The liberal Republic

[President Johnson]

March 2, 1983

BREAKING: Soviet Embassy Personnel fires shots at protesters in DC, at least one killed, several wounded

+++ Protest at Soviet Embassy in Washington turns violent, security opens fire +++

+++ One protester killed, several wounded +++

+++ President Brown condemns violence, mobilizes National Guard +++

+++ Moscow sends protest note: "Embassy was left unprotected against mob" +++



Two weeks since a group of international journalists begun publishing reports over Soviet war crimes in Afghanistan, protests across Western countries have erupted. After the newest piece revealed more Soviet crimes including depletion of natural resources, another protest before the Soviet Embassy in Washington DC emerged. Well over 5,000 people attended the march with just a few hundred police officers present. Although the protest remained peaceful throughout the day, it began turning violent in the evening hours while police was starting to withdraw forces.

At 8 pm EST, a group of several dozens of protesters begun claiming the gate to the Soviet Embassy. With just a handful of cops from the Metropolitan Police present, Soviet security personnel apparently opened fire at protesters attempting to enter the facility. A tumultuous scene emerged and one 27 year old was killed through a Soviet bullet before reaching the top of the gate. Several more were founded after dropping off the fence, one hit by a shot in the arm. After a near-confrontation between security personnel and police, most of the protest attenders withdrew from the site and continued their rally in surrounding streets.

By 9 pm., President Jerry Brown appeared before national television and called for calm after issuing a presidential order to mobilize the National Guard. In his first statement, the president condemned both the violent protest as well as the Soviet response by opening fire. “It appears to be blatant violation of diplomatic protocol. We will carefully evaluate the situation and take proper steps. Secretary Shriver is in contact with Moscow.”

While the National Guard was able to restore order at 10 pm., Moscow quickly sent a protest note that their embassy was apparently not “properly protected from an anti-Soviet mob, seeking to attack diplomatic facilities.” The protest vote did not directly mention casualties, only attempted to justify actions by security.


March 9, 1983: President Brown rejects diplomatic sanctions and withdrawal from US-Soviet negotiations over Iran-Iraq war



Immediately after the embassy incident, lawmakers and a number of journalists called for severe diplomatic sanctions against Moscow, including a potential withdrawal from Iran-Iraq peace talks in Geneva under US-Soviet chairmanship.

Nonetheless, President Jerry Brown during a public appearance in Miami, Florida, on March 9 directly dismissed the calls. “A withdrawal from Geneva would accomplish nothing for peace”, he said. Brown also confirmed to have spoken with Secretary General Andropov over the red line and agreed that neither side was taking any action with regard to sanctions over the incident. He denied to have spoken about the situation in Afghanistan. During an interview on TV, former Secretary of State Richard Nixon forcefully condemned Brown’s policies. “Unfortunately, President Brown is the weakest American leader towards the Soviets we have had in our history. It’s quite a mess.”


March 11, 1983: National Security Advisor Cyrus Vance resigns in protest



“We reacted slowly to this entire situation that has emerged now, and I do have the impression the president wants to put this entire Afghanistan saga under the rug”, Cyrus Vance is quoted by a Post reporter. Vance, a long-time National Security figure in politics, has officially resigned from his role as National Security Advisor, citing both age and “political differences”.

The White House only reacted with a brief press release thanking Vance for his service. President Brown has not immediately named a replacement, instead leaving the role on his deputy on an acting capacity.


March 17, 1983: Senate approves Bentsen-Dole Afghan Aid Act

With Afghanistan back in the headlines since a team of international journalists reported on Soviet war crimes, the debate over arms deliveries and President Brown’s imposed embargo reemerged in congress. Senator Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX) and Bob Dole (R-KS), the minority whip, introduced a new version of a law that seeks to overturn the president’s embargo after a first proposal in 1981 was narrowly defeated after a presidential veto. The so-called Bentsen-Dole Afghan Aid Act was approved by the senate on March 17, 1983, with 78 votes in favor. All Republicans voted in favor, as well as 32 Democrats. The House is expected to hold a vote in early April. Observers on the Hill believe that another Brown veto would be overridden this time around. President Brown is expected to return the bill again without his signature.


March 26, 1983: House narrowly votes down American Healthcare Act, Brown Administration admits defeat



Major defeat for the Brown Administration at the end of a tumultuous month: After months of careful negotiations, the House of Representatives has voted down the American Healthcare Act of 1983. 206 members, 185 Democrats and 19 Republicans, backed the proposal. 223 members voted against. The bill was a national version of the landmark New York law that was passed under former Governor Robert Kennedy. This is the second time a major healthcare reform law was defeated in the House; a similar bill was rejected in 1977 despite then-President Nelson Rockefeller throwing all his political capital into passage after winning a landslide reelection.

President Jerry Brown reacted at a speech in White House Rose Garden, admitting a “crushing defeat”. “I always knew it would be close and even then, the senate remained a challenge, I didn’t expect us falling short by 17 votes”, he said. Asked by a reporter whether he would seek to continue negotiations, the chief executive responded that he does not see a meaningful chance for this to get done before the next presidential election. “May we try again in ’85? Sure. Before? Frankly, I don’t see it. And this is bad news for America. But I won’t give up. We have more business to do.”


March 31, 1983: New Gallup poll

President Brown Job Approval
Approve: 44% ▼
Disapprove: 47% ▲

[MichaelRbn]

Brown would be the first president to marry while in office since Woodrow Wilson who wed his second wife in 1915.

[President Johnson]

Brown would be the first president to marry while in office since Woodrow Wilson who wed his second wife in 1915.

Thanks, I already forgot about that one. Fixed now

[President Johnson]

April 8, 1983: Internal paper leaked: CoS Gray Davis seeks to primary out healthcare law opponents, President Brown denies existence of such a plan



Controversy at the White House: A leaked protocol from an internal strategy meeting headed by Chief of Staff Gray Davis reveals that he intends to primary challenge Democratic lawmakers in the House who opposed President Brown’s signature healthcare law during last month’s vote in which the bill was narrowly defeated. “We had the House and some Republican crossover support, yet a bunch of suckers blew it up”, Davis is quoted. The leaked paper also shows a drafted list of representatives voting against the American Healthcare Act and lists potential challengers for some on that list. An internal note also seems to confirm that the plan was presented to President Jerry Brown, who seemingly asked for more details.

Asked by a reporter during a brief tour through New York City, President Brown himself denied the existence of such plan. “We had lots of lists in advance to run through the numbers who may vote for it. A lot of that information was public long in advance”, the chief executive told the journalist in a personal exchange, “I’m not aware of any such plan.”

Chief of Staff Gray Davis was officially “out of town” during the first two weeks of April, citing family-related reasons. He declined to comment after his return to DC on April 16. However, another leaked paper from the DNC seems to confirm the initial claim and that Davis in particular was extremely upset over the vote.


April 15, 1983: President Brown names Harold Brown National Security Advisor, ditches Brzeziński



Weeks after Cyrus Vance’s resignation in protest, President Jerry Brown named Deputy Defense Secretary Harold Brown as successor. According to White House sources, Vice President Jimmy Carter suggested his own National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brzeziński as new head of the National Security Office at 1600 Penn. However, after review, Brown rejected the proposal and picked Brown. Carter’s office formally denied such a suggestion ever existed, though two sources from within his office confirmed that. They also said that the president didn’t like Brzeziński too much. “He’s a self-promoter, who thinks he’s smarter than anybody else in the room”, Brown reportedly told his chief of staff, Gray Davis.


April 30, 1983: New Gallup poll

President Brown Job Approval
Approve: 47% ▲
Disapprove: 45% ▼


May 2 – 9, 1983: President Brown vetoes Bentsen-Dole Afghan Aid Act, congress overrules veto, arms embargo revoked



As expected, President Jerry Brown vetoed the Bentsen-Dole Afghan Aid Act on May 6, 1983, when it reached his desk. Senators Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX) and Bob Dole (R-KS) introduced a new piece of legislation to overrule arms embargo announced by Brown in 1981 after a team of international journalists revealed a series of Soviet war crimes since the invasion began in 1979.

