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WETA "LAWMAKERS" 2/03/1983 IN 08.03.50-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence 08.04.44-PAUL DUKE/COKIE ROBERTS/LINDA WERTHEIMER-on program-REAGAN'S BUDGET PROPOSAL lands on Capitol Hill, almost everyone wants to change it. This budget is more pragmatic than REAGAN'S past efforts. Also, HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE starts picking at the SOCIAL SECURITY COMMISSION PROPOSAL. 08.05.38-M/S ALAN GREENSPAN testifying to House Committee advocating SOCIAL SECURITY COMMISSION PROPOSAL. Says the government's response to SOCIAL SECURITY is a key marker to the U.S. and international financial communities of how the U.S. government will deal with economic crisis. C/S Rep. CLAUDE PEPPER in office, says the plan isn't perfect, but it's the best plan with a chance to succeed. M/S Sen. BILL ARMSTRONG speaking to audience of SENIOR CITIZENS, says the Commission's recommendations won't solve the problem of the shortfall of funds, objects to TAX INCREASES to finance SOCIAL SECURITY. Shots of audience at AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED PERSONS meeting. Sen. ARMSTRONG pledges to amend the proposal. 08.07.35-shots of ELDERLY in audience. ROBERTS v.o.-ARMSTRONG'S bill is likely to be the opposite of what ELDERLY want. C/S Dr. PAUL KERSHCNER, official of AARP, says the group works with many legislators, but they don't speak for the group. AARP wants to raise revenues aside from PAYROLL TAXES, and don't want BENEFITS to be CUT. Shot of AARP letterhead. C/S KERSCHNER, says AARP isn't out to defeat the Commission report, but to defend the income of ELDERLY, who have tightened belts as far as they can. ROBERTS v.o.-FEDERAL EMPLOYEES don't like the idea of being included in SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM. C/S JAMES PIERCE, Pres. Nat'l Fed. Of Federal Employees, says the proposal sounds good on paper, but FEDERAL EMPLOYEES are less than 2% of the national workforce, how can that part of the plan really help SOCIAL SECURITY. 08.09.16-Wide shot of HOUSE CHAMBER during STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS. C/S REAGAN, praises the report of the SOCIAL SECURITY COMMISSION, asks CONGRESS to pass it into law. C/S Sen. ARMSTRONG concedes that support by TIP O'NEILL and REAGAN means the proposal will probably pass, but he is still going to try to change it. C/S AARP director, says that AARP is going to fight to change the plan because they believe that they represent the interests of all SENIOR CITIZENS. C/S PIERCE says that FEDERAL EMPLOYEES want to emphasize that including FEDERAL EMPLOYEES won't solve SOCIAL SECURITY'S problems. ROBERTS v.o.-opposition by such groups usually kills less significant legislation. Shots of hearing of HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE. C/S Rep. GUY VANDER JAGT (R-MI) asking Social Security Commissioners if a consensus could be built around an alternate plan should this one fail. M/S commissioner ALEXANDER TROWBRIDGE, says he doubts that an alternative could be pushed through. 08.11.08-DUKE/ROBERTS-discussion of the lobbing efforts likely to ensue against the plan against expectations the bill will sail through committee to House vote. Still doubt about long-term solutions to SOCIAL SECURITY. DUKE-REAGAN sends BUDGET for 1984 to Congress. WERTHEIMER-REAGAN seemed to be conciliatory in STATE OF THE UNION, but his budget looked confrontational to Congress.
