Will atives appears to be on the verge of terminat- that cause any problems in distinguishing being funding for the F–22 fighter. Will the tween humanitarian and other aid? White House fight hard for full funding for The President. Well, let me say that I that program, even if it means sacrificing hope very much that there will be some posi- other Pentagon airplane programs or even tive, concrete commitments that come out pay for servicemen? of the meeting that we’re going to have. I The President. Well, I don’t think we do not believe we can achieve the future we should sacrifice the pay for our service per- want in the Balkans and avoid future ethnic sonnel because we now are getting back in conflicts unless there is a unifying vision the ballgame in recruitment. You know, which both brings the Balkan States closer we’ve really been—the good economy and together in their economic and political self- the increased deployments and the low pay, interests and then brings the region as a all combined, it’d be making it hard for us whole closer to Europe. to both recruit and retain people. And the And so I think that we have to have some people are still the most important part of incentives to move in that direction. And our military—their quality and their training there are direct—there are also indirect and their morale and their commitment and things the United States can do to help to the condition of their families. So I don’t think that. contribute to that goal. And because of all Now, the Congress every year puts other the other things that have been going on— things into the defense budget which are not you know it’s been a very busy 2 or 3 weeks— priorities for the Pentagon, and are priorities we haven’t actually had an opportunity to sit for the Congress. We can fund the F–22; we down and go through what our options are, can fund the plane without compromising so I can’t give you a more specific answer. the basic priorities of our national defense But I will say this: If what we have done within the funds set aside, and that is what in Bosnia and what we have done in Kosovo I will fight to do. I think it would be a mistake is to have lasting benefits, we have got to to abandon the project. I think it has real find a way to create closer unity among the potential to add to our national defense. I Balkan States themselves, and then with the have always supported it, and I hope that it region and Europe. And that is what I am can be preserved. working on. And what was the second question you 2000 Elections asked? Q. Thank you, Mr. President, You had Q. On the humanitarian aid, how will you some fun, recently, with George W. Bush define it? and his slogan of ‘‘compassionate conserv- The President. Oh, yes. There may be— atism.’’ But you went beyond the notion that frankly, there may be some differences of he’s not offering many details as policy and opinion. As you know, I tend to take a rather seemed to ridicule his slogan and even ques- narrow view of it because I don’t think that tion his sincerity. Were you just trying to help we should, in effect, reward Mr. Milosevic’s Mr. Gore’s candidacy, or were you taking the political control by doing things which are opportunity maybe to just needle the leading not humanitarian in nature. But based on the Republican candidate? virtual daily reports I get about where we The President. No, I was just having a all are on this and where we are operating little fun. [Laughter] You know, this is such in Kosovo, I now no longer expect them to a long time; if we don’t have any laughs, it’s be big debates. I don’t expect there will be going to be a very tedious struggle between a big difference of opinion. now and November of 2000. Yes, go ahead, John [John M. Broder, New Let me say this. I think that every person York Times]. struggles to find a phrase or something that Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 21 1445 will sort of stand for what he or she is trying counts for that sentiment for change, and do to do. So I was really just having a little fun. you think it means that you present some- I think the most important thing is that thing of a mixed blessing to Mrs. Clinton and all the candidates make their positions clear Vice President Gore in their campaigns next on the great debates going on now, and make year? their positions clear on what they would do The President. I think what that means if they got the job. To me, that’s the most is people think things are going well, but they important thing. You know, I am not involved want a change in policy. I think that’s right. in this campaign as a candidate, and I have If you asked me that question, and you word- a full-time job, so I’m not involved in any ed it in that way, I’d be in the 50 percent, sort of full-time consulting role. [Laughter] because I think that—my own view is that So I look at this more from the point of view in a—particularly in a dynamic time, where of the average American voter: What will things are changing, you should want contin- change the lives of America? ued change. But is change—the question is, For example, every candidate should tell should we change in a way that builds on us, are you for the Patients’ Bill of Rights; what has been done and goes beyond it, are you for closing the gun show loophole; which is what I would argue; or should you are you for raising the minimum wage; are change and go back to the policies we were you for the House Republican tax plan, or following when we had $290 billion deficits do you favor our plan on Social Security and and we averaged over 7 percent unemploy- saving Social Security and Medicare, making ment for 12 years? I mean, I think that’s real- America debt-free, and having a smaller tax ly the question the American people have to cut that enables us to continue to fund edu- ask themselves. cation and defense and these other things? I think change is good. The great thing What are you going to do if you get elected? about this country is that it works best when To me, the best thing the Vice President it’s sort of in a perpetual stage of renewal. had done is to talk about dramatically inten- So I would, myself, as a citizen, I would vote sifying the war on cancer; making preschool against somebody who said, ‘‘Vote for me, universal; increasing access to college by and I’ll keep it just like it is; everything that helping people save without tax con- Bill Clinton did is exactly what I’ll do.’’ I sequences; what he could do to make Amer- would vote against that candidate, because ica a safer country; what he would do in com- I do not believe that is the right thing to munities to have faith-based organizations do. cooperate with governments more. I think But what I think we should do is we should these are interesting ideas about how you build on the progress of the last 6 years and build on the progress the country has made go beyond it, and not adopt a completely dif- the last 61⁄2 years. ferent approach which has been proven not So I would say to everyone, use whatever to work. So all I want the American people slogans you want, but tell us where you stand. to do is to remember what it was like before, I think that’s the most important thing. think what it’s like now, recognize that ideas Susan [Susan Page, USA Today]. and policies have consequences. And the Q. Mr. President—— American people usually get it right; that’s The President. Yes, I’ll come over here. why we’re all still around here after more I know I’m left-leaning, but I will give you— than 200 years. [laughter]. Q. [Inaudible] Q. Mr. President, the economy is going The President. No. great. In a new USA Today-CNN poll this Q. [Inaudible]—for Mrs. Clinton and Mr. week, your approval rating was at a very Gore? healthy 58 percent. But that same poll The President. No, because I—he has showed that by 50 percent to 38 percent, done—look at what the Vice President’s Americans said they wanted to see a change done. He’s staked out new issues here. He from Clinton administration policies, not a said, ‘‘Here’s how I’m going to change what continuation of them. What do you think ac- we’re doing in cancer research; here’s how 1446 July 21 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

I’m going to change what we’re doing in edu- by both parties over providing more for peo- cation; here’s how I’m going to change what ple who already are lucky enough to have we’re doing in crime’’—but not to reverse health insurance. And in fact, neither party what we’ve done, but to build on it and go dealt with some very fundamental issues that beyond it. So I think that’s very, very—that’s energized you and the First Lady 5 and 6 the sort of thing that’s worthy of debate. years ago. The question is, with such a robust That’s not the same; that is change. economy and the budget surpluses, if not What the American people have to decide now, when, and if not you, who, would pro- is what kind of change do they want. Do they vide the leadership to provide for those folks? want to build on what has worked for the The President. Yes, but I think the bigger last 61⁄2 years, or do they want to abandon question is how. That is, it is true that just it and go back to what failed them for 12 as we’ve predicted in 1993 and 1994, that years before? That will be the decision they the percentage of people who have health have to make. insurance on the job is going down, just as Yes, go ahead. we said it would, if nothing was done. So what we have tried to do is to isolate discrete Syria-U.S. Relations/Iran populations that seem to be most in need Q. In your last press conference, sir, with and try to offer them help. Prime Minister Ehud Barak, you mentioned In the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, we you wanted better, normalized relations with reached bipartisan agreement on a proposal Syria. Now, have you received any response, that would fund providing health insurance positive response or indication from Syria to- for up to 5 million more children through wards that? And on Iran, can you share with State-designed programs. Now, I’ve been a us the administration’s views of the last little disappointed—and I’m not being criti- events and administrations in Iran? Thank cal of any of the States, either, here—but you. I’ve been a little disappointed that the uptake The President. Well, on Syria let me say, on the program has been a little slow. That the only thing I can tell you is that the state- is, I would have thought by now we’d have ments, at least, that have been coming out almost 3 million of those 5 million children of Syria have been quite encouraging in enrolled already because we’ve got the terms of the regard that President Asad money there, and we’re well behind that. seems to have for Prime Minister Barak, and So we are looking at whether there are the willingness, the openness that there is things that we can do at the national level to negotiating and moving toward peace. So to work with the States to simplify access to I’m encouraged by that. the children’s health insurance programs that And on Iran, frankly, I’m reluctant to say the States have set up. And I also had a talk anything for fear that it will be used in a with Senator Kennedy the other day, who be- way that’s not helpful to the forces of open- lieves that for little or no more extra money, ness and reform. I think that people every- we could actually adjust the program and where, particularly younger people, hope take in several million more children. So the that they will be able to pursue their religious children are the biggest group. convictions and their personal dreams in an Then, I have a proposal, as you know, atmosphere of greater freedom that still al- that’s part of my Medicare reform proposal lows them to be deeply loyal to their nation. that I didn’t mention today, but I want to And I think the Iranian people obviously love reiterate it, that would allow the most vulner- their country and are proud of its history and able group of people without health insur- have enormous potential. And I just hope ance, people between the ages of 55 and 65, they find a way to work through all this, and to buy into the Medicare system in a way I believe they will. that would not compromise the integrity of the system. So I think that is quite important. Health Insurance In addition to that, there are a lot of Q. You mentioned the Patients’ Bill of States—excuse me, there are some States— Rights. It seems like that was an argument Tennessee was the first State to do this under Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 21 1447 the former Governor, Mr. McWherter; they believes that was wrong, the Coast Guard is started it—which are allowing lower income not at fault; I am. It was because I thought working families to buy into their Medicaid it was the right thing to do under the cir- programs on a sliding scale. cumstances. So if all these things were done, we would Now, you asked about—John Kennedy dramatically reduce the number of people had actually not been back to the White without health insurance, and we’ll eventu- House since his father was killed, until I be- ally, probably, get down to—if we keep push- came President. First, he was on an advisory ing in this direction, get down to the point committee that made a report to me, and where the largest group of people without he came back to the Oval Office, where he health insurance are young, single people saw the desk that he took the famous picture who believe that they’re going to live forever in, coming through the gate, for the first time and be healthy forever and don’t want to bear since he was a little boy. the cost. And we’ll have to