With these revelations, momentum was not on Brown’s side who continued to insist any delivery of weapons to local Afghan forces would not end the conflict. However, the senate overrode the veto on May 8 by a vote of 72 to 25. The House of Representatives quickly followed on May 9 with a 326 to 103 vote. Subsequently, the bill became law without Brown’s signature. It was the first time a veto by Brown didn’t sustain.

In a first reaction, the White House expressed criticism of the decision. Neither a spokesman for the president nor Defense Secretary Edmund Muskie commented on how to implement the law.


May 14, 1983: Senator Paul Laxalt announces presidential campaign; the conservative frontrunner?



The 1984 presidential campaign has de facto begun, with a heavyweight announcing his bid: Senator Paul Laxalt of Nevada, a Reagan confidant and member of the conservative wing of his party, officially released a statement that he was indeed running for president. “In a critical time for America, when conservative leadership is more needed than ever, I have decided to seek the Republican nomination for president”, the statement reads. The Nevada senator, who also served as governor while Reagan was his counterpart in neighboring California, has lately been second in polls after Howard Baker, who is considered a more moderate Republican. Baker, Reagan’s 1980 running mate, has not confirmed or denied a bid for the White House, but is widely considered to enter the race in the coming months.

Laxalt gave an informal campaign speech the next day, on May 15, though an official kick-off rally in Las Vegas is scheduled for June 5. The Laxalt campaign also announced that the senator would soon present a far-reaching tax reform plan similar to Reagan’s in 1980, seeking to implement major tax cuts and deregulation measures.

Meanwhile, President Jerry Brown is expected to launch his official reelection campaign at some time during the fall, sources say. So far, the incumbent is not expected to face serious competition of the Democratic nomination.


Late May 1983: “Make Gerald Ford president again!” Prominent moderate Republicans led by David Rockefeller launch draft-committee to promote Ford candidacy



With the presidential contest for 1984 on the horizon, various Republican groups look for probable candidates to challenge President Jerry Brown. With the current occupant of the White House now again appearing more vulnerable than at the time of the midterms, observers expect a larger Republican field of at least a dozen serious contenders. Although Senator Howard Baker (R-TN), Reagan’s running mate in 1980, seemed to emerge as the leading contender of the moderate GOP wing, a lot of former Rockefeller confidants and administration officials looked for alternatives.

In late May, a draft-committee led by billionaire financier and businessman David Rockefeller, brother of late President Nelson Rockefeller, formed to call upon ex-President Gerald Ford to seek the presidency in his own right in 1984. [Nelson] Rockefeller’s vice president and successor, who stepped aside in 1980 after stiff competition from Reagan, remains the most popular living Republican according to polls.

An essay published in various American newspapers on May 29 and 30 called upon the former president to run. “We believe in principals of pragmatic governance that seeks to balance interests of labor and business, promote civil rights, and preserve freedoms from excessive government while granting protection for the most vulnerable. We believe in a strong defense, strong American power overseas and growing economy at home. We also believe in fiscal responsivity and accountability”, the essay reads, “and while we recognize that the conservative wing is vital to the Republican Party and has valid concerns, we also believe that too strong pandering to the right is not going to win a national election. An election we need to win after the leadership failure of President Brown. While we see engaged and talented Republican candidates, we also believe that the best possible person to fulfill this mission of defeating President Brown and restoring true American greatness is President Gerald R. Ford. Therefore, we urge the Honorable Gerald R. Ford to declare his candidacy for the presidency of the United States and we urge you to support him.”

The essay is co-signed by several Republican politicians, both current and former.

Sources familiar with Rockefeller say that the late president’s brother was building a campaign infrastructure nationwide that Ford could immediately rely upon announcing a bid. However, it would lend its support to another moderate candidate and moderate down ballot candidates should Ford decide against another bid for the Oval Office.


“I’m humbled by their support, but it’s not on my mind”

Gerald Ford himself quickly responded to the news and confirmed that Rockefeller informed him in advance over the essay. However, the former president said he had no plans to return to public office. “I’m humbled by their support, but it’s not on my mind”, he said and added that he hardly sees a scenario that would change his mind. “I’ve been there, it has been a stressful but very humbling experience. We got good Republican candidates, I think, and I’m glad to throw my support to anyone who’s our nominee in the end.” He declined to directly criticize President Brown by name though.


May 31, 1983: New Gallup poll

President Brown Job Approval
Approve: 45% ▼
Disapprove: 45% ▬

[Blow by blow, the passion dies]

April 8, 1983: Internal paper leaked: CoS Gray Davis seeks to primary out healthcare law opponents, President Brown denies existence of such a plan



Controversy at the White House: A leaked protocol from an internal strategy meeting headed by Chief of Staff Gray Davis reveals that he intends to primary challenge Democratic lawmakers in the House who opposed President Brown’s signature healthcare law during last month’s vote in which the bill was narrowly defeated. “We had the House and some Republican crossover support, yet a bunch of suckers blew it up”, Davis is quoted. The leaked paper also shows a drafted list of representatives voting against the American Healthcare Act and lists potential challengers for some on that list. An internal note also seems to confirm that the plan was presented to President Jerry Brown, who seemingly asked for more details.

Asked by a reporter during a brief tour through New York City, President Brown himself denied the existence of such plan. “We had lots of lists in advance to run through the numbers who may vote for it. A lot of that information was public long in advance”, the chief executive told the journalist in a personal exchange, “I’m not aware of any such plan.”

Chief of Staff Gray Davis was officially “out of town” during the first two weeks of April, citing family-related reasons. He declined to comment after his return to DC on April 16. However, another leaked paper from the DNC seems to confirm the initial claim and that Davis in particular was extremely upset over the vote.


April 15, 1983: President Brown names Harold Brown National Security Advisor, ditches Brzeziński



Weeks after Cyrus Vance’s resignation in protest, President Jerry Brown named Deputy Defense Secretary Harold Brown as successor. According to White House sources, Vice President Jimmy Carter suggested his own National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brzeziński as new head of the National Security Office at 1600 Penn. However, after review, Brown rejected the proposal and picked Brown. Carter’s office formally denied such a suggestion ever existed, though two sources from within his office confirmed that. They also said that the president didn’t like Brzeziński too much. “He’s a self-promoter, who thinks he’s smarter than anybody else in the room”, Brown reportedly told his chief of staff, Gray Davis.


April 30, 1983: New Gallup poll

President Brown Job Approval
Approve: 47% ▲
Disapprove: 45% ▼


May 2 – 9, 1983: President Brown vetoes Bentsen-Dole Afghan Aid Act, congress overrules veto, arms embargo revoked



As expected, President Jerry Brown vetoed the Bentsen-Dole Afghan Aid Act on May 6, 1983, when it reached his desk. Senators Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX) and Bob Dole (R-KS) introduced a new piece of legislation to overrule arms embargo announced by Brown in 1981 after a team of international journalists revealed a series of Soviet war crimes since the invasion began in 1979.

With these revelations, momentum was not on Brown’s side who continued to insist any delivery of weapons to local Afghan forces would not end the conflict. However, the senate overrode the veto on May 8 by a vote of 72 to 25. The House of Representatives quickly followed on May 9 with a 326 to 103 vote. Subsequently, the bill became law without Brown’s signature. It was the first time a veto by Brown didn’t sustain.

In a first reaction, the White House expressed criticism of the decision. Neither a spokesman for the president nor Defense Secretary Edmund Muskie commented on how to implement the law.


May 14, 1983: Senator Paul Laxalt announces presidential campaign; the conservative frontrunner?



The 1984 presidential campaign has de facto begun, with a heavyweight announcing his bid: Senator Paul Laxalt of Nevada, a Reagan confidant and member of the conservative wing of his party, officially released a statement that he was indeed running for president. “In a critical time for America, when conservative leadership is more needed than ever, I have decided to seek the Republican nomination for president”, the statement reads. The Nevada senator, who also served as governor while Reagan was his counterpart in neighboring California, has lately been second in polls after Howard Baker, who is considered a more moderate Republican. Baker, Reagan’s 1980 running mate, has not confirmed or denied a bid for the White House, but is widely considered to enter the race in the coming months.

Laxalt gave an informal campaign speech the next day, on May 15, though an official kick-off rally in Las Vegas is scheduled for June 5. The Laxalt campaign also announced that the senator would soon present a far-reaching tax reform plan similar to Reagan’s in 1980, seeking to implement major tax cuts and deregulation measures.