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08.12.14-M/S DAVID STOCKMAN (REAGAN'S SUPPLY-SIDE BUDGET GURU) taking seat for SENATE COMMITTEE hearing. V.o.-Senators don't like DOMESTIC CUTS, DEFENSE INCREASES, PROVISIONAL TAX INCREASE, and HUGE DEFICITS FOR YEARS TO COME. C/S Sen. BENNETT JOHNSTON (D-LA) says the DEFICIT is unacceptable. Sen. HOWARD METZENBAUM (D-OH) says the BUDGET is unfair and out of touch with America. Sen. JAMES SASSER (D-TN) remarks that DEMOCRATS weren't consulted about the budget, and now that REAGAN has proposed a bad BUDGET he wants to invite DEMOCRATS to share the blame. C/S Sen. STEVEN SIMMS (R-ID), says the DEFICIT is too big, more cuts needed. C/S PETE DOMENICI (R-NM, a supporter of the budget), says that SIMMS seems to think that $580 BILLION in DEFICIT REDUCTION over five years isn't adequate. 08.14.43-C/S DAVID STOCKMAN testifying that the BUDGET can't be changed too drastically by any consensus. Shots of audience at hearing, DEMOCRATS on panel. Sen. JOHNSTON notes the irony of REAGAN'S advocacy in 1982 of BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT, asks what STOCKMAN would do if he had to balance this budget. STOCKMAN weaselly says that he still thinks BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT is a good idea, but since it's not there, he doesn't want to speculate on how it could be balanced. Sen. JOHNSTON says REAGAN ADMINISTRATION can't have it both ways, advocating Balanced Budgets and then proposing DEFICIT BUDGETS. Sen. DOMENICI notes rather sarcastically that he's looking forward to JOHNSTON'S balanced budget proposal. C/S STOCKMAN, concedes that DEFENSE is a big part of the DEFICIT, but says it's not the whole cause. 08.16.45-DUKE-Discussion of DEFENSE BUDGET as a target for cuts. CASPAR WEINBERGER came to the Hill to pitch the PENTAGON'S BLOATED BUDGET to the Senate Armed Services Committee. M/S WEINBERGER joined by Chair of JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF JOHN VESSEY at witness table. C/S Sen. JOHN TOWER (R-TX), lays it on thick about "preserving freedom". Ridicules idea that DOMESTIC SPENDING CUTS should be matched by DEFENSE SPENDING CUTS. Sen. JOHN WARNER (R-VA), says Congress is going to cut DEFENSE SPENDING and WEINBERGER better get used to it. C/S WEINBERGER listening. C/S Sen. DAN QUAYLE says the DOMESTIC ECONOMY requires DEFENSE CUTS. 08.18.30-C/S Sen. CARL LEVIN (D-MI) says the issue is clearly not whether to cut DEFENSE, but what to cut. C/S WEINBERGER testifying, ridiculing people who want to cut DEFENSE, says it can't be cut more without "undermining national security", (don't take away my new toys, mommy can I have a new MX missile, please)? C/S QUAYLE challenges General VESSEY to give Congress input on where to cut, assuming cuts are inevitable, so Congress can ensure the best DEFENSE for the money. VESSEY says that he doesn't want any cuts to be made. C/S Sen. TED KENNEDY, says he's concerned about the economy and Domestic spending cuts, Congress wants to spend only what is necessary for effective defense, and not more. WEINBERGER says that DETERRENCE will be hurt by more cuts, the U.S is at risk of attack by SOVIET UNION, etc. etc.
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08.21.57-DUKE-WEINBERGER got chewed out by the SENATE BUDGET COMMITTEE also. HOWARD BAKER has said that the Administration is not being reasonable about working with Congress on compromises. ROBERTS-PENTAGON starting to get the message that compromise might be necessary. Administration also starting to compromise on JOBS PROGRAM. WERTHEIMER-discussion of DEFICITS as a problem, now business groups are starting to lobby for DEFICIT MEASURES different from REAGAN'S ideas. DOMESTIC SPENDING seems to be at rock bottom and unlikely to be cut further. DUKE-the biggest issue of the week was not the BUDGET but the victory of the WASHINGTON REDSKINS in the SUPER BOWL. 08.24.55-Shot of a somewhat DRUNK Sen. JOHN WARNER (R-VA) and a somewhat DITZY Sen. PAULA HAWKINS (R-FL), HAWKINS wearing a REDSKINS jersey, WARNER says that HAWKINS lost a bet and had to ride in the VICTORY PARADE in the rain. Jokes that now HAWKINS is "one of the boys". Shot of JACK KEMP in crowd at REDSKINS victory celebration, a celebrant in a team jersey with gigantic papier-maiche hog's head. Stills of KEMP as quarterback of BUFFALO BILLS in '60's. C/S KEMP in office, says ups and downs of football career prepared him for unpopularity in politics. KEMP says he is taking a pounding over his crackpot SUPPLY-SIDE theories, similar to getting undue credit for victory and undue blame for defeat as a quarterback. 08.26.52-DUKE-says KEMP is interested in Presidency if REAGAN doesn't want to run. Sen. ALAN CRANSTON (R-CA) first of expected DEMOCRATS to announce for President in 1984. Intro commentary. Commentary by OTIS PIKE about CREDIBILITY of Congress-Much of congress' respectability is a sham. 08.29.17-DUKE-signs off Closing Credits/transcript order information/WETA credit/sponsor credits/PBS ID 08.31.37-OUT
