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Desert
125-2 Desert Scenery (b/w pos.) 125-3 Sand Dunes (b/w pos.) 125-4 Sand dune buggy (color neg.)
LAWMAKERS
WETA "LAWMAKERS" 3/31/1983 IN 20.00.02-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence 20.00.58-PAUL DUKE/NORMAN ORNSTEIN/COKIE ROBERTS-On program-a look at approval of JOBS PROGRAM and SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM by HOUSE and SENATE, other pending Congressional business. Discussion of SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM-crucial to put all reforms in one inseparable package. 20.01.58-m/s ALAN GREENSPAN testifying to congressional committee as part of SOCIAL SECURITY COMMISSION. C/S Rep. CLAUDE PEPPER (D-FL) in office, says that no one likes all of the REFORM PLAN, but everyone likes some part of it, it's the best compromise possible. ROBERTS-even with the support of influential SENIOR CITIZEN PEPPER, plan faced opposition. M/S Sen. BILL ARMSTRONG (R-CO) speaking to audience of SENIOR CITIZENS, says the Commission plan won't solve the problems of SOCIAL SECURITY, he's opposed to TAX INCREASES to finance. Shots of SENIOR CITIZENS hearing speech. Shot of workers on sidewalk by a federal building. ROBERTS v.o.-FEDERAL WORKERS objected to being included in SOCIAL SECURITY system. Shot of chief of FEDERAL WORKERS ASSOCIATION, says adding federal workers won't make much difference to the system's financial problems. 20.03.50-C/S Rep. STENY HOYER (D-MD) in debate in House, says it is wrong to penalize FEDERAL WORKERS for the mistakes of previous political administrations. C/S Rep. PEPPER in debate, C/S Rep. ROBERT MICHEL (MINORITY LEADER) in debate to support the Commission reform plan-there is no choice but compromise if SOCIAL SECURITY is to be saved. 20.04.29-DUKE-discussion with ROBERTS of opposition to the plan-TAX INCREASES, delay in COST OF LIVING ADJUSTMENT opposed by SENIORS, TAXES on SOCIAL SECURITY INCOME for wealthier recipients, higher PAYROLL TAXES, Federal Worker inclusion all controversial, Gradual increases in RETIREMENT AGE. Congress wanted to get the Reform passed before the heat of 1984 CAMPAIGN SEASON got started.
Seasons
126-1 montage of seasons 126-2 montage of seasons
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20.07.09-Clip of 1982 Congressional CAMPAIGN AD, candidate Bruce Morrison (D-CT) with a very stereotypical "little old lady", who chews out incumbent LARRY DeNARDIS. M/S MORRISON in common room of SENIOR CITIZEN center, speaking to group of SENIOR CITIZENS to gauge reaction to SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM. Most seniors think the reforms are fair if it means keeping SOCIAL SECURITY alive. One old lady tells MORRISON that she's going to be watching him closely in Congress. C/S loser DeNARDIS, says that he will watch MORRISON carefully because MORRISON used the SOCIAL SECURITY issue to beat him over the head in the campaign. C/S MORRISON, says DeNARDIS can run again if he wants, says that he will vote against the Commission proposal because "we can do better". 20.09.22-Rep. MORRISON in debate in House. C/S MORRISON in office, says that the Commission plan prevented debating alternatives and won't solve the problems. 20.09.54-ROBERTS-Discussion of opposition to SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM and ELECTORAL POLITICS. DUKE-intro report on JOBS BILL passing through Congress. First Senate and then REAGAN felt pressure to join with House to endorse a JOBS PROGRAM. Discussion of provisions of plan. 20.10.45-Rep. FRED BOUCHER (D-VA) in debate, says the Government must act to ease UNEMPLOYMENT. DUKE v.o.-support for general idea of JOBS PROGRAM bipartisan, but differences on specifics of plan. C/S Rep. DELBERT LATTA (R-OH) calls the proposed JOBS BILL a huge hunk of PORK. MAJORITY LEADER JIM WRIGHT-says it's hypocritical for Congressmen to rail at "PORK" in other districts but seek assistance for their own. C/S Rep. MARCY KAPTUR (D-OH), argues the bill doesn't focus aid on areas with the worst UNEMPLOYMENT. DUKE v.o.-SENATE revised House plan in favor of giving money on a state-by-state basis instead of by locality, but House not accepting changes. 20.12.17-C/S Rep. BARNEY FRANK (D-MA) debating, says the state-by-state plan is bad policy. Rep. SANDER LEVIN (D-MI) says Senate plan would take funds away from the areas targeted by the House. Rep. KAPTUR criticizes Senate plan. 20.12.59-DUKE-the bill agreed on in conference did allow to channel aid to specific localities. Discussion of the politics of the JOBS BILL, why did REAGAN change position to support JOBS? Pressure from voters to ease UNEMPLOYMENT, Republicans anxious for REAGAN to go along. This bill very much a SYMBOLIC gesture. Discussion of gridlock in the SENATE, with much legislation getting derailed by procedure and haggling, trend toward loss of civility among young members of Senate.