Meanwhile, President Jerry Brown is expected to launch his official reelection campaign at some time during the fall, sources say. So far, the incumbent is not expected to face serious competition of the Democratic nomination.


Late May 1983: “Make Gerald Ford president again!” Prominent moderate Republicans led by David Rockefeller launch draft-committee to promote Ford candidacy



With the presidential contest for 1984 on the horizon, various Republican groups look for probable candidates to challenge President Jerry Brown. With the current occupant of the White House now again appearing more vulnerable than at the time of the midterms, observers expect a larger Republican field of at least a dozen serious contenders. Although Senator Howard Baker (R-TN), Reagan’s running mate in 1980, seemed to emerge as the leading contender of the moderate GOP wing, a lot of former Rockefeller confidants and administration officials looked for alternatives.

In late May, a draft-committee led by billionaire financier and businessman David Rockefeller, brother of late President Nelson Rockefeller, formed to call upon ex-President Gerald Ford to seek the presidency in his own right in 1984. [Nelson] Rockefeller’s vice president and successor, who stepped aside in 1980 after stiff competition from Reagan, remains the most popular living Republican according to polls.

An essay published in various American newspapers on May 29 and 30 called upon the former president to run. “We believe in principals of pragmatic governance that seeks to balance interests of labor and business, promote civil rights, and preserve freedoms from excessive government while granting protection for the most vulnerable. We believe in a strong defense, strong American power overseas and growing economy at home. We also believe in fiscal responsivity and accountability”, the essay reads, “and while we recognize that the conservative wing is vital to the Republican Party and has valid concerns, we also believe that too strong pandering to the right is not going to win a national election. An election we need to win after the leadership failure of President Brown. While we see engaged and talented Republican candidates, we also believe that the best possible person to fulfill this mission of defeating President Brown and restoring true American greatness is President Gerald R. Ford. Therefore, we urge the Honorable Gerald R. Ford to declare his candidacy for the presidency of the United States and we urge you to support him.”

The essay is co-signed by several Republican politicians, both current and former.

Sources familiar with Rockefeller say that the late president’s brother was building a campaign infrastructure nationwide that Ford could immediately rely upon announcing a bid. However, it would lend its support to another moderate candidate and moderate down ballot candidates should Ford decide against another bid for the Oval Office.


“I’m humbled by their support, but it’s not on my mind”

Gerald Ford himself quickly responded to the news and confirmed that Rockefeller informed him in advance over the essay. However, the former president said he had no plans to return to public office. “I’m humbled by their support, but it’s not on my mind”, he said and added that he hardly sees a scenario that would change his mind. “I’ve been there, it has been a stressful but very humbling experience. We got good Republican candidates, I think, and I’m glad to throw my support to anyone who’s our nominee in the end.” He declined to directly criticize President Brown by name though.


May 31, 1983: New Gallup poll

President Brown Job Approval
Approve: 45% ▼
Disapprove: 45% ▬

I thought Laxalt was a moderate

[President Johnson]

snip

I thought Laxalt was a moderate

Not really, he was very close to Reagan. Personally as well, and was sometimes referred to as "First Friend" while Reagan was president. Laxalt also cited Goldwater as a role model long before 1980. Perhaps that cost him the senate election in 1964, when he agreed to a campaign event with Goldwater. His advisors were against it, though he considered him a friend and thought he could never look him in the eye anymore after declining to appear with Goldwater. Laxalt then narrowly lost that race.

[President Johnson]

June 4, 1983: Associate Justice Arthur Goldberg announces retirement, giving Brown second SCOTUS nomination



Break News from the Supreme Court: Associate Justice Arthur Goldberg formally announced his retirement by the conclusion of the June term. He previously informed President Jerry Brown over his decision. Goldberg, 75, was initially appointed in 1961 by President Kennedy before he was pressured to take over the position of UN Ambassador by President Johnson in 1965. After a failed gubernatorial bid in New York in 1970, President Johnson reappointed him to the court in 1971.

After Shirley Hufstedler’s nomination in 1981, Goldberg’s departure from the bench creates another vacancy for President Jerry Brown to fill. The White House pledged to nominate a candidate within 30 days. Some sources say the president considers propose another woman to the seat.


New York Activists raise Bobby Kennedy’s name for nomination



Shortly after Justice Goldberg’s retirement from the Supreme Court was published, a number of Democratic activists in New York raised Robert Kennedy’s name for the position. Kennedy, a lawyer by profession, retreated from public life since his final term as governor expired on New Year’s Eve 1982. The office of the former governor, vice president and attorney general was not available for comment.

Other names raised were Sandra Day O’Connor, Charles Kirbo, Stephanie Kulp Seymour, Samuel D. Johnson Jr. as well as incumbent Attorney General Ramsey Clark. However, Clark formally declined any interest in the position.


June 22, 1983: Congressman Phil Crane enters presidential race



Another GOP candidate jumped into the presidential race of 1984 after Senator Paul Laxalt’s announcement: Illinois Congressman Phil Crane launched his bid on June 22 with a rally in Springfield, Illinois. In his remarks, Crane stated that he wanted to restore American greatness abroad and set conditions for lasting economic recovery at home. “Jerry Brown has no answers to the challenges of our time”, the congressman told supporters, “we’ll turn things around after this election. The Brown honeymoon is long over.”

Political observers give Crane just an outside chance to win the Republican nomination. Some suggested he is merely running for the vice presidency or a cabinet appointment. Crane belongs the conservative wing of the Republican Party.


Bob Dole: “I’m not running for president, stay focused on senate leadership”



Speculation over a Dole presidential bid have been around for some time, and a number of reporters on the Hill suggested his elevation to Republican Whip in the senate is a steeping stone for a presidential candidacy. Supporters of Dole point out that he was earned a reputation in congress and is widely respected among moderate and conservative Republicans alike. However, on June 23, Bob Dole released a statement he was not running for president in 1984. “I’m focused on my job as whip and a White House bid would consume too much time and effort”, the statement reads. “Senator Dole will at some point make an endorsement, but it’s premature at this stage and with urgent legislative business on his timetable”, the statement continues.


June 28, 1983: Talks over national unity government in Nicaragua collapse, President Brown reinforces arms embargo and asks congress for codification



Setback for the Brown Administration’s diplomatic efforts at the international front: Talks between government representatives and the Contras collapsed a few months into talks with little substantive results. A government spokesman justified withdrawal from the process that the other side was “not showing any particular interest in a settlement”. With this development, the armed conflict between the left-wing government and Contras is expected to continue. The initial negations over a unity government were started by Secretary of State Sargent Shriver.

The State Department in DC expressed regrets over the recent move. Meanwhile, President Jerry Brown reinforced an arms embargo he already imposed on the Contras. In a written statement to congress, the president called for legislation to prohibit support for the Contras due to their human rights violations. According to Robert Byrd staffer, the majority leader quickly plans to work on a bill.


June 30, 1983: “Reckless spending!”: President Brown vetoes Defense Authorization Act, government shutdown looming?



With government funding running out on July 31, President Jerry Brown has rejected a compromise bill sent to his desk. He called a 7.5% increase of the defense budget “reckless spending”, as the administration originally requested just a 2.5% hike. At pressure of Republican in the senate, the Pentagon’s budget was significantly increased after liberal Democrats insisted on more healthcare and education funding. Republican Leader Mark Hatfield, despite backlash from conservatives, agreed in exchange for the defense budget’s increase and a spending freeze on environmental projects.

According to a White House source, Chief of Staff Gray Davis was upset over the lack of consultation with the White House by senators, including from his own party. As the Defense Authorzation Act was first passed at GOP request, the chief executive promptly vetoed the defense budget altogether. President Jerry Brown, who aims to continue reducing the deficit, called upon congress for new negotiations for a budget. A meeting with congressional leaders is scheduled for July 7 at the White House. Should the administration and congress fail to reach an agreement, a government shutdown would follow.