think about, then, And then last year, maybe you would have what to do. a better memory than I would, but it seems But I think the best thing to do is try to to me it was last May, when we had the event get as many kids as we can covered and then at the White House celebrating the series try to get these people who are out of the that HBO did on the Apollo program. Do work force who are older, but they’re not you remember they did a series on the space old enough to get Medicare, to get them at program that was done after the movie came least where they can all afford, on a sliding out? And Tom Hanks came; a lot of people scale, to buy into the Medicare program. came. And he was invited because of his fa- Go ahead, Scott [Scott Pelley, CBS News]. ther’s role in starting the space program. And John F. Kennedy, Jr. he and Carolyn came. And afterward I asked Q. Thank you, Mr. President. On the them if they would like to go upstairs, and Kennedy tragedy, sir, will you authorize the he said he would. So I took him upstairs and Navy to participate in a burial at sea cere- showed him the residence, which he’d not mony? Why do you believe it’s justified to seen since he was a tiny boy. spend so many Federal resources on this And I showed him some of my—the tragedy? And finally, sir, I wonder if you memorabilia that I had from his father’s serv- would give us your thoughts on Mr. ice. I have a picture of his father speaking Kennedy’s last visit here to the White House. to the Irish Parliament, and a number of I understand you and the First Lady took other things which he thought were very in- him on a tour. teresting. And we took a—we had a very nice The President. Well, we have received— evening. And I sent him the pictures from I have received no official word, personal it. And then, in return, he sent me a signed word from the family about what burial ar- copy of his favorite picture of his father, rangements they want. Until they make a which is now upstairs. It’s John Kennedy statement about it, I just don’t feel that I campaigning in Virginia, in Charlottesville, in can say anything. 1960. It’s quite a lovely picture, interesting Secondly, I will say that until just a couple picture. of days ago the recovery efforts—the rescue, But it was a nice night. I think that he then the recovery efforts that were under- really wanted to kind of come to terms with taken, were consistent with what would have all of it. And I think he and Carolyn, they been done in any other case. Because the were delightful young people, and they had Coast Guard felt that they had the capacity a great time here that night. And Hillary and to succeed in this if they had a few more I loved having them here. It was quite a great days, and because of the role of the Kennedy night. family in our national lives, and because of Q. To just follow on that, sir, just one ques- the enormous losses that they have sustained tion, if I may. Is there anything that Mr. in our lifetimes, I thought it was appropriate Kennedy said to you that night that particu- to give them a few more days. And if anyone larly struck you? 1448 July 21 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

The President. We just had a friendly move our relationship in the right direction, conversation. You know, I knew him pretty so we’ll work on that. well by then. We’d been—I met him years On Colombia, I’m not prepared to make ago when he was a law student, doing a sum- any kind of dollar commitment today. But mer internship with Mickey Kantor’s law let me say, I have stayed in close touch with firm out in Los Angeles, long before I ever President Pastrana, and I admire the fact that thought I’d be here, and before I ever he has really thrown himself into trying to thought we’d have any other contacts. He end the civil conflicts in Colombia, to stop just happened to be—Mickey asked me if I’d the insurgency. The people in the United speak to his law clerks, because I was in L.A. States have a real interest in that because to give an education speech, and I went by I think that until the civil discord in Colom- and visited with them, and he was there. And bia is brought to an end, it is going to be we had been together on many occasions much, much harder for us to restrain the ac- since then. tivities of the narcotraffickers there, and their The thing that struck me was I thought reach. he was—he said he was glad to be back. And So, in addition to wanting a neighbor and I think he was a very deliberate person, as a democracy in Latin America to be free of many people have noticed, about when he the kind of violence and heartbreak that the would be publicly exposed and all of that. Colombian people have undergone because He had his mother’s care for having a private of this, it is also very much in our national life. And I think that he had not—I’m not security interest to do what we can, if we sure he had really felt he wanted to come can be helpful in ending the civil conflict, back to the White House before he did. But so that Colombia can be about the business especially in light of everything that’s hap- of freeing itself of the influence of the pened, I’m glad he had the chance to come narcotraffickers in ways that would be good back here one more time and see the resi- for Colombians and good for us as well. dence and know where he was when he was 2000 Election a little boy. I’m glad he did that. I’m grateful that that happened. Q. Another question about the Presi- Yes, go ahead. Yes, yes, please. dential race. Aside from asking George W. Bush to come forward and give specifics on the issues that you mentioned, could you tell Colombia and Mexico us what you find objectionable about this try- Q. On Colombia, the Pastrana administra- ing to present a new moderate face for his tion are asking the United States for $500 party, just like you did for the Democrats? million to support the military against the And could you tell us whether you’re worried guerrillas. Is your administration ready to re- whether he will figure out how the Repub- spond to that request? And also, the Colom- licans can occupy the center of American pol- bians are asking for more direct intervention itics? from the United States. Are you considering The President. No. this possibility? And also, Mexico, you’re Q. You don’t think he can? going to meet with President Zedillo in Octo- The President. No, no. I don’t think I’ll ber. And the Mexican Government is still re- answer those questions. [Laughter] I will jecting the extraditions of major drug lords. say—no, look, let me say again, I wouldn’t What are you going to ask him? You’re going even agree with the characterization you gave to get assurance from him to extradite these of my first answer. big narcotic traffickers to the United States? When I ran for President in 1991, the first The President. Well, you know, we had thing I did was tell the American people what no extraditions between Mexico and the I thought was going on in our country and United States for a long time, and we’ve actu- what I would do. And if you remember, the ally had some now. So we’ve moving in the late Senator Paul Tsongas and I were actually right direction. And President Zedillo and I almost ridiculed at the time because we both have been pretty successful in continuing to put out these very detailed plans of what we Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 21 1449 would do. If you go back and get one of those tion was certainly at risk. And I have fought plans now, you’ll see that virtually everything for it, and I believe in it. And one of the we said we’d do, we did do, except for the things I talked to—Neil Armstrong and Buzz things we tried to do and were defeated on. Aldrin and Michael Collins were in to see And my view is that there are a lot of things me yesterday, and we talked about where we that count in a Presidential election toward could go with this. And Dan Goldin was a successful Presidency, but it is—that go be- there, the NASA Administrator, and Dr. Neal yond specific issues, and judgment plays a Lane, my science adviser, and we talked role in it, and crises will always come up, about how we could use the coming of the and things can be learned and all that. But millennium as—you know, the First Lady it really matters where you stand on the big sponsored all these other lectures here. And issues that everybody knows about that are I told him about Stephen Hawking’s lecture going on right now, and it matters where and what he said. And we talked yesterday we’re going in the future. about how we could set some goals for the So that’s the only point I want to make. space program, capture the imagination of And I think any—I would say that applies the American people, and broaden the sup- to every candidate. I don’t want to answer port for it. the questions you ask me because that’s not And one of the things that I suggested, my job. My job is not to handicap this horse that I think would be quite helpful, that we’re race, not to comment on it, not to comment going to work on now, is what we can do on the candidates. My job is to work for the to dramatize for the American people—you American people. But I’m going to answer mentioned Mars, but I think what is more these questions from the point of view of Joe likely to capture the imagination of the Citizen. That’s it. Every political question American people are the benefits to us here you ask me from now on, I’m going to pre- on Earth of continued advances in space. tend that I’m living back in Little Rock al- And some of them, particularly in the health ready and I’m working on my Presidential field, are likely to be breathtaking. They’re library and I’m sitting here as a voter saying, principally in the area of the environment where do they stand, what will they do, all and health. of them? And I do believe the Vice President So I asked our people to start working on has done the best job of telling the American that and they said they would be willing to people what he would do and—to go back help us. I have to tell you that it was a great to Susan’s formulation—how he would day for me yesterday to have them come by change the country in a positive way. the White House. They also gave me a Moon George [George Condon, Copley News rock, by the way, but only on loan. [Laughter] Service]. And the Moon rock is 3.6 billion years old. So when I feel very tired, I’ll look at it and Space Program feel young again. [Laughter] Q. Mr. President, as the Nation has cele- Yes, go ahead. We had an Irish question brated the 30th anniversary of the Moon first, I promised. Go ahead, what’s the Irish landing, a lot of the former astronauts have question? lamented that no President after Kennedy set Q. Thank you, sir. Given the—— a kind of national goal like President The President. You want to ask one, too? Kennedy did of landing on the Moon. Do you think that, in your view, is the country Northern Ireland Peace Process/Africa not receptive today to that kind of goal- Q. We both have a—given the various setting by a President, or is it something a meetings underway with Mo Mowlam here, President should do, set a goal of landing on and George Mitchell there, has any progress Mars? been made on the Irish situation? And is one The President. Well, we are planning to side more to blame than the other on it? land on Mars. But I think that for one thing, The President. Okay. Why don’t we take when I became President, the space program both Irish questions at once. What’s your was actually in peril. And we—the space sta- Irish question? 1450 July 21 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Q. Last week you seemed to kind of get will never disarm if they let the Sinn Fein fired up when you were talking to the teen- go into the executive branch, and the IRA agers from Colorado. You said that the politi- do not believe, since the agreement did not cians in Northern Ireland were behaving akin require decommissioning as a condition of to school children. Do you feel, after all the getting into the executive branch, they don’t work that you’ve done on this project, that want to have to spend the rest of their lives perhaps it was misplaced, and you should being told that it wasn’t the vote of the peo- have perhaps pushed in a place more like ple, it wasn’t the Good Friday accord, it was Africa, where they have thousands of people what the Unionists and Great Britain did to dying from ethnic strife, instead of 3,500 over force them to give up their arms that got 30 years? them to disarm. They believe that would, in Q. And if I can have a third Irish question, effect, require them to disavow what they’ve what role, if any, do you expect to play, Mr. done for 30 years. President, in breaking the deadlock? And what they’re saying is, ‘‘When we sur- The President. Okay, let me answer the render our arms, we’re surrendering to our Irish questions; then I’ll come back to the people. Our people voted for this. We are ‘‘Should we have done something else?’’ surrendering to the will of the people that I’ve talked to Senator Mitchell, and he is we represent.’’ So when you put it in that willing to spend some time—he can’t go back textured way on both sides, it makes it clear full-time for another year or 2, but I’d like why it becomes a difficult issue. And I can’t to put this in some—at least I’d like to tell think of anybody better to try to work you how I look at it. through it than George Mitchell, because Obviously, I am very disappointed at the he’s got it all in his head and he’s put 3 years breakdown of the process here. But I do into it. But my instinct is that we will get think it’s important to note that neither side this worked out. wants to abandon the Good Friday agree- Now, you asked about did I think we had ment. And that’s very important. It’s also im- misplaced our energies. I don’t think so. We portant to note that everybody agrees on have—for one thing, we don’t have a stronger what their responsibilities are and what the partner in the world than Great Britain, and other side’s responsibilities are, and every- for another, we don’t have a bigger ethnic body agrees that it all has to be done by a group in America than the Irish, and we’re date certain. tied by blood and emotion to the Irish strug- So they have agreed to break out the two gle. I also think that it has enormous symbol- areas causing problems, the decommission- ism, beyond the size of the country and the ing and the standing up to the executive, and number who have died. And if it can be re- try to figure out how they can unlock that, solved, I think it will give great impetus to and Mo Mowlam, as you pointed out, is the forces of peace throughout the world. So working hard on it, and they’ve asked Senator I don’t believe for a moment we made a mis- Mitchell to come back and do some work take. on it, and my instinct is that it will be re- But let me also say I think we should be solved. more involved in Africa, and I’ve tried to in- Now, let me say in terms of your character- volve us more in Africa. I did everything I ization, here’s the problem. To the out- could to head off that civil war between Ethi- siders—I told the parties that to the out- opia and Eritrea. It’s not a civil war; they siders—no one, none of us outside, even are two separate countries, but they once somebody like me that’s been so involved in were together and they’re basically now argu- this, no one will understand if this thing ing over the divorce settlement. And I don’t breaks down over who goes first; that that mean to trivialize it in that characterization. did sound like the kind of argument that And we are still actively involved in trying young people have, you know. Who goes to stop that. first? Reverend Jackson played a significant role Underneath that, there’s something deep- in trying to end the awful carnage in Sierra er. The Protestants are afraid that the IRA Leone, and I’m very grateful for that. We’re Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 21 1451 now working, and we’re able to work with The President. Well, a lot of things that Nigeria to try to stabilize the region. We are are good for America don’t make good news training African militaries and the Africa Cri- for them, you see. sis Response Corps, so that we can, hope- Q. And I have a followup. [Laughter] fully, prevent further carnage. So I believe The President. No, let me just say— the United States should be more involved [laughter]—a followup? [Laughter] Now, in Africa. that’s really good. That is really—oh, God, And of course, the announcement that the is that good. Vice President made on our behalf the other Let me just say that we will have a lot of day of our new AIDS initiative in some ways celebrations of the 200th birthday of the may be the most important thing we can do White House next year, and it’s neat that it to save lives there. coincides with the first year of the new cen- So I agree that we should be more in- tury and the millennium. So we’ll have—I’m volved. But I don’t agree that we misplaced not prepared to announce them yet, because our energies in Ireland. I’m proud of every I want others who deserve more credit than late night phone call and every frustrating I do to be able to do that. But it will be hour I’ve spent on it. a signal honor for us to be living here in that Yes, go ahead. year, and we’ll be able to do a lot. And I Q. Can I ask about you? hope we’ll have even more American citizens The President. Well, I don’t want to talk coming to the White House next year to be about me. a part of it. Q. Oh, come on. Go ahead. Just that followup—that showed The President. I’m not a candidate for a lot of guts. [Laughter] If this is a followup, anything. I’ll give you another question. [Laughter] Go ahead, what? Go ahead. All right, one more. Support for Vice President Gore and First Lady White House Bicentennial Q. Sir, you’ve stressed that you have plenty Q. Listen Mr. President, with due respect, to do, and yet for some time, your political in another development, I know that you are career has enjoyed the benefits of support for Africa, and you know that I support the from two people in particular—the Vice initiative of Africa, now, of my friend the President and the First Lady—two people President of the Dominican Republic be- who are now in a position to expect some cause we are Afro-Latino. But I am not con- support from you. I’m wondering what you cerned at this moment about Mars. I am con- feel you owe those two people in terms of cerned about a place where I have been for political support, and as you plan your sched- 20 years, the White House, that is going to ule in the weeks and months ahead, how celebrate 200 years next year. I wonder if you’ll balance that assistance against your job you would tell the people of the United as President, and finally, how you personally States what you are going to plan for that are adjusting to what people might think is big celebration? an interesting shift in role. And another thing, Mr. President, I am Q. I have a followup to his question. disgusted with you. You have been hiding [Laughter] something extraordinary, the performance of The President. Now, I believe that. the trade promotional coordinating commit- [Laughter] tee, that has been carrying out in the last Well, I will do whatever I’m asked to do, year a national exporting strategy, are the basically. I’ll try to be helpful. And if I can participants in the prospective of this econ- be helpful, I will be. But I think the best omy. Why don’t you speak about the success thing I can do for anyone who generally of that initiative? It’s a sin that you—[inaudi- shares our ideas, is part of our party, trying ble]—you talk about a lot of things that is to move the country forward, is to continue nothing, another thing that is good for Amer- to be a good President and take care of our ica and the prosperity of the world. country. 1452 July 21 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

But I don’t mind hard work and I don’t home—I’m going to be home and build my mind long hours, and I find myself, appar- library and build my center—I’ll divide my ently unlike some of my predecessors—but time between there and New York, whatever I just read what you all say about it—but she does about this Senate race. I don’t feel myself winding down; I feel my- But if I can help her in any way, I will, self keying up. I want to do more. I want because I think it would be a great thing for to try to make sure that I give the American the country, not only because of what I owe people as much as I can every day. So I’ve her—she just—what she knows and how got plenty of energy, and I’ll do whatever she’s lived and what she’s done. I mean, it’s I’m asked to do. very unusual to find somebody like that who I owe them a great deal. I think Al Gore— has that much knowledge and background everybody in this room knows that he’s had and passion all packed into one place. I far more responsibility and gotten more done mean, I know that you think I’m a biased that any Vice President in history. Nobody’s observer, but I think I could support it with ever had a role that even approximates that. evidence. I don’t think the American people know that Q. Mr. President—— yet, but I know that. And he deserves a lot The President. Go ahead, Bill [Bill of credit for what he’s done, and he has my Plante, CBS News]. friendship and my support. But I also think that it’s a mixed blessing, as you say, because President’s Future Plans people want to see any Vice President out there on his own. If you go back and look Q. In that same vein, sir—[laughter]—as at where Richard Nixon was in 1959, you will the spotlight shifts from you to your Vice see the same sort of thing. So I think I see President and to your wife, are you likely to this as a rhythmic process. I think he’ll do be content drifting slowly offstage, or do you fine. think that someday you will want to run for But the reason I think that has nothing office, some office again? Or are you willing to do with the questions you ask me. The to tell us this afternoon, sir, that you will reasons I think that are, A, he’s a good man never again run for elective office? with a good record, but most importantly, The President. I don’t have any idea. he’s out there telling the American people [Laughter] Really, I don’t know. Let me just how he would change the country for the say this. I love this job. I love it. Even on better. And I think that’s important. the bad days you can do something good for I did an interview, and I talked about the country; you can do something good for Hillary and this; if she decides to do this, the future. I have loved doing this. And I I will do whatever I can do. And if she’s suc- have given it every ounce of my energy and cessful, I will happily go to the Senate ability and judgment. And I feel very fortu- spouses meeting if that’s part of the job. I nate. But we have a system that I, frankly, have never known anybody who didn’t run agree with, even though I’m in pretty good for office who was a more effective, more shape. We have a system that says a President consistently committed, completely passion- gets two terms, and then the President has ate public citizen than her. So if she decides to go find something else to do with his life. to do it, and if the people of New York decide And there are lots of other worthy things to that they want her to do it, that’s a decision do. for them to make, and they have to deal with And I was a very happy person before I that. And she’s trying to deal with that, you became President. I’ve never had any trouble know, the whole question of moving there. finding something interesting to do that I be- It is true that shortly after we came here lieved in. And I will do my best to use the I said, ‘‘You get to decide where we live from opportunity and the gift the American people now on for the rest of our lives.’’ And she gave me to serve in this position to be a use- said, ‘‘I want to go to New York’’—in, like ful citizen of my country and the world for ’93. This is just something that happened the rest of my life, and I have no doubt that later. So I’ll be dividing my time between there will be some way I can do that. And Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 22 1453

I’m, frankly, kind of excited about it. I mean, Statement on Senate Inaction on the it’s a new challenge. I’ll have to think in a Nomination for Assistant Attorney different way and do a different way. General, Civil Rights Division Will I miss a lot of the things about this July 21, 1999 job? Yes. I’ll even miss all of you, believe it or not. [Laughter] But I’m just grateful I strongly support the efforts of the Na- that I’ve had the chance to serve and that tional Council of Asian Pacific Americans to the results have been good for our people call attention to the failure of the Senate to confirm Bill Lann Lee as Assistant Attorney and for our country and, I think, for the General for Civil Rights. world. I resubmitted Mr. Lee’s nomination to the And you know, that’s part of life. Life has Senate more than 4 months ago, yet the Sen- its rhythms. And the people that are most ate Judiciary Committee has not considered satisfied and most happy in life take the his nomination. Bill Lee has an excellent rhythms of life and make the most of them, record as Acting Assistant Attorney General instead of sitting around moping and wishing for the Civil Rights Division. Under his lead- the rhythms were something other than they ership, the Justice Department has enforced are. That’s just not the way the life works. our civil rights laws justly and fairly. The De- And listen, I’m way ahead, and I’m very partment is combating hate crimes, ensuring grateful. fair housing, fighting illegal discrimination against persons with disabilities, protecting Thank you very much. workers from exploitation, and taking other strong actions to protect people’s rights. Some of Mr. Lee’s opponents have decided to use his nomination as a means of expressing their disagreement with the civil NOTE: The President’s 179th news conference began at 2:35 p.m. in the East Room at the White rights laws themselves. This is wrong. He de- House. In his remarks, he referred to President serves to be considered based on his record Lee Teng-hui of Taiwan; Rear Adm. Richard M. and abilities, not blocked because some Sen- Larrabee, USCG, Commander, 1st Coast Guard ators disagree with the law of the land. To District, head of the search and recovery efforts refuse to allow the Senate to vote on his nom- off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard, MA, to locate ination does a disservice to the confirmation the missing aircraft that carried John F. Kennedy, process, to this outstanding nominee, and to Jr., his wife, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, and her the American people. sister Lauren Bessette; Prime Minister Ehud Barak of Israel; President Hafiz al-Asad of Syria; Gov. George W. Bush of Texas; former Gov. Ned Ray McWherter of Tennessee; actor Tom Hanks; Remarks in a Conversation on former U.S. Trade Representative Michael (Mick- Medicare in Lansing, Michigan ey) Kantor; President Ernesto Zedillo of Mexico; July 22, 1999 President Andres Pastrana of Colombia; Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin (Buzz) Aldrin, The President. Thank you, and good and Michael Collins; physicist Stephen W. Hawk- morning. I would like to begin by saying I ing; former Senator George W. Mitchell, who led am honored to be here. I thank all of you the multiparty talks in Northern Ireland; United Kingdom Secretary of State for Northern Ireland for coming. Somebody fell out of the chair— Marjorie Mowlam; civil rights activist Jesse Jack- are you all right? [Laughter] I wish I had son; and President Slobodan Milosevic of the Fed- a nickel for every time I’ve done that. eral Republic of Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montene- [Laughter] You okay now? Good. gro). A portion of this news conference could not Well, this is appropriate. I want to thank be verified because the tape was incomplete. your attorney general, Jennifer Granholm, 1454 July 22 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 for joining us; and Mayor Hollister, the State for President in 1992, and the people of legislators, county commissioners, and city Michigan have been very good to me and council members who are here. And I thank to Hillary and to Vice President and Mrs. President Anderson of the Lansing Commu- Gore. I’m very grateful for that. nity College for making me feel so welcome But it occurred to me if I had come here here. in ’92, and I’d say, ‘‘I want you to support I love community colleges, and I’m going me because if you do we’ve got a $290 billion to go visit with some of the students after deficit today, but I’ll be back here in 6 years I finish here, and I’m going to tell them they and we’ll talk about what to do with the sur- should also be for this. The younger they are plus.’’ Now, I think it’s fair to say that if I the more strongly they should feel about this, had said that people would have said, ‘‘He what we’re trying to do here. seems like a nice young man, but he’s terribly I would like to thank our sponsors today, out of touch’’—[laughter]—‘‘he doesn’t have the National Committee to Preserve Social any idea what he’s talking about. This guy Security and Medicare—the president Mar- is too far gone to have this job.’’ But that’s tha McSteen; the executive vice president, Max Richtman, are here. I thank the National what we’re doing here. Council of Senior Citizens and their execu- Six and a half years ago Michigan’s unem- tive director, Steve Protulis, who is here. The ployment rate was 7.4 percent. Today it’s 3.8 Older Women’s League National Board percent. We’ve gone from a $209 billion defi- president, Betty Lee Ongley; Judith Lee of cit to a $99 billion surplus. And we have done the Older Women’s League; John D’Agistino it with a strategy that focused on cutting the of the Michigan State Council of Senior Citi- deficit, balancing the budget, eliminating un- zens. necessary spending, but continuing to invest I’d also like to thank in her absence your in education and training. For example, Congresswoman, Debbie Stabenow, who was we’ve almost doubled our investment in edu- going to come with me today, but they’re vot- cation and training in the last 6 years while ing on an issue which is very critical to we have cut hundreds of programs and re- whether we can do what I hope to do with duced the size of the Federal Government Medicare. But she has been a wonderful sup- to its smallest point since 1962, when Presi- porter of our efforts to preserve Medicare dent Kennedy was in office. So I think that’s and to add the prescription drug benefit. And very important. And the tax relief which has I know she did a study here in this district been given in the last 6 years is focused on on seniors’ prescription drug options and families and education. cost, and some of you may have been respon- I asked the president of this college when sible for the position she is now taking in I came in, I asked him what the tuition was, Washington. But I am very, very grateful for because now our HOPE scholarship tax credit. And I know Debbie’s mother, Ann Greer, it gives a $1,500-a-year tax credit to virtually is here. So I thank her for coming. all the students in our country. And that And let me say to all of you—and I want makes community college free, or nearly to thank Jane for doing this. You know, I met free, to virtually all the students in commu- her about 3 minutes ago, and I—she’s got to come out here with me and do this pro- nity colleges in our country. It’s an important gram. And I think the odds are she’ll do bet- thing. ter than I will. [Laughter] So I’m not wor- But we’ve worked hard, and the American ried. people have worked hard. Now we have the Let me say, today I want to have this op- longest peacetime expansion in history, with portunity to talk with all of you—we have 19 million new jobs. We have the lowest mi- people of all ages here—about the great na- nority unemployment rates ever recorded. tional debate going on not only in Washing- And we have to ask ourselves, we’ve worked ton but in our country, a debate that we very hard as a country for this; what are we never thought we’d be having. You know, I going to do with it? And I have argued that, came to Lansing first when I was running at a minimum, we ought to meet our biggest Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 22 1455 challenges—the aging of America, the obliga- life expectancy than that. Everybody—it’s tion to keep the economy going, and the obli- fine for the next 35 years, but I’ve offered gation to educate and prepare our children a plan to increase the life of the Social Secu- for the 21st century. rity Trust Fund for at least 54 years and to Today we’re going to talk primarily about go further if the Congress will go with me. the aging of America and Medicare. But I I have offered a plan to increase—when want to emphasize what a challenge that is. I became President, the Medicare Trust The number of people over 65 will double Fund was slated to go broke this year. And between now and the year 2030—will dou- we took some very tough actions in 1993 and ble. The fastest-growing group of people in again in 1997 to lengthen the life of the Trust the United States in percentage terms are Fund—actions which, I might add, most hos- people over 80. Any American today who pitals with significant Medicare caseloads lives to be 65 has a life expectancy of about and teaching hospitals which deal with a lot 82. of poor folks believe went far too far. And Children being born today, when you take we’re going to have to give some money back into account all of the things that can hap- to those hospitals in Michigan and through- pen—illness, accident, crime, everything— out the country. But we now have 15 years have a life expectancy of 77 from birth now. on the life of the Medicare Trust Fund. We expect to unlock the genetic code with Under my proposal, we would take it out to the Human Genome Project in the next 3 2027, and that will give plenty of time for to 4 years, and it then will become normal future Congresses and Presidents to deal for a young mother taking a baby home from with whatever challenges develop in the the hospital to have a genetic map of that Medicare program after that. baby’s body, which will be a predictor of that Now, to do that and to do it without cut- baby’s future health. It will be troubling in ting our commitment to education, to bio- some ways. It will say, well, this young baby medical research, to national defense, we girl has a strong predisposition to breast can- have to devote most of the surplus to Social cer. But it will enable you to get treatment, Security and Medicare. We will still have to follow a diet, to do other things which will funds for a substantial tax cut but not as big minimize those risks; will say, this young boy as the one being offered in Washington is highly likely to have heart disease at an today, which spends all the non-Social Secu- earlier-than-normal time, but it will enable rity tax surplus funds on a tax cut. us to prepare our children from birth to avert I believe the wise thing to do is to take those problems. So this is a very important care of the 21st century challenge of the thing. aging of America, to do it in a way that does The first thing I want to say to all of you not require us to walk away from the edu- and those of you who are in the senior citi- cation of our children; and under my plan, zens’ groups will identify with this—this is because we would save most of the surplus, a high-class problem we have. This is a prob- the side benefit we’d get is that in 15 years lem, the aging of America, that is a high- we could actually take the United States of class problem. It means we’re living longer America out of debt for the first time since and better. I wish all of our problems were 1835. like this. It has such—a sort of a happy aspect Now, why is that important—and it’s more to them. important, I would argue, than at any time But it does mean that there will be new in my lifetime. I was raised to believe that challenges for our country, and it means, a certain amount of debt for a country was among other things, that we’ll have, percent- healthy; that just like businesses are always age-wise, relatively fewer people working and borrowing money to invest in new business, more people drawing Social Security and a certain amount of debt was healthy. The Medicare. structural deficit has been terrible. The idea When you look at the Social Security sys- that we quadrupled the debt in 12 years was tem, it’s slated to run out of money in about an awful idea, because we were borrowing 34, 35 years. It ought to have a much longer money just to pay the bills. 1456 July 22 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

But I’d like to ask you all to think about happens, under the way that the Republicans this, because I don’t think most Americans and the Democrats have agreed on so far, have focused on this part of the plan, the we will pay down the debt—we will continue idea of being debt-free. We live in a global to pay down the debt, but we won’t pay it economy. Money can travel across national off. And we won’t extend the life of the Social borders literally at the speed of light. We just Security Trust Fund, as I would under my move it around in accounts. Interest rates are plan. But still, that’s something. set, therefore, in a global context. If we be- There is yet no agreement in Washington come debt-free and we, therefore, don’t bor- over setting aside a significant portion of the row any money in America just to fund the surplus to save and modernize Medicare. So Government, that means everybody else’s in- today we’re here to talk about that. But I terest rates will be lower. That means for wanted you to have a feeling for how the businesses, lower business borrowing rates; Medicare proposal fits into the proposal to it means more businesses, more jobs, easier save Social Security, to keep investing in edu- to raise wages. For families it means lower cation, to have a modest tax cut, and to make home mortgage rates, lower credit card pay- the country debt free. I want you to think ment rates, lower car payment rates, lower about it, because the big debate is, what are college loan rates. we going to do with the surplus? It means that we will secure the economic And I don’t even agree with the timing strength of America in ways that are unimagi- of what’s going on in Washington. I don’t nable to us now. It means that if other parts think we should even be talking about the of the world get in trouble, the way Asia did tax cut until we figure out what it costs to a couple of years ago, we’ll be less vulnerable. save Social Security, what it costs to save and And the people that are in trouble and need modernize Medicare, what we have to do to to borrow money will be able to get it at keep the Government going. lower interest rates, and they’ll get up and How would you feel—now, one of my staff go on again and be able to do business with members, who happens to be from Michigan, us again. said to me the other day, this is kind of like This is a very good thing to do. But it can a family sitting around the kitchen table and only be done if we set aside the vast majority said, ‘‘Let’s plan the fancy vacation of our of the surplus to fix Social Security and Medi- dreams and then talk about how we’re going care. You can still have a tax cut, focused to make the mortgage payment.’’ [Laughter] on helping families save for their retirement ‘‘Hope we’ve got enough left over.’’ So that’s or any number of the other things that have where we are. been discussed within the range we can af- To evaluate whether you agree or not, we ford; focused on helping people pay for long- need to talk about what needs to be done term care; focused on helping working fami- about Medicare. So I’d like to tell you what lies pay for child care; and, I would hope, I think, the first thing my plan would do is focused on helping us modernize our schools to devote a little over a third of the non- for the 21st century and giving business- Social Security portion of the surplus, $374 people big incentives to invest in the small billion over the next 10 years, to strengthen towns, rural areas, urban neighborhoods, and Medicare by extending the life of the Trust Indian reservations that still haven’t gotten Fund to 2027. Now, I think that is very, very any new business investment in this recovery important, because, keep in mind, all the of ours. baby boomers will start turning 65 in the year But the fundamental decision is, are we 2011. That’s not that far away. To young peo- going to do these things? Now, there does ple, that may seem like a long way away. The seem to be agreement in Washington—let’s older you get, that seems like the day after start with the good news—there does seem tomorrow. [Laughter] to be an agreement in Washington that we And we’ve waited a long time. The last should set aside the portion of the surplus time we had a surplus was 1969. This is a produced by your Social Security tax pay- once-in-a-lifetime opportunity we have here ments for Social Security. And if that, in fact, to deal with this. So if we run it out to 2027 Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 22 1457 and then further complications arise, or dif- now and keep people out of the hospital and ficulties or challenges present themselves, the expensive payments we’re going to pay there will be time for future Congresses and if we don’t do that. Very important issue. Presidents to deal with them without having And then we provide, for the first time, to take drastic action. So that’s the first for a voluntary and affordable prescription thing—run the Trust Fund out to 2027. drug benefit. Basically, we propose to start No serious expert on Medicare believes with a $24 a month premium to pay half the that we can stabilize Medicare without an in- drug cost, up to $2,000, phasing up over the fusion of new revenues. The second thing we next 5 or 6 years to a $5,000 ceiling, with do is to employ some of the best practices the premium going up that way, in a grad- in health care today: competition and other uated way. For seniors at 135 percent of pov- practices now in the private sector to keep erty or less, we would waive the premium costs down that don’t sacrifice quality and and the copay, and then the premium would don’t require people to be forced out of the be phased in, up to 150 percent of poverty. fee-for-service Medicare plan if they don’t So there would be subsidies there. want to be into a managed care plan. We Now, there are those who say, ‘‘Well, this leave free choice open. No requirement. is good, but I’ve got a good retiree health The third thing about this plan that’s got- plan with prescription drugs, and if you offer ten the least publicity but is potentially very this, my employer will drop it and it’s better important for our country is that we allow than this deal.’’ Well, I want you to know people between the ages of 55 and 65 who that one of the things we’ve done in here aren’t working anymore or don’t have health is put substantial subsidies in here to employ- insurance on the job and don’t have retiree ers who offer drug benefits to their retirees. health insurance to buy into Medicare in a So I think it is less likely that they will drop way that doesn’t compromise the stability of the benefits, not more—because they’re the program. I think that is terribly impor- going to get a real incentive to keep the em- tant. That’s a huge problem in our country ployer-based retiree programs. The second today and a growing one, people who are out thing I want to say, again, is this is an entirely of the work force or working for very small voluntary program. businesses without employer-sponsored care, Now, the other big criticism of this pro- who can’t get any health insurance because gram has been that, well, they say, two-thirds of their age or their previous health condi- of the people have prescription drugs already tion. who are retired. That is misleading. That is The fourth thing the plan does is to mod- only accurate by a stretch, and let me explain ernize the benefits of Medicare to match the what I mean by that. We have a report we advances of modern medicine. That means are releasing today that shows that 75 per- first encouraging seniors and disabled Medi- cent of older Americans lack decent and de- care beneficiaries to take greater advantage pendable private sector coverage for pre- of the available prevention mechanisms in scription drugs. And the problem is getting our country, preventive tests for cancer, for worse. osteoporosis, for other conditions, by elimi- Fewer than one in four retirees, 24 per- nating the deductible and the copay from cent, have drug coverage from their former those tests and paying for it by charging a employers. Now, the number of corporations modest copay for lab tests that are often over- offering prescription drug benefits to retired used. employees has dropped by a quarter, 25 per- Now, why is this important? Well, if some- cent, just since 1994. Eight percent of the body develops osteoporosis, a severe case, seniors have Medigap drug policies. But as and goes to the hospital and has a prolonged all of you know, Medigap premiums explode medical regime under Medicare, the tax- as people get older, when they most need payers pay for all of it. But very often, the the benefits and can least afford the higher prevention is not done because of the costs prices. involved. It’ll be far less expensive over the Here in Michigan, for example, seniors long run to spend a little more on prevention over 85 must pay over $1,100 a year in 1458 July 22 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Medigap premiums for drug coverage, not to think about that. The baby boomers will counting the $250 deductible. Those high be retiring in the second decade—in the sec- costs are especially hard on women, who tend ond decade of the century we’re about to to have lower incomes than men because begin. And we have to think about that. This they didn’t have as many years paying into plan would give us no money to stabilize or Social Security or retirement primarily. Sev- modernize Medicare, and it would require enty-two percent of the Americans over 85 substantial cuts in education, in national de- are women. Seventeen percent of seniors fense, in biomedical research, in the environ- have drug benefits through Medicare man- ment. And I predict to you that the environ- aged care plans. But three-fifths of these ment will be a bigger and bigger issue for plans cap the benefits at less than $1,000 a us all to come to grips with in the years year. ahead. And listen to this, in just the last 2 years, So we have to figure out what we’re going the percentage that capped drug benefits at to do. I believe that this plan that’s being only $500 per year has grown by 50 percent. voted on in Washington will not enable us Anybody that’s got any kind of medical condi- to pay off our debt; it will not do anything tion at all will tell you it doesn’t take very to add to the life of Social Security and Medi- long to run through $500. care; it will require huge cuts in our other So what does this mean? It means that the investments and taking care of our kids. And vast majority of our seniors either have no I will veto it if it passes. drug coverage at all or coverage that is unsta- But the question is what are we going to ble, unaffordable, and rapidly disappearing. do. You all know that we fight all the time It means, therefore, that we need a drug plan in Washington because that’s what you hear for our seniors that is simple, that is vol- about. But I would like to reiterate that we untary, that is available to all, and that is com- joined together to pass welfare reform—and pletely dependable. I did, I vetoed two bills first because they Securing and modernizing Medicare I be- took away the guarantee of food and medi- lieve is the right thing to do for our seniors, cine for the poor kids. But I passed the wel- but I also think it’s the right thing to do for fare reform bill that required able-bodied all the young people here. And for the next people to go to work and provided extra help generation, the young parents in their thirties for child care, for transportation, for training and forties. Why? First, because it guaran- and education for people on welfare. We now tees we can get out of debt by 2015—I ex- have the lowest welfare rolls in 30 years— plained why that’s a good idea. Second, be- the lowest welfare rolls in 30 years. cause if we do this and we stabilize Social And big majorities of both parties in both Security and Medicare, we will ease the bur- Houses of Congress voted for it. We fought den on the children of the baby boom gen- over the budget for 2 years, but in ’97 we eration who will be raising our grandchildren. passed a bipartisan balanced budget amend- It is a way of guaranteeing the stability of ment, with big majorities in both parties of the incomes of the children of the seniors both Houses voting for it. And the results on Medicare. And I think that is profoundly have been quite good. important. So don’t be discouraged. You just have to Now, I’ve already explained that that’s send a clear message. We are capable of what our budget does. Today the Congress working together to do big things. Yesterday is voting, the House of Representatives is vot- 50 economists, including 6 Nobel Prize win- ing on the Republican tax plan, which basi- ners, released a letter supporting my ap- cally would spend virtually the entire non- proach. Maybe it’s easier for me because I’m Social Security surplus on a tax cut. And it not running for election, but I don’t think costs a huge amount of money, not just in that’s right. I trust the American people to this 10 years but it triples in cost in the next support those people in public life who think 10 years. It explodes. of the long run, who tell them the truth, who And you say, ‘‘I don’t want to think about say, I realize it would be popular to spend that. I want to think about today.’’ You have this surplus, but we’ve waited 30 years for Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 22 1459 it and we now have 30 years’ worth of chal- who questioned whether Social Security lenges out there facing us and we cannot af- would exist when she became eligible.] ford to squander that. The President. The answer to that is, So what I hope to do today is to answer there certainly should be. There’s no reason your questions and hear your stories, and let’s explore whether or not we really need to do for us to let the Trust Fund run out in 2034. these things for Medicare and whether or not What I have proposed to do, just so you’ll they really will help not only the seniors but know, is—what I propose to do is to allow the non-seniors in the country. And if you the Social Security taxes that you pay, which disagree, you ought to say that, too. But my presently have been covering our deficit concern now is for what America will be like since 1983—as big as these deficits have in 10 years, or 20 years, or 30 years. been, they’d have been even bigger if it We’ve got the country fixed now; it’s work- hadn’t been for Social Security taxes. You ing fine; everybody is going to be all right need to know that, because when we put the now in the near term. The economy is work- last Social Security reform in, in 1983, we ing; things are stable; we’re moving in the did it knowing that we would be collecting right direction. But we now have a once in more. I wasn’t around then, but they did it a generation opportunity to take care of our knowing they would be collecting more than long-term challenges, and I believe we ought they needed, and the idea was to have the to do it. money there when the baby boomers retired, Thank you very much. as well as to relieve the immediate financial crisis. [At this point, the conversation proceeded. Now, if you do that, you can pay down Participant Janice Southwell asked the Presi- the debt some. But in order to lengthen the dent how much time his Medicare plan would life of the Trust Fund, what I have proposed need to take effect.] to do is, as the debt goes down, the interest we pay on the debt goes down. Obviously, The President. Well, it will take us—it you know, if you’ve got smaller debt, you takes a couple of years—first of all, we can have smaller interest payments. Well, you stabilize the plan immediately. If Congress should know that for most of the last 10 passed the law and I sign it, we’ll have the years, about 15 cents on every dollar you pay funds dedicated, and we can set the frame- in taxes comes right off the top to pay interest work in motion today that would do all the on the debt. big things. So what I want to do, as the debt goes To put the prescription drug benefit in ef- down, I want to take the difference in what fect, it’s a complicated thing, as you might we used to pay and what we’ve been paying imagine, millions and millions of people in- and put that into the Social Security Trust volved—it will take probably a year, maybe Fund to run the life of the Trust Fund out a little longer, 2 years, to actually start it. to 2053. And I’ve made some other proposals But where we propose to start would be and will make some more because I’d like with a premium of $22 a month and a co- to see us take it all the way out to 2075. That pay of 50 percent up to $2,000, but it would would be, in the ideal world, we’d have 75 go up to $5,000. And I think it’s very impor- years in the Social Security Trust Fund. tant to get up to a higher level. But we have That’s what I’d like to see, and I’m working to learn to administer it and make sure we’ve on it. But if you get over 50 years, we’ll be got the cost estimates right and all of that. in pretty good shape, and I’m hoping we’ll So it would be fully in effect at $5,000 about do that. 5 years after we start. [The conversation continued.] [The conversation continued. Moderator Jane Aldrich asked Ms. Southwell her concerns The President. You might be interested about her own senior years. Ms. Southwell to know that the drug companies, a lot of replied she is thinking about it and described them are worried about it, and they’ve come a conversation with her daughter-in-law, out opposed to my plan, even though there’s 1460 July 22 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 no price control in my plan. But if we rep- The President. You are subsidizing the resent you and millions of other people like pharmaceuticals made in America, sold in you, we’ll have a lot of market power, we’ll virtually every other country in the world, be- be able to bargain for better prices. And I cause they’re made here and you’re paying think that’s a good thing, not a bad thing. higher prices for them than people in other The other thing you should know is— places. maybe most of you do know this—I didn’t As I said, I understand their argument. know this until a few years ago and my They say, ‘‘Well, why shouldn’t we go in former Senator, David Pryor, who is very in- there and sell if we can make some money, terested in seniors and drug prices told me but we have to recover our drug develop- this, and then when I became President and ment costs.’’ I’m sympathetic to a point, but began to manage the budget, I confirmed not to the point that people like you can’t it—Americans sometimes pay many times have a decent living. So I think this will be higher prices for drugs than Europeans, for a good compromise, and I hope the pharma- example, pay for the same drugs. So our com- ceutical companies will reconsider their op- panies are only too happy to sell in the Euro- position. It would be a good thing, not a bad thing, if we had the market power of large- pean market at cost because—much lower bulk purchasers to hold these prices down cost—and they make money doing it because to you. they recover all the cost of developing new drugs from Americans. And then the Euro- [The conversation continued.] peans put actual price controls on them, and they sell anyway. The President. You can actually figure out Now, I honor the research and develop- pretty much what this plan would do for you. If you have, let’s say, $2,000 a year in drug ment of new drugs by our pharmaceutical costs—let’s take the first year the plan goes companies. The Government spends billions in—let’s say you’ve got $2,000 a year in drug of dollars every year supporting such re- costs and let’s say your income is over 150 search, and we should. If America is on the percent of the Federal poverty level—150 cutting edge, maybe it’s worth a premium percent of the Federal poverty level is for it. But I also believe that elderly people $17,000 a couple for seniors—then, you on fixed incomes should not be bankrupt for would pay $1,000 for the drugs and $24 a doing it. month for the premium, which is $288 a year, That’s what this—so what I’m trying to do which is $1,288, so you’d save $712 a year. is to strike the right balance here. I want to Now, if your income is under 135 percent hold down future increases as much as we of the Federal poverty level, which is $15,000 can, not by price controls, but by using the a couple, you would save $2,000 a year be- market power of the Government. And we’ll cause you wouldn’t have to pay the co-pay have to be reasonable because we’re not or the monthly premium. We’ve tried to take going to put those companies out of business care of the really—the kind of people you’re and we’re not going to stop them from doing talking about at your complex who don’t have research because we’d be cutting off our nose enough to live on. I wish I knew the numbers to spite our face. We wouldn’t do that. But for seniors living alone. I just don’t have it we would be able to give people like you in my head; I should, but maybe somebody some protection, as well as the guarantee of will slip it to me before I end. coverage. And I think it will be a good thing. If somebody, one of the people here with me, if you’ll slip me the numbers for what [Participant Jack Witt said his sister-in-law the 135 and the 150 percent of the poverty bought prescription drugs in Mexico because level is for single seniors, I’ll tell you what they cost less than in the U.S. He said he’d that is, but you can figure it that way. heard of the same possibility in Canada. He suggested the U.S. Government should pur- [The conversation continued. Heather Fretell, chase the drugs and provide them to seniors a pharmacist, said meaningful pharmacy at a fraction of the cost.] services that ensure proper use of medication Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 22 1461 should be provided for seniors, because pre- That’s the other reason I’m for all these prevention of illness would bring down the cost ventive tests being provided for free, because of treatment. Ms. Aldrich asked if the Presi- we don’t pay for the preventive tests, but dent was hearing that around the country.] when you don’t get them and you go to the The President. A lot. And let me just say hospital, we do pay for that. to all of you, this fine young woman is rep- So I think any thing we can do to make resentative of where the pharmacists of our people healthier and keep them out of the country are. I want to—I said that I regretted hospital and keep them out of more extensive the fact that the drug manufacturers were and expensive care is a plus. So thank you opposing our program because they’re afraid very much. it will hold costs down too much. The phar- [Ms. Aldrich noted that advances in preven- macists who see the real live evidence of this tive medicines since 1965 have been substan- problem have been, I think, the most vocifer- tial and have altered how treatment is ap- ous supporters of this whole initiative of any plied.] group not directly involved in getting the benefits, and I can’t thank you enough. The President. It’s amazing. The average Thank you. life expectancy in this country is almost 77 But wait, let me say one other thing. She years now. I mean, that shows you how far made another point that I didn’t make in my we’ve come in just 34 years. remarks that I would like to make to you. [The conversation continued.] She said, you know, say it was your grand- mother or something, if she doesn’t take this The President. First, let me say that we medication she’ll have to go to the hospital. have made a dramatic increase in medical Now, suppose there were no Medicare research one of the priorities for the last 2 program. Suppose President Johnson hadn’t years for the millennium. We’re trying to created Medicare 34 years ago and we were double funding for the National Cancer In- starting out today. Does anybody here even stitute and eventually double funding for all question that if we were creating Medicare the National Institutes of Health. today, prescription drugs would be a part of And Vice President Gore gave a speech it? If we were starting all over again? Thirty- in Philadelphia about 10 days or so ago now, four years ago we didn’t have anything like where all the major associations involved in the range of medicines we have today that the fight against cancer came to talk about could do anything like the amount of good long-term plans that would really give us a and do anything like the amount of prolong- chance of finding cures for many, many types ing our lives, our quality of life, keeping us of cancer. I think it will be a big national out of the hospital. priority in the years ahead. And he gave, I And here’s the bizarre thing about this, if thought, a very good speech about what we manage this program right over the long should be done to take advantage of what run, it’s going to be a cost saver because we’ll we already know is out there on the horizon, be—if you’ve got $2,000 in drug costs, that’s just by accelerating our investments and a lot—that’s what her costs are—that $2,000; making sure we’re doing the proper testing how long does it take you to run up $2,000 in the proper range of our population. in hospital bills? A lot less than a year. A I’m quite encouraged about it. I think a lot less than a week. lot of the big breakthroughs will come after So I think that’s another point that ought I leave office. But I hope that the ground- to be made when this debate is unfolding, work we’ve laid now, will bring them sooner. that, yes, this will be—it’s a new program, And I think one of the things that I hope so it will cost money. But eventually, particu- will be a big part of the debate for all of larly if Heather is right and we can make you for all the elective offices when we come sure a higher percentage of our people use up in the year 2000—I say this not in a par- these drugs properly, you will save billions tisan way, because, actually, we’ve had very of dollars in avoided hospital stays, which we good Republican as well as Democrat sup- pay for. That’s the irony of this whole thing. port for the National Institutes of Health 1462 July 22 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 funding—but I think this should be a major money; don’t let them’’—i.e., us—‘‘don’t let issue and a subject of debate that all of us them spend it on their friends.’’ Well, we’re should talk about as Americans: What is our spending it on Medicare, Social Security, and commitment over the long run to doing this education and defense. That’s us, that’s all kind of research and getting the answers as of us, that’s not our friends. quickly as we can? I mean, I hope you’re my friends, but Thank you. that’s—and I think what you have to say is [The conversation continued.] that the country has become prosperous by looking to the future, by getting the deficit The President. Let me say—you heard down, by getting our house in order, by get- what Mrs. Silk said about Medicare—I think ting this budget balanced, by investing in our we’re mostly talking about this prescription people. And now, we have these big chal- drug issue today. But don’t forget, as impor- lenges. tant as it is, the most important thing that If this debate in Washington is about, you we’re doing is securing Medicare for 27 know, ‘‘my tax cut’s bigger than your tax cut,’’ years. We’ve got to get—the basic program well, that’s a pretty hard debate to win, you has to be secure, because that would literally, know? But if the debate is, ‘‘yes, our tax cut as many people as are terrifically burdened is more modest, although it’s quite substan- by this prescription drug benefit, if anything tial, but the reason is we think since we’ve happens to the solvency of Medicare, or we got this big aging crisis looming and since have to adopt some draconian changes that we’ve never dealt with the prescription drug raise the cost of the program so much that issue, that we ought to stabilize Social Secu- it’s as out of reach as the drugs are now for rity and Medicare, save enough money to do people, the consequences would be disas- our work in education and medical research trous. So let’s not forget we have two things and the environment and defense, and still to do. We’ve got to stabilize and modernize have a modest tax cut,’’ I think we can win and secure the Medicare program itself for that argument, and I think—you know, you the next 27 years as well as add this drug really just need to let people know. I don’t benefit. think this should be a hostile debate at all. And you made that point very eloquently, I think you need to genuinely, in a very open and I thank you. and straightforward way, tell all your Rep- [Participant Dorothy Silk asked the President resentatives and Senators of all parties that what citizens could do to help him persuade you believe now is the time to look to the the Congress to accept his plan.] long run. If America were in economic trouble now, The President. I think tell the Congress if people were unemployed, if they were hav- that the country’s doing well now and that, ing terrible trouble, maybe we should have yes, you would like to have a tax cut, but a big tax cut to help people get out of the you will settle for a smaller one rather than tights they’re in. But now that the country a bigger one if the money goes to save Medi- is generally doing well, we ought to take the care and Social Security and keep up our in- money and make sure we don’t get in a tight vestment in the education of our children in the future. If you can just say that in a and pay the debt off. I think that’s a simple nice way, I think—I’m trying to keep the message. temperature down on this debate and get Let me just say this. You know, Americans people to think. I want to shed more light are a country—we are famously skeptical than heat. Usually, our political debates in about the Government, you know. All those Washington shed more heat than light. And jokes, ‘‘I’m from the Government; I’m here you can help a lot. Just be straightforward, to help you,’’ and you slam the door and the and tell people that’s what you think. guy says—and I heard the debate last night in the House of Representatives, and the [Ms. Aldrich suggested people write letters people that are for giving the surplus back and send E-mail to their representatives in to you in the tax cut will—they say, ‘‘It’s your Congress.] Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 22 1463