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WETA "LAWMAKERS" 2/10/1982 IN 20.00.00-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence 20.00.55-PAUL DUKE/COKIE ROBERTS/LINDA WERTHEIMER-Congress and REAGAN ADMINISTRATION continue to feel out the possibilities of compromise on budgets, jobs programs, and tax policy. ROBERTS-may be a breakthrough on JOBS PROGRAMS, with TIP O'NEILL meeting with White House staff. WERTHEIMER-Rep. MO UDALL (D-AZ) announces he won't run for Presidency. DUKE-Senate FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMITTEE addressing the nomination for ARMS CONTROL chief of KENNETH ADELMAN. 20.02.15-Shot of chamber of FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMITTEE hearing. C/S Sen. CHARLES PERCY (R-IL), says the hearings will address ADELMAN'S experience and qualifications for the post and whether ADELMAN has a genuine commitment to ARMS CONTROL. C/S Sen. ALAN CRANSTON (D-CA), says none of the REAGAN ADMINISTRATION has training in STRATEGIC ARMS MATTERS. Sen. PAUL TSONGAS (D-MA) says ADELMAN'S writings don't suggest much passion for controlling the ARMS RACE. C/S ADELMAN listening to question by CRANSTON. ADELMAN says he's not knowledgeable nor has he investigated whether the USSR is violating SALT II. Sen. RUDY BOSCHWITZ (R-MN) expresses disbelief at this statement. ADELMAN repeats that he doesn't have a position on the issue. 08.04.32-DUKE-almost every Senator disappointed in ADELMAN'S performance. When ADELMAN returned for more questioning, the ADMINISTRATION tried to get him to be more responsive and engaged. 20.05.10-Sen. PERCY, says the committee won't vote on confirmation until it gets answers. C/S ADELMAN says he's troubled by insinuations that he's unaware of the issue, says he was just being "overly cautious" last week. C/S Sen. CLAIBORNE PELL (D-RI), says ADELMAN didn't demonstrate substantive knowledge of the issues at stake, many Senators have deep reservations. C/S Sen. JOE BIDEN (D-DE), says Senate has concerns about REAGAN'S attitude toward ARMS CONTROL and by extension concerns about ADELMAN'S ability and commitment. Sen. RICHARD LUGAR (R-IN) suggests that Senators are using the hearings to send message to REAGAN. 20.07.06-C/S ADELMAN. C/S Sen. PERCY, asks if "limited" nuclear war is possible. ADELMAN says it's not likely. ADELMAN says there's no evidence that USSR has violated SALT II. Sen. TSONGAS asks ADELMAN to explain why his answers this week are so much more complete than last week, suggests credibility is lacking. ADELMAN says he was just too cautious last week, TSONGAS points out the absurdity of the turnaround. C/S ADELMAN, gives unconvincing answer that REAGAN'S staff hasn't briefed him on the issues before week 2 of hearings. C/S Sen. BOSCHWITZ suggests that ADELMAN must have been briefed by Administration. C/S Sen. BIDEN, says he's still undecided but ADELMAN has improved his performance in the second session. C/S PERCY says he's pleased with second hearing.
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WETA "LAWMAKERS" 2/18/1983 IN 16.01.50-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence 16.02.43-PAUL DUKE/LINDA WERTHEIMER/COKIE ROBERTS-DUKE-REAGAN and CONGRESS on different agendas over spending and Arms Control. ROBERTS-Controversy over the ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY, with six different Committees of Congress investigating the agency. WERTHEIMER-BANKING LOBBY fighting TAX REFORM calling for automatic withholding of income tax from INTEREST and DIVIDEND income. DUKE-CASPAR WEINBERGER returns to Capitol Hill to fight against HOUSE CUTS IN DEFENSE BUDGET. Sen. SAM NUNN (D-GA) a key player. 16.04.16-C/S of colleagues of Sen. NUNN discussing his involvement in DEFENSE, joking about his lack of charisma. C/S NUNN, shots of a banquet audience where the colleagues are making friendly jokes about him. Shot of small airplane on runway. C/S group of AIR FORCE BRASS greeting NUNN'S arrival at MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia. M/S F-4 jet fighter taxiing on runway. NUNN-the South since "the war between the states" has been more conscious of defense matters, more interest in the military. C/S NUNN with group of soldiers. C/S Former Sen. HERMAN TALMADGE (D-GA), says SOUTHERNERS are highly patriotic, Georgians are always willing to stand up for defense. 16.06.47-C/S Bert Lance, former aide to Jimmy Carter, says SOUTHERNERS are the only people in the U.S. to have lost a war, understand the need to be prepared. Drive-by of lot of military base with jeeps and trucks. DUKE v.o.-the DEFENSE INDUSTRY is central to GEORGIA'S economy. M/S NUNN in ceremonial groundbreaking for new military base, applauded by group of troops. Stills of NUNN from his childhood, in Boy Scout uniform, as high school basketball player, in Coast Guard uniform. Old film of NUNN in his first U.S. SENATE CAMPAIGN, shaking hands. C/S Sen. JOHN STENNIS (D-MS) in office, says NUNN had a good reputation before he arrived in Washington. Shot follows NUNN walking down sidewalk. Shot of large group of flag-waving spectators, shots of former Rep. CARL VINSON, NUNN'S great uncle. 16.08.40-C/S NEWT GINGRICH in office, says NUNN has VINSON'S savvy about DEFENSE LEGISLATION. C/S NUNN in office, says he thinks people stopped thinking about defense after VIETNAM, security was at risk. Shots of NUNN in 1979 SENATE COMMITTEE HEARING over SALT II TREATY, arguing that SOCIAL WELFARE SPENDING has gone up while DEFENSE SPENDING has fallen. Witness AL HAIG says it's true. DUKE v.o.-NUNN'S growing influence often hurt JIMMY CARTER. C/S Carter aide, says REAGAN would do well to consult with NUNN on defense issues since NUNN is so influential.