June 30, 1983: New Gallup polls, including for 1984

President Brown Job Approval
Approve: 45% ▼
Disapprove: 46% ▲


1984 Republican presidential primary
Paul Laxalt: 30%
Howard Baker: 21%
Jack Kemp: 11%
Phil Crane: 5%
George Deukmejian: 4%
Jim Thompson: 3%
Lowell Weicker (new): 3%
Someone else: 11%
Undecided: 12%

Note: Only Laxalt and Crane have declared their candidancies, the others are suspected to run.

Since a "Draft Ford" Committee was launched by financier David Rockefeller, Gallup also included former President Gerald Ford in separate polls. While not categorically ruling out a bid, Ford denied any intention to jump back into electoral politics.

Gerald Ford: 39%
Paul Laxalt: 23%
Howard Baker: 10%
Jack Kemp: 7%
Phil Crane: 3%
Jim Thompson: 3%
Lowell Weicker (new): 2%
George Deukmejian: 2%
Someone else: 4%
Undecided: 7%


1984 General election matchups

Gerald Ford (R): 52%
Jerry Brown (D, inc.): 44%

Paul Laxalt (R): 47%
Jerry Brown (D, inc.): 45%

Howard Baker (R): 47%
Jerry Brown (D, inc.): 44%

Jerry Brown (D, inc.): 45%
Jack Kemp (R): 45%

Jerry Brown (D, inc.): 46%
Phil Crane (R): 44%

Jerry Brown (D, inc.): 45%
Jim Thompson (R): 43%

Jerry Brown (D, inc.): 45%
Lowell Weicker (R): 41%

George Deukmejian (R): 46%
Jerry Brown (D, inc.): 45%

[Real Texan Politics]

I think Paul Laxalt would be good if he's anything like his grandson (future senator Adam Laxalt)

[OSR stands with Israel]

I think Paul Laxalt would be good if he's anything like his grandson (future senator Adam Laxalt)

Paul Laxalt was way better than his grandson given that his grandson has not proven anything yet

[Sir Mohamed]

Justice Robert Kennedy? That would be interesting. He'd already be 58 in 1983 though.

Would also be an interesting plot twist if 1984 ends up as Brown vs. Ford.

[Kahane's Grave Is A Gender-Neutral Bathroom]

Justice Robert Kennedy? That would be interesting. He'd already be 58 in 1983 though.

Would also be an interesting plot twist if 1984 ends up as Brown vs. Ford.

I'm hoping RBG a decade early.

[President Johnson]

July 2, 1983

BREAKING: President Brown nominates José A. Cabranes to Supreme Court



A name nobody had on the list to replace Justice Arthur Goldberg, President Jerry Brown pulled a huge surprise with his selection: Appeals Court Judge José A. Cabranes, 43 years of age, is the name the chief executive will submit to the senate for confirmation. Cabranes, a lawyer by profession, was appointed to his current position at the first United States Appeals Court in early 1981 and was one of Jerry Brown’s first judicial nomination. Before, he served at the District Court for the District of Connecticut since 1978. At the time, he was appointed by Republican President Nelson Rockefeller in a deal with Senate Democrats. On both occasions, he was unanimously confirmed via voice vote. Joined by Vice President Carter, President Brown himself announced the nomination on July 2 in the White House East Room.

With his pick, President Brown again makes history my nominating the first Supreme Court justice with Puerto Rican roots. White House sources say the president was torn between Cabranes and another female candidate. Accordingly, Brown hopes to nominate a second woman during a second term in office.

Senate Majority Leader Robert Byrd said the senate will process the nomination right away, with first hearings scheduled around July 20. A group of Republican senators indicated support for the candidate already. After a brief summer recess, Byrd plans to hold a vote in late August or early September, so Cabranes could join the bench before the autumn term begins.


July 9, 1983: President Brown announces new Energy Independence Plan, signs executive orders on solar panels for federal buildings



With the economy continuing to show weak signs of recovery and ongoing high energy prices, President Jerry Brown presented a new Energy Independence Plan to the nation. The chief executive informed the public that he has signed a presidential memorandum for the Departments of Interior and Energy to look for increased oil production in the US and approved new drilling sites in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Mexico. While this move was criticized by environmentalists, it remained much more limited than initially asked for by oil companies. The president also proposed an additional tax on oil businesses to fund more research on optimization of energy production and new forms of energy.

Additionally, President Brown issued an executive order for construction solar panels on several federal buildings to save energy costs. Joined by Secretary of Energy John B. Anderson, the president also presented a new 300 million dollar investment program in solar energy and research. The funds have already been approved by congress in April.


July 16, 1983: Senator Howard Baker confirms White House bid, will launch campaign in August



Long expected and one of the least kept secrets of Washington has finally been confirmed officially: Senator Howard Baker (R-TN), Ronald Reagan’s 1980 running mate, will announce his bid for the presidency in August. The senator confirmed his plans to a reporter of the New York Times. “Yes, I am going to run for president”, he told the journalist, “our country has a lot more potential at home and abroad. I want to restore American leadership. We have a lot of work to do.”

Baker is considered the leading candidate for the moderate wing in 1984 and has, after the 1980 defeat, repeatedly floated plans to run. The only question for his position to remain is whether the recently launched “Draft Ford” campaign continues to gain momentum. Should former President Gerald Ford enter the contest, it would significantly alter the race for 1984.

Meanwhile, Baker indicated not to seek reelection to the senate in 1984, regardless of whether he wins the Republican nomination or not.


July 20, 1983: Senate votes down constitutional amendment for Electoral College reform



Two and a half your debate come to an end: With just 61 senators in favor and 38 opposed, the upper chamber of congress has defeated the constitutional amendment that would reform the Electoral College. The proposal initially made by a group of Republican members of the House in early 1981 would have expanded the Electoral College by 50 votes that would have been allocated to the winner of the national popular vote. The amendment was introduced after Republican nominee Ronald Reagan won a plurality of votes in the 1980 presidential election, but narrowly lost the Electoral College to Democrat Jerry Brown who carried the tipping point state, Missouri, by 210 votes after an extensive controversy over a number of provisional ballots.

Almost all senators of the South from both parties, except Lawton Chiles (D-FL) and Sam Nunn (D-GA) voted the proposal down. In the end, 21 Democrats and 17 Republicans opposed the amendment. Their main argument was that a national popular vote measurement was never intended by the Founding Fathers. John Tower (R-TX), usually a more conservative Republican, argued against because no independent authority such as secretaries of the state would certify the national popular vote winner. “The Secretary of State is under the direct jurisdiction of the president, pledges to support him, and therefore has a conflict of interest.” Senator Alan Cranston (D-CA), a supporter of the reform, dismissed this as a “bogus argument” during a heated senate debate.

In a statement, President Jerry Brown expressed his disappointment over the vote. He already came out in favor of the amendment in 1981. A statement by Ronald Reagan’s office reads similar. The former California governor and nominee also backed the proposal, but did not actively lobby for its passage.  


July 26, 1983: President Brown signs temporary budget to avoid shutdown





After President Jerry Brown vetoed the Defense Authorization Act the previous months, he now reached an agreement with congress and signed a temporary budget that funds the federal government until November 30, 1983. Republicans agreed to a smaller hike of defense spending while the president backed off a number of spending increases for federal aid to education. His compromise was criticized by members of the liberal wing like Ted Kennedy, who voted against. Brown rejected his critics, saying this was the best possible outcome for the moment.

Negotiations over complete budget will continue in September, according to White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis.


July 31, 1983: New Gallup poll

President Brown Job Approval
Approve: 48% ▲
Disapprove: 45% ▼

[President Johnson]

August 1, 1983: Senate hearings: Defense Secretary Muskie gets in heated exchange with Senator Pete Wilson over accusations administration delays Afghan aid



Did the Brown Administration deliberately delay Afghan arms deliveries? Shortly before the senate went into summer recess, Secretary of Defense Edmund Muskie appeared before lawmakers to answer to a number of questions. Most notably about military aid to Afghan forces. Congress this spring overrode an arms embargo imposed by the administration despite President Brown’s vehement opposition. A recent Intel report showed that hardly any material has so far been delivered, despite being mandated by congress. The Pentagon and White House repeatedly claimed logistical problems for delays. However, Brown backers in the senate could no longer prevent Muskie from being questioned over the matter.