The President. Write them a letter; send have to get the point where they can’t kill them an E-mail; send them a fax. Do some- it. I think the pharmacists will help us, and thing to—and say, I’m just a citizen, but I I think if we keep working, we’ll wind up want you to know that I will support you if getting some pharmaceutical executives who you save most of the surplus to fix Social Se- will eventually come out for it, too, once they curity and Medicare and make America debt- understand that nobody has a vested interest free. I will take the smaller tax cut, and I in driving them out of business. We all want don’t want you to have to cut education or them to do well and keep putting money into national defense or medical research or any research and the increased volume—if the of those other things. Let’s do this in a dis- past is any experience of every other change, ciplined way, in a commonsense way. I think the increased volume of medicine going to you just tell them that that’s what you want seniors who need it will more than offset the them to do, and don’t make it a partisan slightly reduced profit margins from having issue, don’t make it a—I don’t want Ameri- more reasonable prices. cans to get angry over this. Thank you very much. Like I said, this is a high-class problem. The conversation continued. Participant You would have laughed me out of this room [ Loren Graham said his 44-year-old daughter, if I had come here 7 years ago and said, ‘‘Vote who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, for me. I’ll come back, and we’ll have a de- should be able to buy into Medicare because bate on what to do with the surplus.’’ So let’s she is refused insurance. be grown up about this and deal with it as ] good citizens. The President. But she’s not designated disabled? The conversation continued. [ ] Mr. Graham. I beg your pardon? The President. Yes, I thank you for that. The President. Medicare covers certain— I agree with that. Let me say, if you think the disability population—she’s not disabled about it, every time we do a big change in enough to cover, to qualify? this country, the people that are doing pretty Mr. Graham. Correct. well under the status quo normally oppose The President. I don’t know if I can solve it. And in the 15th century, the great Italian that or not. I’ll have to think about it. [Laugh- statesman Machiavelli said there is nothing ter] so difficult in all of human affairs than to Ms. Aldrich. But you obviously have other change the established order of things, be- people that you know that are dealing with cause the people who will benefit are uncer- the same type of issue that you are right now, tain of their gain, and the people who will is that correct? lose are afraid of their loss. Mr. Graham said he knew a lot of people Well, I don’t think they will necessarily [ in the same situation that have supplemental lose. Once they go back to what this gen- insurance but no guarantee they will keep tleman said over here about it, and let’s put it. what he said and what you said together, the ] profit margins may go down some on heavily- The President. Let me say one thing. You used drugs where we have the power to bar- said you wanted Medicare to be around an- gain per drug, but the volume will surely go other 32 years. Another point I should have up. That’s the point you’re trying to make. made that I didn’t about taking the Trust Look, none of us have an interest in put- Fund out 27 years, you think how much ting the American pharmaceutical companies health care has changed in the last 27 years. out of business. They’re the best in the world, The likelihood is it will change even more and they’re discovering all these new drugs in the next 27 than it has changed in the that keep us alive longer. And I wouldn’t— last 27. And we may be caring for ourselves we’ll never be in a position where we’re going at home for things that we now think of as to try to do that. But I’ve seen this time after terminal hospital stays. They may become time after time—not just in health care, in normal things where you give yourself medi- lots of other areas. It will be fine if we just cation, you give yourself your own shots, you 1464 July 22 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 do all the stuff that we now think of that subsidies to the employers who do this to would be unimaginable. encourage them to keep on doing it and to I think if we can get it out that far, the encourage other employers to do it. So I whole way health care is delivered will think it’s a well-balanced program and a good change so dramatically that the people who way to start. come along after me and the Congress and The conversation continued. Dr. Kirshna in the White House will have opportunities [ Sawhney, a cardiologist, stated his support to structure this in a different way that will for the President’s prescription medicine pro- be even more satisfying to the people as well posal and also pointed out the need for re- as being better for their health. form of the Medicare payment system to hos- But that’s why, to go back to what you said, pitals. He said premier health care facilities I want us to do this prescription drug thing. in Michigan are losing $80 million to $100 I think it is critically important. But we also million each year under the current system. have to remember that we’ve got to stabilize ] the Trust Fund. We’ve got to take it out. It The President. I’d like to make two points ought to be more than 25 years. When you after your very fine statement. First, on the look ahead, you know it’s going to be there. second point you raised, I had a chance to Thank you. discuss that yesterday at my press conference. When we passed the Balanced The conversation continued. [ ] Budget Bill in 1997, the—we had to say, how The President. Well, if it was up to me, much are we going to spend on Medicare I would remove the age limits, the earnings over the next 5 years. And we estimated what limits on Social Security recipients, because it would take to meet our budget target. I think that’s another good thing they ought Then, the Congressional Budget Office said, to do. But it ought to be voluntary; you no, it will take deeper cuts than that, and shouldn’t have to do it just to pay for your we said if you do that it will cost a lot more medicine. money. But we had to do it the way they I promised the lady over there who said wanted. most of the people who lived in your place Now, this is not a partisan attack; nobody were single. Now, keep in mind, we start out did this on purpose. There was an honest with the premium of $24 a month, and that disagreement here. But it turned out that our premium covers half the prescription drug people were right, and so actually more costs, up to $2,000 a year. It will go eventu- money was taken out of the hospital system ally to a premium of about $44 a month that in America than was intended to take out. will cover half prescription drug costs up to And to that extent by a few billion dollars, $5,000 a year. And I think it’s important to not an enormous amount, but the surplus in get up above $2,000, because a lot of people that sense is bigger than it was intended to really do have big-time drug costs. be. And we have got to correct that. I have Now, the people who wouldn’t have to pay offered a plan that will at least partially take the premium or the co-pay are people below care of it, and we’re now in intense meetings 135 percent of poverty. That’s $14,000 for with people who are concerned about it; we a couple, but $11,000 for individuals. That’s are going to have to do that. a lot of folks. And then, if you’re up to Now, let me make the point about the per- $12,750 for an individual or $17,000 for a son you said, the gentleman who died. I was couple, your costs would be phased in, so aghast—last week we had another health there would be some benefit there. care debate on the patients’ Bill of Rights, But nearly everybody would be better off and one of the people who was against our unless they have a good—the only plans that position said, these people keep using sto- are better than this, by and large, are those ries—you know, anybody can tell a story, that you got from your employer if your em- that’s not necessarily representative. ployer still covers prescription drugs. This is Well, first of all, I don’t know about you, totally voluntary. Nobody has to do this. And but I think people’s stories are—I mean, we also have funds in here to give significant that’s what life is all about. What is life but Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 22 1465 your story? [Applause] And, secondly, I—but decade or more. More really, as long as we the point I want to make is this doctor— don’t mess up the budget. the most important point this doctor has We have to decide. I already said what to made is that the man who died is not an un- me the choice is—it is your money. If you usual case. That is the point I want to make. want it back now, you can tell your elected And that’s—the pharmacist, Heather, was representatives. Nobody can say you didn’t making the same point—there are lots of pay it in; you want it back. I don’t quarrel people like this. with that. But I think it is much better for And let me just use the example you men- you to stabilize Social Security and Medicare, tioned. Diabetes is one of the most important add the prescription drug benefit at a price examples of this. Complications from diabe- we can afford, let people 55 to 65 pay into tes can be, as you know, dire and can be it who don’t have health insurance, have a fatal. And you have a very large number of modest tax cut that doesn’t undermine our older people with adult-onset diabetes that ability to do that or our ability to invest in have to be managed. It is expensive, but peo- education and medical research and defense, ple can have normal lives. and get the country debt-free. The patients have to do a lot of the man- You’d be amazed how many really wealthy agement of diabetes. They have to do it. And businessmen come up to me and say, ‘‘You if they don’t do their medication, the odds raised my taxes to balance the budget back that something really terrible will happen be- in ’93’’—we did the top 1 percent, 1.5 per- fore very long are very, very high. Almost cent got an income tax increase—‘‘and I was 100 percent. mad at the time, but I made so much more But if you look at the sheer numbers of money in the stock market than I paid in people with diabetes alone, just take diabe- taxes, it’s not funny.’’ tes, then the story is about statistics, too, big Low interest rates make people money. numbers of people. The flipside of that is if interest rates went I thank you very much, sir. up 1 percent in this country, it would cost She says we’ve got to quit. You’ve been you more money than I can give you in a great. Are you going to be the heavy? I tax cut if you borrow any money for anything. should be the heavy. So what I think we have to say—I just want Ms. Aldrich. No, they told me I had to you to think about this and then commu- tell you to be quiet. I said, really? [Laughter] nicate your feelings. And again, do it in a I bet there are some Republicans that might friendly way. Do it in the tone we’ve been like that job. talking about today. Tell them the stories you The President. Republicans—Hillary know, Doctor. Every doctor, every nurse, would like it. A lot of people would like it. every pharmacist, every family should sit [Laughter] down and take the time—I know you think Ms. Aldrich. We are, indeed, out of time. that Members of Congress, and the White So sorry, but they’re telling me, and I have House, the President—I have a thousand vol- to take my cues. But Mr. President, we want unteers at the White House, most of them to thank you so much for being here. And just read mail. And then I get a representa- did you have some closing remarks that you’d tive sample of that mail every 2 or 3 weeks. like to make to us? And we all calibrate that. And the Members The President. I just wanted to say again, of Congress, you’d be amazed how many this is a wonderful moment. We told some Members of Congress actually read letters said, heartwrenching stories today, and I wish that they get. They do have an impact. I could hear from all of you. But keep in So these faxes and E-mails and letters and mind, this is a great thing. Our country is telephone calls, they register on people, es- so blessed now. We’ve got the lowest peace- pecially if they’re not done in a kind of harsh, time unemployment in 40 years, the longest political way, but just saying, this is what I peacetime economic expansion in history. think is right for our country. And I hope We’ve got this big surplus, the biggest one you’ll do it. we’ve ever had. We think it will last for a Thank you, and God bless you. 1466 July 22 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