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20.10.14-DUKE-ADELMAN nomination is expected to clear committee. Discussion of pressure for JOBS PROGRAM. 20.10.43-ROBERTS with Rep. TOM FOLEY in office, discussion of JOBS PROGRAM. Very important for DEMOCRATS to take initiative to force WHITE HOUSE to take action to actually provide jobs. The JOBS BILL is not "make-work" program. There is a need for PUBLIC WORKS to be done. Discussion of scope of different proposals. FOLEY says there's certainly NEED for $68 BILLION program, but in practical reality, may have to settle for less. FOLEY says he has to get a JOBS PROGRAM together that can pass to get something done. Need to keep the bill responsible and limited. FOLEY-there is a need to start soon so that JOBS come before the RECOVERY. FOLEY says DEMOCRATS will look bad if there is a recovery before the JOBS PROGRAM takes effect, but they are willing to take that risk now since there isn't any recovery in sight. 20.14.30-DUKE/ROBERTS-TIP O'NEILL enthusiastic about chances for compromise with REAGAN, discussion of WHITE HOUSE plan for limited, public works JOBS PROGRAM versus HOUSE plan for PUBLIC SERVICE jobs which would include more WOMEN and different demographic groups. WERTHEIMER-REAGAN has gotten the message that the public wants Government to take action to create JOBS and that Congress was going to do it anyway. 20.16.22-DUKE-race for DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATION is underway, but Rep. MORRIS UDALL (D-AZ) bucked a trend to announce he isn't running. Sen. CRANSTON is only declared DEMOCRAT. WERTHEIMER-most observers say CRANSTON has no chance, but he's going to make the most of it anyway. 20.17.03-Shots of SENATE CAUCUS ROOM, CRANSTON with supporters, at podium announcing candidacy. Shot of "NEW HAMPSHIRE WELCOMES SENATOR CRANSTON" sign. CRANSTON at a podium, announcing to New Hampshire. CRANSTON acknowledges that he doesn't have the "name recognition" of MONDALE or JOHN GLENN, but makes light of their fame, associating MONDALE with JIMMY CARTER. WERTHEIMER v.o.-also concerns about CRANSTON'S AGE, would be older than REAGAN was in 1980. Clip of Campaign Film (?-definite propaganda slant) of CRANSTON in red, white, blue USA track suit running laps at a fast pace. Shot of CRANSTON on committee. C/S CRANSTON in office, says he's the most experienced candidate in legislation and has military and executive branch experience his opponents lack. Says that REAGAN just has charisma, the public wants experience. C/S CRANSTON in committee, arguing that REAGAN'S NUCLEAR ARMS POLICY is insane, argues for NUCLEAR FREEZE plan. 20.20.18-C/S Sen. MARK HATFIELD, shot of film showing disfigured survivors of HIROSHIMA bombing, part of forum co-sponsored by CRANSTON. C/S CRANSTON in office, says he is "the peace candidate". Shot of CRANSTON on committee, interrogating KEN ADELMAN, REAGAN'S nominee for ARMS CONTROL chief. CRANSTON says ADELMAN has no strong opinions on ARMS CONTROL, doesn't take the issue seriously. C/S CRANSTON in office, says he's distinct among candidates by his total commitment to ending the insanity of the ARMS RACE. Shot of vocal CRANSTON supporters at CALIFORNIA STATE DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION. WERTHEIMER v.o.-his CALIFORNIA base is a major electoral bloc already in CRANSTON'S corner for the nomination. Shot of singer KENNY LOGGINS endorsing CRANSTON at the convention, starts in on a song. 20.22.35-Shots of worker in CRANSTON campaign offices, answering phone, taking a pledge, using computers. C/S Sen. HOWARD BAKER in office, says he's not sure if an active SENATOR has time or energy to run for PRESIDENCY. C/S CRANSTON in office, says he refuses to be "unemployed" to campaign. 20.23.51-DUKE-intro commentary. Commentary by OTIS PIKE on CRANSTON CANDIDACY. Notes that the SENATE is a perfect venue for GRANDSTANDING and CRANSTON'S position of leadership gives him a great chance to introduce legislation, discussion of the bills CRANSTON introduced to appeal to different constituencies. 20.26.19-DUKE-signs off Closing credits/transcript order information/WETA credit/sponsor credits/PBS ID 20.27.54--OUT