Most notably was an exchange between Muskie and freshman Senator Pete Wilson (R-CA), who accused the administration of “delay tactics”. The highlights of the hearing:

Senator Wilson: Secretary Muskie, thank you for appearing before this body today. Numerous intel reports that I have right here indicate that merely arms worth less than ten million dollars have been supplied to Afghan forces, mostly defensive weapons. The Bentsen-Dole Act, enacted by congress, clearly authorizes a lot more, including heavy weapons. How is it that your administration has done so little in all these months while we continue to learn of Soviet war crimes?

Secretary Muskie: Senator, the numbers you are referring to were from early last month. I have not been briefed over exact numbers in recent days. However, I have alright outlined in detail a number of logistical problems we’re facing in the region so…

Senator Wilson [interrupts]: Pardon, Mr. Secretary, you gave a lengthy statement over logistical issues without providing any information how you’re going to fix it? Isn’t that the task of the executive branch after all? You’re supposed to execute the laws – we, the lawmakers – pass.

Secretary Muskie: As I said, Sir, I am not able to provide any details because it would endanger shipments and make them vulnerable.

Senator Wilson: I have yet to see any evidence for that.

Secretary Muskie: What kind of evidence? I have repeatedly…

Senator Wilson [interrupts]: Pardon again, Mr. Secretary, I am asking the questions here. That’s what you said when you were a senator.

Secretary Muskie: You asked me a question and asked back on more details.

Senator Wilson: More seems like an effort to buy more time, which I will not permit. So, you said you were not briefed in recent days?

Secretary Muskie: That’s correct.



Senator Wilson: So unfortunately we have to confess that Secretary Muskie is totally unware what’s going on. Either he is deliberately left in the dark by his superior, or was instructed not to cooperate with congress after the president’s veto was overridden. Did the president of the United States, Edmund G. Brown Jr., invoke executive privilege over these matters? Because I believe there are little grounds for such.

Secretary Muskie: The president does not invoke executive privilege, senator. Indeed, the president was always a supporter of government transparency and strengthened such since taking office.

Senator Wilson: Unfortunately, Secretary Muskie, I believe that your administration is deliberately delaying aid to help Afghans defend themselves because the president himself has determined it is not his policy. But the president needs to be reminded that there’s a law on the book that requires otherwise.

Secretary Muskie: I strongly reject that notion.

Senator Wilson: You can reject that notion all you want, because it is clear evidence.

Secretary Muskie [interrupts]: I need to get the record straight so that…

Senator Wilson [interrupts]: Time is up, Mr. Secretary. I yield the floor.


August 13, 1983: Sources: President Brown to launch official reelection bid in September, Carter to stay on ticket



Sources from within the Brown circle now report that the president plans to launch his official reelection bid in September. Accordingly, Jerry Brown not only plans to announce his long expected bid for a second term in the White House, he also intends to introduce a second term agenda highlighting on healthcare reform and a major tax reform. It is not yet known who will head the 1984 Brown campaign. Chief of Staff Gray Davis was rumored to take the role, but officially denied such speculation. “President Brown asked me to continue running the White House and make sure he successfully governs until November 1984. A lot more remains to be done.”

Meanwhile, sources confirm Vice President Jimmy Carter will be Jerry Brown’s running mate. After the narrow 1972 defeat, this would be the second time the Democratic Party nominated the Georgia politician for vice president, with 12 years in between. Brown is not expected to face any serious challenge from his own party, although his recent approvals have taken a hit.


Late August 1983: Despite hesitancy from former president, “Draft Ford” campaign gains steam



Months after a GOP-affiliated group led by David Rockefeller launched a “Draft Ford” campaign to convince former President Gerald Ford to run for president in 1984, the movement has gained steam over July and August, with neither Senators Paul Laxalt nor Howard Baker making a strong appearance so far and President Jerry Brown’s approval ratings slipping again. Hundreds of state legislators in all 50 states and two dozen GOP congressmen already joined and formally endorsed a Ford candidacy. They’re joined by several former Rockefeller Administration officials from all ranks, most notably former Secretary of State Richard Nixon and National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger. A number of business leaders and unions also urged the former president to consider a bid for the White House after stepping aside early in 1980 to allow Reagan win the nomination. Even a group of Reagan campaign staffers admitted that the former president may have the best chance of any Republican to regain the Oval Office.

Ford, who moved to California after leaving office, himself said back in May another run was not on his mind, but has not entirely ruled out a run. According to David Rockefeller, the successor of his late brother promised him to reconsider his stance after consulting with his family and friends. However, while he would start out as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination, some conservative Republicans remain skeptical over the more moderate Ford, who served under liberal Republican Nelson Rockefeller. They also point to the fact that Ford would be 71 years of age at the time of the January 1985 inauguration, making him the oldest president in America history. He would already be a year older than his former boss, who died at 70 in May 1979, while serving in his second term.

David Rockefeller has vowed to use the campaign infrastructure built not only for the White House contest, but to promote moderate Republicans that run for congress and statewide office, even if Ford finally declines to run again.


Ford speech “to restore American greatness” fuels speculation over candidacy

After weeks of rare public engagement, former President Gerald Ford appeared in his old home of Grand Rapids, Michigan, on August 24, where a park was named in his honor. Before an audience of over 3,000 people, the former chief executive gave the most political speech since leaving office in January 1981. Highlighting the accomplishments of the Rockefeller-Ford years (1973-1981), he draw a more critical picture of America at this very moment. “Unfortunately, we have witnessed a number of setbacks in many areas. A weak economic recovery that is about to be reversed, economists tell us, a lack of productivity in congress and a severe loss in American prestige abroad. It increasingly looks like as we moved from détente to something that no longer deserves this name”, the former president said, “I believe it is time to restore American greatness both at home and abroad. Where the federal government gets back to basic frameworks for lasting economic growth instead of a staggering bureaucracy and where Soviet hunger for dominance is meet with strength and determination.”

In light of ongoing efforts to get Ford back into the political arena, observers begun shifting their previous skeptical tone in the press. The Los Angeles Times wrote: “While it looked like a non-starter simply because Mr. Ford was done with electoral politics, it’s not only gaining traction among Republicans and disaffected Democrats, Ford himself may actually have second thoughts about his political career. If he were to run, it could either end in embarrassing defeat, or one of the greatest political comebacks since the founding of the republic. He may have no choice in the end but try.”


August 31, 1983: New Gallup poll

President Brown Job Approval
Approve: 44% ▼
Disapprove: 48% ▲

[MATTROSE94]

I think Paul Laxalt would be good if he's anything like his grandson (future senator Adam Laxalt)

Paul Laxalt was way better than his grandson given that his grandson has not proven anything yet

Adam Laxalt is little more than a vile insurrectionist and fascist enabler. Unfortunately, he is guaranteed victory in November and will likely be a lifer in the Senate given that Nevada is zooming rightward.

[President Johnson]

September 1, 1983: World shell-shocked after USSR shots down Korean civilian airliner, killing 269



Korean Air Lines Flight 007, scheduled from New York City to Seoul via Anchorage, was shot down by a Soviet fighter jet. Following an apparent navigational mistake made by the Boeing 747, the airliner deviated from its original planned route and flew through Soviet prohibited airspace around the time of a U.S. aerial reconnaissance mission. The Soviet Air Forces treated the unidentified aircraft as an intruding U.S. spy plane, and destroyed it with air-to-air missiles, after firing warning shots which were probably not seen by the pilots. The plane eventually crashed in the sea near Moneron Island west of Sakhalin in the Sea of Japan. All passengers and crew, 269, aboard were killed.

The Soviet government initially denied knowledge of the incident, but days later admitted shooting down the aircraft, claiming that it was a possible spy mission. Sources from within the Brown Administration claimed that the Shriver State Department issued not only a protest note, but also told the Soviet Ambassador during a secret meeting that the accusation was “completely false”. While not confirming such a meeting, a spokesman for the White House confirmed that Secretary Shriver sent diplomatic protest note. Later on, a source says that the ambassador told Shriver the military response was probably an error, confirming leaked US intel documents.