NOTE: The President spoke at 11:45 a.m. in the the debt off—if you agree with that, I hope gymnasium at Lansing Community College. In his you will communicate that to the Members remarks, he referred to Mayor David C. Hollister of the Senate and Congress from Michigan. of Lansing; James F. Anderton IV, president, Lan- Write them a letter, send them an E-mail, sing Community College; Judith Lee, assistant ex- send them a fax, do something. It will make ecutive director, Older Women’s League; and John D’Agistino, president, Michigan State Coun- a difference. cil of Senior Citizens. I really hope that we can conduct this discussion and bring it to a successful conclusion. I don’t think that we need to have a Remarks to the Overflow Crowd at 2-year-long protracted political battle over Lansing Community College this. I think this is a relatively easy decision July 22, 1999 to make if the Congress can be convinced that that’s where the American people are. Thank you for coming today. I wish we’d And I believe people of all ages think that had room for everybody at the other place, now we have this moment which is once in but you are much cooler than we were. a lifetime, maybe once in a generation oppor- [Laughter] And I hope you enjoyed the tunity, and we ought to take it and go with event, even long distance. it. I was very impressed with the people who So I thank you for coming, and I’m going spoke, and I think it will be very effective to start down here and go over here and in trying to make the point we’re trying to shake hands with anybody who wants to make. And I’m not going to make another come by and say hello. speech, but I’m curious—how many students Thank you. are here? [Applause] One of the things that I’m proudest of that we’ve accomplished in NOTE: The President spoke at 1:50 p.m. in the this Congress is, after the Balanced Budget Dart Auditorium. A tape was not available for ver- Act, we’ve passed this HOPE scholarship ification of the content of these remarks. which gives a $1,500 tax credit for—and I hope you’re all using it. The only other point I want to hammer home that I made today is, it is very impor- Statement on House Action tant when we debate how much should go on a Republican Tax Plan to a tax cut—should we save Social Security July 22, 1999 and Medicare; should we pay off the debt; that we not adopt a budget—as some are up Last night the Republicans went behind there saying. They’re saying, ‘‘Okay, well, closed doors, not to strengthen Medicare and we’ll do it your way on Social Security and Social Security, but to provide political cover Medicare, but give us a bigger tax cut,’’ which for their exploding tax cut. Today the Repub- would mean we’d actually have to cut Fed- licans charged ahead and passed a plan that eral support for education, which I think threatens our ability to pay off the debt and would be a terrible mistake, because if, for strengthen Social Security and Medicare. no other reason, the financing of higher edu- The plain fact is that their tax plan is de- cation—it’s absolutely critical. signed to explode to a $3 trillion cost at the But there are a lot of important things very time that Medicare and Social Security we’re doing in our elementary and secondary come under strain. It would also force deep schools, too, to try to lower class sizes and and devastating cuts in a broad range of do- put more teachers out there and do things mestic programs, including education, the like that. So I hope all of you will also re- environment, and law enforcement. If the spond to what I asked the audience over Republicans send me a plan that undermines there, which is, if you agree with the position our ability to reform Social Security and we’re taking—save Social Security and Medi- Medicare and abandons the fiscal discipline care, invest in education and defense and the that has helped to fuel our economic growth, environment, have a modest tax cut, and pay I will send it straight back with a veto. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / July 23 1467

Statement on Senate Action 12823 and 13028, is further amended as fol- on Hate Crimes Legislation lows: July 22, 1999 (a) The Title is amended by adding at the end thereof ‘‘and the Tropical Forest I am gratified that the Senate has unani- Conservation Act of 1998’’. mously passed the strong legislation I pro- (b) The Preamble is amended: posed to combat hate crimes. (1) by striking the comma (‘‘,’’) after All Americans deserve protection from Public Law 101–624, and inserting in- hate crimes, and that requires us to stand stead ‘‘and’’; and together against intolerance, prejudice, and (2) by inserting ‘‘and Public Law 105– bigotry. The ‘‘Hate Crimes Prevention Act’’ 214’’ after ‘‘Public Law 102–549’’. gives power to those values and will help (c) Section 1 is amended: make our country more safe and secure. (1) by striking ‘‘and’’ after ‘‘sections Senate approval of this legislation gives it 703’’, and inserting instead a comma real momentum, and I call on the House of (‘‘,’’); Representatives to meet its responsibility in (2) by inserting ‘‘, 805(b), 806(a), combating violence that is fueled by hate. We 807(a), 808(a)(1)(A), 808(a)(2), 812 have some distance to go before the ‘‘Hate and 813’’ after ‘‘704’’; Crimes Prevention Act’’ is the law of the (3) by inserting ‘‘and the correspond- land, but tonight’s action by the Senate is ing determinations required by sec- a big step forward in the journey toward tion 805(b) of the FAA,’’ after ‘‘FAA’’ greater protection for all Americans. the second time it appears; and (4) by inserting ‘‘sections 808(a)(1)(B) Executive Order 13131—Further and (C), and 808(a)(4) of the FAA, Amendments to Executive Order and by’’ after ‘‘The functions vested in the President by’’ the second time 12757, Implementation of the it appears. Enterprise for the Americas Initiative (d) Section 3(b) is amended: (1) by buy striking ‘‘also’’ after ‘‘En- July 22, 1999 terprise for the Americas Board By the authority vested in me as President shall’’; and by the Constitution and the laws of the (2) by inserting at the end of the sec- United States of America, including the Agri- tion ‘‘The Enterprise for the Americas culture Trade Development and Assistance Board, as constituted pursuant to sec- Act of 1954 (‘‘ATDA Act’’), as amended, the tion 811 of the FAA, shall also advise Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (FAA), as the Secretary of State and the Admin- amended, the Foreign Operations, Export istrator of the United States Agency for International Development on the Financing and Related Programs Appropria- Secretary’s negotiation of Tropical tions Act, 1996 (Public Law 104–107), and Forest Agreements.’’ the Tropical Forest Conservation Act of 1998 (Public Law 105–214), it is hereby ordered (e) Section 3(c) is amended: as follows: (1) by striking ‘‘section 708(c)’’ after Section 1. Amendment of Executive Order ‘‘the ATDA Act and’’, and inserting 12757. Executive Order 12757, ‘‘Implemen- instead ‘‘sections 708(c) and 809(c)’’; tation of the Enterprise for the Americas Ini- (2) by striking ‘‘and’’ after ‘‘environ- tiative,’’ as amended by Executive Orders mental framework agreements’’ and 1468 July 23 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

inserting instead a comma (‘‘,’’); and Digest of Other (3) by inserting ‘‘and the Tropical White House Announcements Forest Agreements, respectively’’ after ‘‘Americas Framework Agree- ments’’. The following list includes the President’s public (f) Section 4(a) is amended by inserting schedule and other items of general interest an- at the end thereof ‘‘The two addi- nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and tional U.S. Government members of not included elsewhere in this issue. the Enterprise for the Americas Board appointed pursuant to section 811(b)(1)(A) of the FAA shall be a July 18 representative of the international In the afternoon, the President and Hillary Forestry Division of the United States Clinton returned to the White House from Forest Service and a representative of Camp David, MD. the Council on Environmental Qual- ity.’’ July 19 (g) Section 4(c)(1) is amended by striking In the afternoon, the President had meet- ‘‘section 708(c)(3)(C)’’ and inserting ings with Prime Minister Ehud Barak of instead ‘‘sections 708(c)(3)(C) and Israel in the Oval Office and in the Cabinet 811(c)(3)’’. Room. (h) Section 4(c)(2) is amended by striking The President announced his intention to ‘‘Part IV’’ and inserting instead ‘‘Parts nominate William B. Taylor, Jr., for the rank IV and V’’. of Ambassador during his tenure of service (i) Section 4(d) is amended to read as as Coordinator for U.S. Assistance to the follows: ‘‘(d) The five private non- New Independent States of the former So- governmental organization members viet Union. of the Board appointed pursuant to The White House announced that the section 610(b)(1)(B) of the ATDA Act President will travel to Sarajevo, Bosnia- and the two additional members ap- Herzegovina, on July 30 to participate in the pointed pursuant to section Southeast Europe Stability Pact Summit. 811(b)(1)(B) of the FAA shall be appointed by the President.’’ July 20 Section 2. Judicial Review. This order is The President announced his intention to intended only to improve the internal man- nominate Jeffrey A. Bader to be Ambassador agement of the Federal Government, and is to Namibia. not intended to create any right or benefit, The President announced his intention to substantive or procedural, enforceable by a appoint Curt Smitch as Commissioner of the party against the United States, agencies or Pacific Salmon Commission. instrumentalities, its officers or employees, The President announced his intention to or any other person. appoint Alison R. Bernstein, Lionel Bordeaux, Tom Colonnese, Verna Fowler, William J. Clinton Tommy Lewis, Jr., Joe McDonald, Joseph Martin, Gerald (Carty) Monette,Debra Nor- The White House, ris, Janine Pease-Pretty on Top, Anne C. Pe- July 22, 1999. tersen, Faith Ruth Roessel, Karl Stauber, Richard Trudell, and Patrick Williams as [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, members of the Board of Advisors on Tribal 12:20 p.m., July 26, 1999] Colleges and Universities. The President declared a major disaster in NOTE: This Executive order was released by the Nevada and ordered Federal aid to supple- Office of the Press Secretary on July 23, and it ment State and local recovery efforts in the will be published in the Federal Register on July area struck by severe storms and flash flood- 27. ing on July 8–16. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 1469

July 21 Submitted July 19 The White House announced that the President and First Lady will travel to New Andrew C. Fish, York City on July 23, to attend the private of Vermont, to be an Assistant Secretary of memorial service for John F. Kennedy, Jr., Agriculture, vice John David Carlin, re- and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. signed. Michael J. Gaines, July 22 of Maryland, to be a Commissioner of the In the morning, the President traveled to U.S. Parole Commission for a term of 6 years Lansing, MI, and in the afternoon, he re- (reappointment). turned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to David N. Greenlee, nominate Norman A. Wulf to be Special of Maryland, a career member of the Senior Representative for Nuclear Nonproliferation Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, with the rank of Ambassador at the Depart- to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- ment of State. potentiary of the United States of America The White House announced that the to the Republic of Paraguay. President declared a major disaster in Iowa and ordered Federal aid to supplement State Timothy Earl Jones, Sr., and local recovery efforts in the area struck of Georgia, to be a Commissioner of the U.S. by severe storms and flooding on July 2 and Parole Commission for the term of 6 years, continuing. vice George MacKenzie Rast, resigned.

July 23 Susan Ness, of Maryland, to be a member of the Federal In the morning, the President and Hillary Communications Commission for a term of and Chelsea Clinton traveled to New York 5 years from July 1, 1999 (reappointment). City to attend the private memorial service for John F. Kennedy, Jr., and Carolyn Marie F. Ragghianti, Bessette Kennedy at the Church of St. of Maryland, to be a Commissioner of the Thomas More. In the afternoon, the Presi- U.S. Parole Commission for the term of 6 dent and Chelsea Clinton returned to Wash- years, vice Edward F. Reiley, term expired. ington, DC. In the evening, the President traveled to John R. Simpson, Cincinnati, OH, where he attended a Demo- of Maryland, to be a Commissioner of the cratic National Committee dinner at a private U.S. Parole Commission for a term of 6 years residence. Later, he traveled to Aspen, CO. (reappointment).

William B. Taylor, Jr., of Virginia, for the rank of Ambassador during his tenure of service as Coordinator of U.S. Assistance for the New Independent States (new position). Nominations Submitted to the Senate Submitted July 21

Jeffrey A. Bader, The following list does not include promotions of of Florida, a career member of the Senior members of the Uniformed Services, nominations Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- eign Service officers. potentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Namibia. 1470 Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Jackie N. Williams, Released July 19 of Kansas, to be U.S. Attorney for the District Statement by the Press Secretary: President of Kansas for the term of 4 years, vice Ran- Clinton’s Trip to Southeast Europe dall K. Rathbun, resigned. Released July 20 Submitted July 22 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Amy C. Achor, retary Joe Lockhart of Texas, to be a member of the Board of Fact sheet: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Directors of the Corporation for National Ban Treaty and Community Service for a term expiring October 6, 2003, vice Leslie Lenkowsky, Announcement of nomination for U.S. Attor- term expired. ney for the District of Kansas Released July 21 Statement by the Press Secretary announcing the President and First Lady’s plans to attend Checklist the Kennedy memorial service in New York of White House Press Releases City Released July 22 The following list contains releases of the Office of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as Statement by the Press Secretary on disaster items nor covered by entries in the Digest of assistance for Iowa Other White House Announcements.

Released July 17 Acts Approved Transcript of a press briefing by National by the President Economic Adviser Gene Sperling on the Re- publican tax plan 1 Approved July 20 Statement by the Press Secretary on the President’s being informed about the dis- H.R. 775 / Public Law 106–37 appearance of the airplane carrying John F. Y2K Act Kennedy, Jr., and others Approved July 22 1 This release was made available by the Office of the Press Secretary on July 16 but was embar- H.R. 4 / Public Law 106–38 goed for release until 10:06 a.m. on July 17. National Missile Defense Act of 1999