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16.10.37-C/S NUNN in office, says he agrees with REAGAN in "making DEFENSE the number one priority", but he thinks the buildup should be gradual. C/S GINGRICH in office, says REAGAN'S defense plan is "intellectually inadequate", NUNN'S arguments are a major influence. Shot of NUNN in committee meeting with PENTAGON BRASS. DUKE v.o.-NUNN has pushed to make the PENTAGON more accountable to Congress for spending. NUNN in office, says there must be a master plan for defense, REAGAN is trying to implement too many programs at once [B-1, Stealth Bomber, MX missile, Trident Submarine, cruise missiles, etc. etc. etc.]. C/S CASPAR WEINBERGER in Senate Committee hearing, NUNN heard to question him, C/S NUNN, WEINBERGER says he would not advise REAGAN to call off the TAX CUT even if DEFENSE SPENDING was in jeopardy. 16.12.44-C/S former Carter Aide, says that when NUNN talks about DEFENSE, people listen. C/S former Sen. JOHN CULVER, says NUNN influences his colleagues votes. C/S NUNN, says he's no expert, but he'll take praise if people offer it. Shots of a Senate Staff BASKETBALL GAME, NUNN hitting a jump shot. C/S HERMAN TALMADGE, says NUNN is a "work horse", not a "show horse" in Senate. M/S NUNN at desk. 16.14.40-M/S WALTER MONDALE at a podium speaking, attacks REAGAN'S DEFENSE strategy, says that DEMOCRATS like JOHN GLENN and SAM NUNN should be in charge of making DEFENSE POLICY. Shots of delegates at a DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION. DUKE v.o.-many DEMOCRATS think NUNN is too conservative and not much of a "team player" in the party. C/S NUNN in office, says he is conservative and cautious, wants his record to be solid rather than based on grandstanding in the media. C/S GINGRICH praises NUNN. C/S Sen. JOHN STENNIS praising NUNN. 16.16.09-DUKE-some consider NUNN a potential candidate for PRESIDENCY. Discussion with ROBERTS about NUNN'S clout in Congress. ROBERTS intro report on Congress interrogating ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY head ANNE GORSUCH over the agency's practices and lack of prosecution for pollution crimes, possible Destruction of documents by the EPA to hinder a Congressional investigation of EPA. Discussion of EPA'S slack track record of enforcement under REAGAN. WERTHEIMER-REAGAN'S choice to head the ARMS CONTROL AND DISARMAMENT AGENCY is under attack for being uninformed and uncommitted to ARMS CONTROL. Discussion.
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DUKE-intro report on BANK LOBBYING EFFORT to fight automatic TAX WITHOLDING on INTEREST. 16.19.28-C/S Sen. ROBERT KASTEN (R-WI), says the volume of mail is huge over the issue. Shots of letters being sorted by a congressional staffer. Shots of session of SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE, including BOB DOLE. C/S Sen. DAVID DURENBERGER (R-MN), says its important to collect taxes on people with large interest and dividend incomes to make TAX SYSTEM fair. C/S KASTEN, says the bill is unfair to people who save. M/S KASTEN speaking to audience from SAVINGS AND LOAN INDUSTRY, shots of S/L managers in audience. WERTHEIMER v.o.-bankers urging account holders to write their congressmen to get the law repealed. C/S a credit union manager describing the industry letter-writing campaign. C/S Sen. DURENBERGER, says it's the same thing for INTEREST and DIVIDENDS as it is for wage income, only fair. Sen. KASTEN says the bill is frightening, will hurt savers. Shots of mass of mail in DURENBERGER'S office, C/S DURENBERGER, says he's sympathetic to the people who are writing, but he thinks the BANKS are manipulating the people and not telling them the whole story. 16.24.15-C/S Sen. KASTEN, says the pressure of a massive letter campaign can have an effect. C/S DURENBERGER, says that many Senators will be swayed by the pressure, in this case it's unfortunate. 16.25.09-DUKE/WERTHEIMER, discussion of the banking lobby effort, it may be backfiring on the banks. Shots of BOB DOLE speaking to BANKING industry lunch, DOLE angry at bankers for their campaigns. DUKE/WERTHEIMER discussion of issue. DOLE feels that banks have acted in bad faith after many favors from Congress. DUKE-Sen. GARY HART (D-CO) announced for the 1984 PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN. Intro commentary. 16.27.16-Commentary by Charles McDowell, on Rep. MORRIS UDALL'S (D-AZ) decision not to run for President. Says UDALL keeps threatening to "give politics a good name", it's a shame he won't run for president. Notes UDALL'S sense of humor. 16.28.53-DUKE-signs off. Closing credits/transcript order information/WETA credit/sponsor credits/PBS ID 16.29.48-OUT
Lawmakers - 2/24/1983
Lawmakers - 2/24/1983
Lawmakers - 2/24/1983
Lawmakers - 2/24/1983