President Brown resists massive pressure to sanction Moscow, rejects proposals to close US air space for Soviet airlines



Although President Jerry Brown and members of his administration criticized the Soviet Union in the most starkest terms, the president on September 7 formally rejected calls to close American air space for civilian Soviet planes. “I understand the passions behind this, it would just not be a rational decision. And as president, I’m elected to make rational decisions”, the chief executive said, “it won’t bring back a single life that is lost. Way important is full transparency and my administration is prepared to take steps that will happen.” Asked by a reporter what measures he would take instead, the president declined.

A number of lawmakers including from his own party repeatedly called upon Brown to close US airspace for any Soviet airplanes and also demanded additional sanctions. The administration has resisted these calls, with Secretary of State Sargent Shriver saying this was not a time for “rushed actions” after a supposedly terrible accident. Following his statement, more than a dozen GOP congressmen called upon his resignation.


Presidential hopeful Paul Laxalt on the offensive: Brown is a “useful idiot for the Politburo”



Senator Paul Laxalt during first presidential rally in New Hampshire attacked President Brown for his response on Korean Air Lines Flight 007. “Hundreds of lives lost for nothing but Soviet warmongering, yet the president has nothing but empty words. The people will remember when they go to the polls”, the senator told supporters at a Concord rally. “I don’t like saying it, my friends, but we have approached a point in which the president of the United States is a useful idiot for the Politburo. It’s a sad and necessary conclusion after the most recent days.”

All other GOP contenders strongly attacked Brown as well, though Laxalt used the starkest terms among them.

Asked for a response on Laxalt's remarks, President Brown just said: "Why would I be surprised to hear this from a Republican officeseeker?"


Senator Lloyd Bentsen: Regrets among Democrats over not nominating me in 1980 soar, Brown allies fire back



Ever since losing the Democratic nomination to Brown, Senator Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX) remained a skeptic of the administration and has repeatedly opposed some Brown’s policies and nominees before the senate. During an exchange with a CBS reporter on September 8, Bentsen said that some of his Democratic colleagues in congress as well as a few governors, without mentioning names, told him they felt the party made a mistake by not nominating him in 1980. “They think we wouldn’t have had such an election drama in the first place, as I would have beaten Reagan outright. And more importantly, they say I would have been a superior president.” Asked whether he would consider to challenge the president in 1984, Bentsen denied and quickly changed subject. However, some observers claim that Bentsen is actually weighing his chances, especially once a new economic report is about to be published at the end of September, shortly after President Brown is expected to launch his official reelection campaign.

Senator Bentsen’s comments made some waves in DC, with Brown allies quickly coming to his defense. White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis dismissed the comments, even telling a reporter that the Texas senator was “way over his head.” Senator Geraldine Ferraro (D-NY) criticized her colleague: “The spirit of a teamplayer looks different. You’re not running from the president to prop up your own ambitions just because you think he’s wrong on a particular question. There are legitimate reasons to question his judgement on what happened on September 1, but Senator Bentsen needs to leave 1980 behind and help us win ’84.”


September 9, 1983: Transportation Secretary Ruckelshaus resigns in protest



The fallout from President Jerry Brown’s response to Korean Air Lines Flight 007 continues: Transportation Secretary William Ruckelshaus formally submitted his resignation in response of recent developments. “I have come to the difficult conclusion that I cannot continue to serve”, the statement reads in part.

Aside Energy Secretary John Anderson, Ruckelshaus was the only other Republican to serve at a cabinet-level position in the Brown Administration. Previously, he held other positions such as EPA Director during the presidencies of Nelson Rockefeller and Gerald Ford. In a formal statement, the White House regretted his decision. A timetable for a replacement was not given, only that President Brown would “swiftly submit a name to the senate for confirmation.”

[Sir Mohamed]

Ugh, after the midterms it looked like Brown would cakewalk to a 2nd term. Now it doesn't look so certain again unless things turn around into 1984.

[Blow by blow, the passion dies]

September 1, 1983: World shell-shocked after USSR shots down Korean civilian airliner, killing 269



Korean Air Lines Flight 007, scheduled from New York City to Seoul via Anchorage, was shot down by a Soviet fighter jet. Following an apparent navigational mistake made by the Boeing 747, the airliner deviated from its original planned route and flew through Soviet prohibited airspace around the time of a U.S. aerial reconnaissance mission. The Soviet Air Forces treated the unidentified aircraft as an intruding U.S. spy plane, and destroyed it with air-to-air missiles, after firing warning shots which were probably not seen by the pilots. The plane eventually crashed in the sea near Moneron Island west of Sakhalin in the Sea of Japan. All passengers and crew, 269, aboard were killed.

The Soviet government initially denied knowledge of the incident, but days later admitted shooting down the aircraft, claiming that it was a possible spy mission. Sources from within the Brown Administration claimed that the Shriver State Department issued not only a protest note, but also told the Soviet Ambassador during a secret meeting that the accusation was “completely false”. While not confirming such a meeting, a spokesman for the White House confirmed that Secretary Shriver sent diplomatic protest note. Later on, a source says that the ambassador told Shriver the military response was probably an error, confirming leaked US intel documents.


President Brown resists massive pressure to sanction Moscow, rejects proposals to close US air space for Soviet airlines



Although President Jerry Brown and members of his administration criticized the Soviet Union in the most starkest terms, the president on September 7 formally rejected calls to close American air space for civilian Soviet planes. “I understand the passions behind this, it would just not be a rational decision. And as president, I’m elected to make rational decisions”, the chief executive said, “it won’t bring back a single life that is lost. Way important is full transparency and my administration is prepared to take steps that will happen.” Asked by a reporter what measures he would take instead, the president declined.

A number of lawmakers including from his own party repeatedly called upon Brown to close US airspace for any Soviet airplanes and also demanded additional sanctions. The administration has resisted these calls, with Secretary of State Sargent Shriver saying this was not a time for “rushed actions” after a supposedly terrible accident. Following his statement, more than a dozen GOP congressmen called upon his resignation.


Presidential hopeful Paul Laxalt on the offensive: Brown is a “useful idiot for the Politburo”



Senator Paul Laxalt during first presidential rally in New Hampshire attacked President Brown for his response on Korean Air Lines Flight 007. “Hundreds of lives lost for nothing but Soviet warmongering, yet the president has nothing but empty words. The people will remember when they go to the polls”, the senator told supporters at a Concord rally. “I don’t like saying it, my friends, but we have approached a point in which the president of the United States is a useful idiot for the Politburo. It’s a sad and necessary conclusion after the most recent days.”

All other GOP contenders strongly attacked Brown as well, though Laxalt used the starkest terms among them.

Asked for a response on Laxalt's remarks, President Brown just said: "Why would I be surprised to hear this from a Republican officeseeker?"


Senator Lloyd Bentsen: Regrets among Democrats over not nominating me in 1980 soar, Brown allies fire back



Ever since losing the Democratic nomination to Brown, Senator Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX) remained a skeptic of the administration and has repeatedly opposed some Brown’s policies and nominees before the senate. During an exchange with a CBS reporter on September 8, Bentsen said that some of his Democratic colleagues in congress as well as a few governors, without mentioning names, told him they felt the party made a mistake by not nominating him in 1980. “They think we wouldn’t have had such an election drama in the first place, as I would have beaten Reagan outright. And more importantly, they say I would have been a superior president.” Asked whether he would consider to challenge the president in 1984, Bentsen denied and quickly changed subject. However, some observers claim that Bentsen is actually weighing his chances, especially once a new economic report is about to be published at the end of September, shortly after President Brown is expected to launch his official reelection campaign.

Senator Bentsen’s comments made some waves in DC, with Brown allies quickly coming to his defense. White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis dismissed the comments, even telling a reporter that the Texas senator was “way over his head.” Senator Geraldine Ferraro (D-NY) criticized her colleague: “The spirit of a teamplayer looks different. You’re not running from the president to prop up your own ambitions just because you think he’s wrong on a particular question. There are legitimate reasons to question his judgement on what happened on September 1, but Senator Bentsen needs to leave 1980 behind and help us win ’84.”


September 9, 1983: Transportation Secretary Ruckelshaus resigns in protest



The fallout from President Jerry Brown’s response to Korean Air Lines Flight 007 continues: Transportation Secretary William Ruckelshaus formally submitted his resignation in response of recent developments. “I have come to the difficult conclusion that I cannot continue to serve”, the statement reads in part.

Aside Energy Secretary John Anderson, Ruckelshaus was the only other Republican to serve at a cabinet-level position in the Brown Administration. Previously, he held other positions such as EPA Director during the presidencies of Nelson Rockefeller and Gerald Ford. In a formal statement, the White House regretted his decision. A timetable for a replacement was not given, only that President Brown would “swiftly submit a name to the senate for confirmation.”

An US Representative, Larry McDonald was aboard

[President Johnson]

snip

An US Representative, Larry McDonald was aboard

In reality, yes, but remember some things are different from reality in a TL.

[Blow by blow, the passion dies]

snip

An US Representative, Larry McDonald was aboard

In reality, yes, but remember some things are different from reality in a TL.

Macdonald would probably switch to the GOP

[OSR stands with Israel]

Is Bentsen potentially gonna try to primary President Brown

[Elcaspar]

Is Bentsen potentially gonna try to primary President Brown

I feel like it might end up being a reverse 1992 scenario. Bush was challenged by Buchanan, and Bentsen might potentially challenge Brown. Also the economic situation as well, albeit not as pronounced.

[Elcaspar]

Also i am loving the timeline! I just caught up with it recently, and i am looking forward to what is coming!

[President Johnson]

September 12, 1983

BREAKING: President Brown formally launches reelection bid in San Francisco



After weeks of preparations, the plain obvious was official now: President Jerry Brown formally announced his reelection bid. Joined by Vice President Carter, First Lady Linda Ronstadt and Second Lady Rosalyn Carter, the official kick-off rally of the Brown/Carter campaign was held in San Francisco. “Humbled by the honor to serve as your president, I am asking my fellow Americans to renew your trust and confidence in me and Vice President Carter as we seek to continue serving our great nation for another four years”, the president told a crowd of over 10,000. The chief executive highlighted his accomplishments in office, staying at peace, but remained relatively vague about his agenda. However, he explicitly talked about the failed healthcare bill and emphasized to try again after winning reelection. Vice President Carter said there was a great chance to make the 80s a decade of unprecedented progress during a second term. First Lady Linda Ronstadt called her husbands administration the “most transparent in history” and called for the need to reform federal aid to education.

Brown’s official kickoff comes after weeks of setbacks and bad press, especially with deteriorating relations to the USSR. His standing was further drag down by a weakening economic recovery. Brown campaign officials told some journalists attending that the campaign hopes to “turn things around” in the coming months. They also hope to shut down some noise around Senator Lloyd Bentsen, who recently stated some fellow Democrats urged him to run against Brown.


BONUS: President Jerry Brown and Vice President Jimmy Carter sit down for exclusive interview after launching reelection campaign





After a campaign stomp through California until September 16, President Jerry Brown and his running mate, Vice President Jimmy Carter, sat down for an exclusive interview with CBS’ own Dan Rather after returning to Washington DC on September 17. The broadcast reached over 25 million viewers. The interview took place in the Blue Room of the White House.

Dan Rather: Welcome to our program, Mr. President, welcome to you as well, Mr. Vice President. I’m delighted to have you here for an exclusive interview.

President Brown: Thank you, my pleasure. Welcome to the White House!

Vice President Carter: Thank you as well.

Dan Rather: Mr. President, it has been a rough couple of months, especially with our relations toward the Soviet Union. Opponents and even member of your own party heavily criticized your policies towards Moscow. Do you think that’s justified?

President Brown: Listen, Dan, what happened before the Soviet Ambassy a few months ago was horrible. More horrible than you could imagine. What happened with Korea Air Lines 007 was a tragedy of epic proportions. Intention is secondary at best. I understand all the passions, the anxiety and quite frankly the anger from it. I really do. Nonetheless, as president, it is my solemn responsibility to react with rational measures and not be guided by pure feelings. I’m in a position of major responsibility. Dealing with violations of the Soviets always require a careful evaluation of responses between necessary determination and recklessness. The line between them is sometimes very thin.

Dan Rather: But after all, you’re a human being.

President Brown: I can hardly describe how much these losses hurt me. And how frustrated I am. The attacks on me pretending I was somehow not caring are just political theater. I don’t intend to participate with this kind of stuff.

Vice President Carter: If I might add, the president is absolutely right. However, neither he nor I have any desire to respond to the attacks, especially from politicians who seek to run against us. We’re not using tragedies as political punching ball between different camps. These tragedies were American tragedies. As for the campaign, we need to focus on issues and real substances.

Dan Rather: We could continue talking about this, however, in light of limited time, I’d like to move to a more general question on foreign policy: Mr. President, how do you see our relationship with the USSR ongoing?

President Brown: It has always been a difficult relationship with some highs and many lows. We need to continue calling out their shameless violations of international law and human rights. And we need to make sure our own defense remains so strong and powerful that we can protect ourselves and our allies from Soviet expansion desires. Nonetheless, we always need to prioritize diplomacy instead of endless arms races and other confrontations. You see a number of successes here, especially with the cease fire between Iran and Iraq. I’m confident we can work out a lasting peace agreement in the coming months.




Dan Rather: You mentioned defense. The Republicans and some Democrats say you’re neglecting it. You vetoed the latest Defense Authorization Act and risked a government shutdown. You, Vice President Carter, said GOP lawmakers were unserious in their budget demands. What did you mean by that?

Vice President Carter: Dan, what I meant was, that the Republicans, aided by some of our Democratic friends, tried to deliberately send a bill the president only could veto. The Budget increase for the Pentagon was way over what the Department themselves asked for. We’ve managed to reduce the budget deficit every single year since taking office after the Ford Administration left a deficit of over 350 billion. We’re down to 100 billion. Not a single request from the Pentagon for new weaponry was denied under this administration.

President Brown: The vice president just said it. It was just another blatant attempt to play politics. I’m not here to do that.

Dan Rather: Mr. President, Americans would want to know about your second term agenda, especially here at home. You remained vague in your announcement speech this week. Can you tell our viewers more?

President Brown: We’re actively working on it and will release plans over the coming months. What I always said is that the healthcare law we could not pass, unfortunately, will be a priority. As New York shows, this can do so much good. Let’s fulfill what Roosevelt and Johnson begun. Another major item on my agenda is a tax reform that asks the upper incomes to pay slightly more, while middle class folks get a tax break. We got a smaller reform done in 1981, but we needed Republican support. I will also specify our energy independence plan and introduce a major reform for public lands to protect our environment. I’m also proposing a reform of the Labor Standards Act to protect workers, make it easier to form a union and repeal this goddamn awful Taft-Hartley-Bill.

Vice President Carter: One more thing: These measures the president just talked about, especially healthcare, are popular. But in order to get them done, we ask the people not only to give us a new mandate, we also ask everyone to support reform-minded candidates that support these plans. We need a robust alliance with enough lawmakers. We need the numbers to pass it. And we can get them.

Dan Rather: I’m sure we will hear more on that soon. I would like to move to the campaign itself. Obviously you’re not telling us about your preferred opponent.

Vice President Carter: (laughs) Of course not. But jokes aside, we just let the process at the other side play out its way.

Dan Rather: I’m sure you’re all aware of that ‘Draft Ford’ Campaign launched by David Rockefeller and other former officials. Former president Gerald Ford apparently wants to announce his decision whether to run or not at any time now. Looking at the polls, they paint a clear picture: While you’re neck-in-neck or leading potential GOP challengers, they also show Mr. Ford easily beating you. Is President Ford the opponent you most fear?

President Brown: We don’t “fear” anybody. We do take any competition seriously, however. No doubt about that. I’m fully aware of the campaign initiated by Mr. Rockefeller and his allies. Whether the former president throws his hat into the ring is solely upon him and his family. What I do believe is that his current poll numbers reflect that he is broadly popular as an elder statesman figure. Whether that would hold in a feisty campaign? You tell me? What I can say is that I have a lot of personal respect for President Ford and his family. Should he reengage into the political process by running, I will gladly point out our differences in policies. Just as with any other opponent. I stand by my record.

Dan Rather: Alright, one final question to both of you: Imagine it’s January 20, 1985, the day your second terms begin. You’ve just won another four years in this building. Whose attendance would you value the most? Please name someone who’s not a family member?