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WETA "LAWMAKERS" 3/03/1983 IN 16.02.12-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence. 16.03.06-PAUL DUKE/COKIE ROBERTS/LINDA WERTHEIMER-the ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY, SOCIAL SECURITY, and the ECONOMY at heart of CONGRESSIONAL AGENDA for the week. WERTHEIMER-a bill for SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM passed the HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE with only three dissenting votes and moves to a floor vote. ROBERTS intro profile of JIM WRIGHT, (D-TX, House Majority Leader). 16.04.27-Shots of a fundraiser luncheon for JIM WRIGHT, Texas barbecue style. C/S WRIGHT discoursing on the range-riding origins of the barbecue. Shots of diners loading up on barbecue. Shots of WRIGHT gladhanding. A former Congressman marvels at WRIGHT'S ability to shake hands with everyone in the crowd. Shot of WRIGHT holding a harmonica, talks about learning to play from hoboes in a "Hooverville" in the Depression, starts to play. M/S of WRIGHT taking podium to play a c+w tune on the harmonica. C/S of two young boys (7 and 5 years?), say that WRIGHT is the boss of the DEMOCRATS in Congress. 16.07.14-M/S front of House chamber, O'NEILL giving floor to WRIGHT, C/S WRIGHT in well, taking the speaker's seat. C/S WRIGHT, says he took job thinking a majority leader should be "part parish priest, part evangelist, part prophet" to take care of business. M/S WRIGHT in meeting of new DEMOCRATS. C/S Rep. MICKEY LELAND (D-TX), says when he came to Congress WRIGHT'S accessibility and cordiality made a big impression on him, it's important to getting freshmen to act decisively. M/S of SPEAKER O'NEILL'S office, WRIGHT, TOM FOLEY, and O'NEILL. C/S WRIGHT in office, says he has to bridge many divides among DEMOCRATS to be an effective leader. 16.10.10-C/S Rep. CHARLES STENHOLM (D-TX), says WRIGHT manages to aggravate almost everyone in the party at some point. WRIGHT in office, says that this is part of the job. Tells anecdote about raising pheasants in his youth, says he feels like the hen trying to corral and control the young pheasants. Shot of meeting of CONSERVATIVE DEMOCRATS including PHIL GRAMM and CHARLES STENHOLM. ROBERTS v.o.-DEMOCRATS from WRIGHT'S own region broke from the party coalition in the last Congress to support REAGANOMICS. C/S WRIGHT in well of House, WRIGHT arguing that REAGAN is exceeding his rights to bully the Congress to support his plans. C/S WRIGHT in office, says 1981 was hard year, if he thought every year would be like that, he'd quit. C/S Rep. ROBERT MICHEL (minority leader) in office, says the DEMOCRATIC defeats of the last congress weren't WRIGHT'S fault, all the votes were closely contested.
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16.12.49-M/S WRIGHT at outdoor press conference, jokes that he will welcome back all prodigal DEMOCRATS who voted for REAGANOMICS. C/S PHIL GRAMM on BUDGET COMMITTEE panel, C/S JACK KEMP. ROBERTS v.o.-GRAMM'S defection to the REAGANOMICS side hurt WRIGHT, because GRAMM won his committee assignment with WRIGHT'S assistance, maybe hurt WRIGHT'S chances to become SPEAKER. Split screen of TIP O'NEILL swearing in PHIL GRAMM to Congress after GRAMM won a special election as a REPUBLICAN. C/S former Rep. RICHARD BOLLING in office, says GRAMM'S defection hurts WRIGHT. Rep. MICHEL says that WRIGHT did his best with a difficult situation with GRAMM. C/S WRIGHT in office, says he may have used poor judgement in sponsoring such a CONSERVATIVE as GRAMM to a place of PARTY LEADERSHIP. Shots of WRIGHT greeting supporters in Texas, speaking at Campaign rally in Texas. Aerial of downtown FORT WORTH, showing new skyscrapers. 16.15.26-Shots of GENERAL DYNAMICS assembly plant, workers building airframes of F-16 fighters. ROBERTS v.o.-WRIGHT'S district gets as much DEFENSE CONTRACTING as any in the nation, and no TEXAS congressman can work against the OIL INDUSTRY for long. Shots of WRIGHT shaking hands with supporters. ROBERTS v.o.-most agree that WRIGHT does well at staying in touch with the people of the district. C/S RICHARD BOLLING in office, says WRIGHT has done a good job, especially since TEXAS politics are generally so much more CONSERVATIVE than the rest of the country. C/S Rep. CHARLES STENHOLM (D-TX) in office, says WRIGHT is not popular in STENHOLM'S district. C/S Rep. MICKEY LELAND (D-TX) says WRIGHT is well-liked in LELAND'S district. WRIGHT in office, says DEMOCRATIC PARTY in TEXAS is home to all political outlooks, from LELAND on the left to STENHOLM on the right. 16.17.28-Clip of 1976 "MacNeill Report" show, with DEMOCRATIC leadership contenders for position of MAJORITY LEADER. JIM LEHRER moderating the discussion asks WRIGHT what his leadership strategy will be, WRIGHT says he will lead by example and hard work. C/S WRIGHT in debate in Well of House, makes a procedural point, draws applause from DEMOCRATS. C/S ROBERT MICHEL, says WRIGHT'S debating style is somewhat theatrical. WRIGHT in debate, makes some grand gestures to the public. C/S LELAND says that in spite of his dramatic tendencies, WRIGHT always speaks sincerely in debate. C/S of WRIGHT in debate, quoting long verse of Kipling. C/S WRIGHT in office, says his father led him to a love of poetry. Stills of WRIGHT from childhood, adolescence, and as a WWII pilot with medals, with wife, with LBJ. Still of former SPEAKER SAM RAYBURN.