President Brown: Robert Kennedy. He has always been a great inspiration to me in all the roles he has held over the years. A true champion for ordinary Americans.

Vice President Carter: Coretta Scott King. She’s done incredible work over the last few years as I met her at home in Georgia.

President Brown: By the way, we have legislation discussed to make Dr. King’s birthday a federal holiday. I again urge congress to send this bill to my desk, I’ll gladly sign it right away.

Dan Rather: Thanks to both of you. A great honor. See you soon.

[Blow by blow, the passion dies]

September 12, 1983

BREAKING: President Brown formally launches reelection bid in San Francisco



After weeks of preparations, the plain obvious was official now: President Jerry Brown formally announced his reelection bid. Joined by Vice President Carter, First Lady Linda Ronstadt and Second Lady Rosalyn Carter, the official kick-off rally of the Brown/Carter campaign was held in San Francisco. “Humbled by the honor to serve as your president, I am asking my fellow Americans to renew your trust and confidence in me and Vice President Carter as we seek to continue serving our great nation for another four years”, the president told a crowd of over 10,000. The chief executive highlighted his accomplishments in office, staying at peace, but remained relatively vague about his agenda. However, he explicitly talked about the failed healthcare bill and emphasized to try again after winning reelection. Vice President Carter said there was a great chance to make the 80s a decade of unprecedented progress during a second term. First Lady Linda Ronstadt called her husbands administration the “most transparent in history” and called for the need to reform federal aid to education.

Brown’s official kickoff comes after weeks of setbacks and bad press, especially with deteriorating relations to the USSR. His standing was further drag down by a weakening economic recovery. Brown campaign officials told some journalists attending that the campaign hopes to “turn things around” in the coming months. They also hope to shut down some noise around Senator Lloyd Bentsen, who recently stated some fellow Democrats urged him to run against Brown.


BONUS: President Jerry Brown and Vice President Jimmy Carter sit down for exclusive interview after launching reelection campaign





After a campaign stomp through California until September 16, President Jerry Brown and his running mate, Vice President Jimmy Carter, sat down for an exclusive interview with CBS’ own Dan Rather after returning to Washington DC on September 17. The broadcast reached over 25 million viewers. The interview took place in the Blue Room of the White House.

Dan Rather: Welcome to our program, Mr. President, welcome to you as well, Mr. Vice President. I’m delighted to have you here for an exclusive interview.

President Brown: Thank you, my pleasure. Welcome to the White House!

Vice President Carter: Thank you as well.

Dan Rather: Mr. President, it has been a rough couple of months, especially with our relations toward the Soviet Union. Opponents and even member of your own party heavily criticized your policies towards Moscow. Do you think that’s justified?

President Brown: Listen, Dan, what happened before the Soviet Ambassy a few months ago was horrible. More horrible than you could imagine. What happened with Korea Air Lines 007 was a tragedy of epic proportions. Intention is secondary at best. I understand all the passions, the anxiety and quite frankly the anger from it. I really do. Nonetheless, as president, it is my solemn responsibility to react with rational measures and not be guided by pure feelings. I’m in a position of major responsibility. Dealing with violations of the Soviets always require a careful evaluation of responses between necessary determination and recklessness. The line between them is sometimes very thin.

Dan Rather: But after all, you’re a human being.

President Brown: I can hardly describe how much these losses hurt me. And how frustrated I am. The attacks on me pretending I was somehow not caring are just political theater. I don’t intend to participate with this kind of stuff.

Vice President Carter: If I might add, the president is absolutely right. However, neither he nor I have any desire to respond to the attacks, especially from politicians who seek to run against us. We’re not using tragedies as political punching ball between different camps. These tragedies were American tragedies. As for the campaign, we need to focus on issues and real substances.

Dan Rather: We could continue talking about this, however, in light of limited time, I’d like to move to a more general question on foreign policy: Mr. President, how do you see our relationship with the USSR ongoing?

President Brown: It has always been a difficult relationship with some highs and many lows. We need to continue calling out their shameless violations of international law and human rights. And we need to make sure our own defense remains so strong and powerful that we can protect ourselves and our allies from Soviet expansion desires. Nonetheless, we always need to prioritize diplomacy instead of endless arms races and other confrontations. You see a number of successes here, especially with the cease fire between Iran and Iraq. I’m confident we can work out a lasting peace agreement in the coming months.




Dan Rather: You mentioned defense. The Republicans and some Democrats say you’re neglecting it. You vetoed the latest Defense Authorization Act and risked a government shutdown. You, Vice President Carter, said GOP lawmakers were unserious in their budget demands. What did you mean by that?

Vice President Carter: Dan, what I meant was, that the Republicans, aided by some of our Democratic friends, tried to deliberately send a bill the president only could veto. The Budget increase for the Pentagon was way over what the Department themselves asked for. We’ve managed to reduce the budget deficit every single year since taking office after the Ford Administration left a deficit of over 350 billion. We’re down to 100 billion. Not a single request from the Pentagon for new weaponry was denied under this administration.

President Brown: The vice president just said it. It was just another blatant attempt to play politics. I’m not here to do that.

Dan Rather: Mr. President, Americans would want to know about your second term agenda, especially here at home. You remained vague in your announcement speech this week. Can you tell our viewers more?

President Brown: We’re actively working on it and will release plans over the coming months. What I always said is that the healthcare law we could not pass, unfortunately, will be a priority. As New York shows, this can do so much good. Let’s fulfill what Roosevelt and Johnson begun. Another major item on my agenda is a tax reform that asks the upper incomes to pay slightly more, while middle class folks get a tax break. We got a smaller reform done in 1981, but we needed Republican support. I will also specify our energy independence plan and introduce a major reform for public lands to protect our environment. I’m also proposing a reform of the Labor Standards Act to protect workers, make it easier to form a union and repeal this goddamn awful Taft-Hartley-Bill.

Vice President Carter: One more thing: These measures the president just talked about, especially healthcare, are popular. But in order to get them done, we ask the people not only to give us a new mandate, we also ask everyone to support reform-minded candidates that support these plans. We need a robust alliance with enough lawmakers. We need the numbers to pass it. And we can get them.

Dan Rather: I’m sure we will hear more on that soon. I would like to move to the campaign itself. Obviously you’re not telling us about your preferred opponent.

Vice President Carter: (laughs) Of course not. But jokes aside, we just let the process at the other side play out its way.

Dan Rather: I’m sure you’re all aware of that ‘Draft Ford’ Campaign launched by David Rockefeller and other former officials. Former president Gerald Ford apparently wants to announce his decision whether to run or not at any time now. Looking at the polls, they paint a clear picture: While you’re neck-in-neck or leading potential GOP challengers, they also show Mr. Ford easily beating you. Is President Ford the opponent you most fear?

President Brown: We don’t “fear” anybody. We do take any competition seriously, however. No doubt about that. I’m fully aware of the campaign initiated by Mr. Rockefeller and his allies. Whether the former president throws his hat into the ring is solely upon him and his family. What I do believe is that his current poll numbers reflect that he is broadly popular as an elder statesman figure. Whether that would hold in a feisty campaign? You tell me? What I can say is that I have a lot of personal respect for President Ford and his family. Should he reengage into the political process by running, I will gladly point out our differences in policies. Just as with any other opponent. I stand by my record.

Dan Rather: Alright, one final question to both of you: Imagine it’s January 20, 1985, the day your second terms begin. You’ve just won another four years in this building. Whose attendance would you value the most? Please name someone who’s not a family member?

President Brown: Robert Kennedy. He has always been a great inspiration to me in all the roles he has held over the years. A true champion for ordinary Americans.

Vice President Carter: Coretta Scott King. She’s done incredible work over the last few years as I met her at home in Georgia.

President Brown: By the way, we have legislation discussed to make Dr. King’s birthday a federal holiday. I again urge congress to send this bill to my desk, I’ll gladly sign it right away.

Dan Rather: Thanks to both of you. A great honor. See you soon.

Loving your timeline. I hope you continue up to 2020, with breaks if possible

[President Johnson]

snip

Loving your timeline. I hope you continue up to 2020, with breaks if possible

Thanks! I actually intend to do that and even have a list of presidents in mind, though not all of them super liberal. I won't reveal much more though