LAWMAKERS
16.21.18-WRIGHT-recalls a vote early in his House career over a CIVIL RIGHTS BILL, and SAM RAYBURN'S approach to the bill. ROBERTS v.o.-WRIGHT wants to emulate RAYBURN by becoming speaker. Still of WRIGHT and TIP O'NEILL. Shot of WRIGHT walking hall of Congress. C/S LELAND, says he will work to make WRIGHT speaker. C/S STENHOLM in office, says WRIGHT has earned right to be SPEAKER. C/S BOLLING, says he isn't sure WRIGHT has earned the right to be Speaker, something new than old style of leadership is needed. C/S MICHEL says WRIGHT has been around long enough to know how to work as Speaker, suspects WRIGHT would be less "partisan" than TIP O'NEILL. WRIGHT in office, says he'd like to be Speaker if his colleagues want him in the position. 16.25.06-DUKE-TIP O'NEILL hasn't indicated that he's going to retire any time soon. Discussion of WRIGHT'S prospects in the leadership battles in DEMOCRATIC PARTY. 16.26.17-Commentary by Charles McDowell on the general low repute of "politics" and "politicians" in American vernacular. Argues that compromise and negotiation is essential to make anything happen in the government, despite some people's desires for ideological purity. 16.28.16-DUKE-signs off. Closing Credits/transcript order information/WETA credit/sponsor credits/PBS ID 16.30.00-OUT
LAWMAKERS
WETA "LAWMAKERS" 3/10/1983 IN 15.01.02-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence 15.01.55-PAUL DUKE-ANNE GORSUCH-BERFORD is no longer heading ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY, but Congress continues to investigate the agency over alleged improprieties. The NUCLEAR FREEZE MOVEMENT experiences a revival, and both Houses of Congress support a JOBS BILL. WERTHEIMER-report on former Congresswoman MARGARET HECKLER nomination to Secretary of HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES. DUKE-House passes provision to reform SOCIAL SECURITY, including RAISING RETIREMENT AGE beginning in year 2000. ROBERTS-CLAUDE PEPPER (D-FL) supported the bill, which made other legislators feel secure in supporting it. 15.03.07-M/S PEPPER shaking hands with people in small southern town, a man tells him that he can't live without his SOCIAL SECURITY benefit. Still of young PEPPER with FDR during NEW DEAL period. C/S Rep. LAWRENCE SMITH (D-FL) in debate, argues that SOCIAL SECURITY must be protected. C/S Rep. WILLIAM THOMAS (R-CA) arguing against the plan of PEPPER and favoring the alternate plan of Rep. J.J. PICKLE. C/S Rep. J.J. PICKLE (D-TX) in debate, C/S PEPPER, some joking around about the two men's edible surnames. C/S PICKLE arguing to raise the RETIREMENT AGE to prevent TAX HIKES to pay for SOCIAL SECURITY. C/S PEPPER debating, arguing for TAX INCREASES to pay for SOCIAL SECURITY, calls it a matter of protecting the dignity of the elderly, gets applause when finished. C/S TIP O'NEILL, lauding PEPPER'S speeches, applause for PEPPER. C/S O'NEILL debating, urging members to vote for SOCIAL SECURITY REFORMS whether or not the PEPPER amendment passes, which it didn't. 15.07.54-ROBERTS-discussion of the progress of SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM through the SENATE. DUKE intro report on progress of JOBS BILL for UNEMPLOYMENT relief. 15.09.21-Rep. FRED BOUCHER (D-VA) arguing for a JOBS BILL to fund employment. C/S ROBERT MICHEL in debate, says the bill passed through committee is mediocre. C/S Rep. JOHN CONYERS (D-MI) in debate, says the bill is inadequate to address the problem that there are about 16 MILLION UNEMPLOYED. C/S of different congressmen listing their beefs against the JOBS BILL: Rural areas ignored, program just mimics old New Deal programs, will benefit areas where there is low unemployment anyway. C/S Rep. DELBERT LATTA (R-OH) calls the committee bill a big hunk of PORK that benefits a few committee members on appropriations committee. C/S Rep. ROBERT WALKER (R-PA) rails that the bill is all pork. Rep. MARK SILJANDER (R-MI) argues that the bill isn't helping areas with the worst UNEMPLOYMENT. Rep. SILVIO CONTE (R-MA) says the funding is for "tree planting" not real jobs.
1983 - LAWMAKERS - Jobs Bill
Host Paul Duke introduces report on progress of jobs bill for unemployment relief; Cokie Roberts in FG. (March 3) U.S. House Representative Frederick Boucher (D-VA) arguing for a jobs bill on the House floor to fund employment. House Minority Leader, Rep. Robert Michel (R-IL) says the bill passed through committee is mediocre. Rep. John Conyers (D-MI) says the bill is inadequate to address the sixteen to twenty million people that are unemployed. VS of Congressmen complaining about deficiencies in the jobs bill: rural areas ignored, mimicking old New Deal programs, benefit areas where there is low unemployment anyway. Rep. Delbert Latta (R-OH) calls the committee bill a big hunk of pork that benefits a few committee members on appropriations committee.
Universal Newsreels - Sec. Marshall Asks Full Aid for Europe
marshall gives testimony before Senate foreign relations committe. talks about the critical situation in europe, reminds people that we have won a victory but not a peace. Cites the example that some places in the world have more fighting going on now than during the war.
Music Czar Takes Stand.
Appearing before house labor committee, james petrillo defends his control of union musicians. When asked if he doubted president's opinions on the hcl, petrillo says mr. Truman is potential member of the union. 'He plays the piano.'
Truman Keynotes 1948 Campaign.
Firing the opening gun in the democratic 1948 campaign, pres. Truman is guest speaker at the jefferson-jackson day dinner. He calls for progressive liberalism and challenges all groups to fight inflation, and to join his ten-year program of prosperity.
U.s. Food For China.
American relief flour arrives on the s.S. California and is quickly unloaded. At pieping, thousands of pitful refugees stand in line for a meagre hand-out of rice.
protest
Thse people look a llittle too happy to be strikers but they are protesting something. Sign nearby says "Congested Area: hawking, Seeling Distributing Prohibited." People may be protesting this ordinance as they are all trying to pass out newspapers. Many are arrested and loaded into paddy wagon. Many men and women of all ages are crowded together , some police are around to keep order but everyone has newspapers and they are all holding them up or trying to hand them out. 19:15 - 20:44 Empty factory building. Desks and equipment lay unusued.
Universal Newsreels - UN Appeals For World's Hungry Kids
An appeal to contribute money for straving children all over the world. Takes the tone of America as world police officer and healer, by declaring that the children's minds are as unhealthy as their bodies (poisoned by commmunism?) but that it is our responsibiloity to make sure that they grow up to be good neightbors.
Waves Lash Barcelona.
Huge waves drien by hurricane winds smash the catalonian coast, sending towering breakers 90 feet into the air. Homes are threatened as the surging combers roar in over the sea-walls. (English language voice over)
1983 - LAWMAKERS - Margaret Heckler
Host Paul Duke turns to Linda Wertheimer, who introduces a report on Margaret "Peggy" Heckler being appointed to Secretary of Health and Human Services.
LAWMAKERS - LM 086 - "Nuclear Freeze Debate"
National Public Radio reporter Cokie Roberts reports to show host Paul Duke that the nuclear freeze debate has been tabled, with Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill calling off debate until after Easter recess. Duke introduces his discussion on the nuclear freeze with U.S. Senator Sam Nunn (D-GA). Sen. Nunn’s plan: for each new weapon introduced, retire two old, outdated weapons. Nunn says modernization is more important than amassing huge stockpiles. He dismisses the nuclear freeze as a plan that would lock the U.S. into systems vulnerable to a first strike, leading toward a dangerous hair trigger policy of retaliation. Nunn says it's to mutual advantage that the super powers work together to prevent proliferation of nuclear weapons or weapons of any kind falling into the hands of terrorist organizations.