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20.17.59-DUKE-WHITE HOUSE unhappy with REPUBLICANS who are refusing to go along with REAGAN'S wishes for HUGE INCREASES IN DEFENSE SPENDING. 20.18.14-C/S CASPAR WEINBERGER (Defense Secretary) in Senate committee hearing, says that DEFENSE cannot be cut any further without undermining "national security". C/S Sen. JOHN WARNER (R-VA) tells WEINBERGER there's no chance in hell that REAGAN is going to get all the money he wants for DEFENSE. C/S DAVID STOCKMAN (REAGAN'S BUDGET chief) in Senate committee hearing, C/S Sen. PETE DOMENICI telling Stockman that economic hard times dictate that DEFENSE share some of the belt-tightening. 20.19.24-M/S REAGAN taking podium in White House Press room, flanked by bright colored charts on easels. REAGAN says that America's defense has to be "rebuilt" in a long, hard process. Blames DEMOCRATS for subverting national security. Says the Russians love to see America's defense in a weak position. 20.20.05-C/S Rep. PAT WILLIAMS (D-MT) says the DEMOCRATS' budget for DEFENSE is a realignment of national priorities, is no comfort to the KREMLIN. 20.20.30-DUKE-discussion with Ornstein of the ongoing DEFENSE battle. It will get tougher when Congress has to keep or cut specific appropriations for DEFENSE. Discussion with ROBERTS of increased power of DEMOCRATS in Congress making the going tougher for REAGAN in 1983. PARTISANSHIP looks to be the rule of the coming BUDGET debate. Duke intro commentary. 20.23.38-Commentary by Charles McDowell on annual GRIDIRON CLUB ROAST of political leaders. Notes the extraordinary good humor of all of the figures while being lampooned. It's not often that the President, Congress, and the Soviet Ambassador laugh at the same lame jokes. 20.25.38-DUKE-signs off. Closing credits/transcript order information/WETA credit/sponsor credits/PBS ID. 20.27.51--OUT
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WETA "LAWMAKERS" 4/07/1983 IN 20.00.02-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence 20.00.58-PAUL DUKE/LINDA WERTHEIMER/COKIE ROBERTS-on program-SENATE votes against REAGAN to limit DEFENSE SPENDING INCREASES. Other issues entail FOREIGN POLICY. Discussion of public opinion on issues. Sen. PETE DOMENICI (R-NM) a prominent figure in contradicting REAGAN'S budget priorities, reflects the wishes of his constituents. 20.02.15-M/S Sen. DOMENICI meeting constituents in NEW MEXICO. Shots of DOMENICI with SENIOR CITIZENS near Albuquerque, most praise DOMENICI as he shakes their hands, speaking some Spanish. Shots of Spanish-Colonial hotel building, dry desert with Sandia mountains in background, sagebrush. C/S DOMENICI discussing experiences of his father as an Italian immigrant. Stills of DOMENICI from childhood, adolescence, Albuquerque municipal political career. C/S Harry Kinney, Mayor of Albuquerque, discusses having to push DOMENICI to enter Politics. C/S DOMENICI at fundraiser, pullback focus on MARIACHI TRUMPET PLAYER, shots of DOMENICI gladhanding interspersed with shots of MARIACHI BAND. 20.05.10-Shots of DANCERS and DRUMMER in costumes of NAVAJO (?) NATIVE AMERICAN style. C/S of New Mexico DEMOCRATIC chairman, praises DOMENICI for being very involved with the constituency. Clip of "Face the Nation" with DOMENICI. C/S various New Mexico citizens praising DOMENICI'S intelligence and closeness to the people. M/S DOMENICI and colleague on sidewalk near WHITE HOUSE, entering WHITE HOUSE as MARINE GUARD opens door. Still of DOMENICI in meeting in White House with REAGAN and GEORGE BUSH. DOMENICI v.o.-his role in BUDGET DEBATE is to be a constructive critic of REAGAN'S plans. Shots of a SENATE BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING with DOMENICI presiding, C/S DOMENICI arguing that REAGAN wants too much DEFENSE SPENDING. C/S DOMENICI in office, says his constituents seem to feel good about the job he's doing in Senate. 20.07.38-M/S SMALL AIRPLANE on runway, CHAMBER OF COMMERCE members rolling out RED CARPET for DOMENICI'S arrival, DOMENICI greeting the Chamber members. WERTHEIMER standing in rural road in NEW MEXICO-says DOMENICI stays popular in a DEMOCRATIC state by getting a lot of projects funneled to the state. Shots of IRRIGATION CANALS, FARM MACHINERY used to maximize IRRIGATION efficiency, DOMENICI riding tractor with farmers. DOMENICI v.o.-he's a moderate, he stays in voter's favor by being mindful of home-state issues. 20.09.46-Shots of UNEMPLOYED MINERS PICKETING against MINERAL IMPORTS, hold signs saying "Imports Create Welfare Lines". Sen. DOMENICI meeting with picketers. C/S an older miner, says he's disappointed with DOMENICI'S performance. Another miner says DOMENICI is fair, but the state needs more liberal leaders. Shots of DOMENICI in meeting of POSTAL WORKERS. A worker expresses concern over PENSION reforms, says they consider DOMENICI as a friend in spite of his REPUBLICAN affiliation. DOMENICI tells workers he tries to do his best for New Mexico regardless of party. C/S DOMENICI in office, says he's concerned about the economy and employment. Shots of DOMENICI with SENIOR CITIZENS and UNEMPLOYED MINERS, other constituents.
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20.12.56-DUKE-Discussion with WERTHEIMER of DOMENICI'S role in Senate in denying REAGAN his full request for DEFENSE SPENDING, REAGAN'S efforts in PUBLIC RELATIONS to make DEFENSE seem like an urgent issue-most members of CONGRESS think the voters are finding REAGAN to be obsessive about DEFENSE. Conference between House and Senate likely to reduce the DEFENSE allocation even further. 20.14.28-DUKE-intro report on EL SALVADOR DEBATE. ROBERTS reports on public sentiments on EL SALVADOR and memories of VIETNAM. 20.15.09-L/S residential area of Wilmington, Delaware, L/S side of STEEL MILL. L/S through front gates of mansion-like building of a Prep School. C/S school headmaster in clerical garb opening a discussion on EL SALVADOR. Introduces Sen. JOE BIDEN (D-DE), shots of audience, mix of age, gender, race, class. C/S BIDEN taking podium, pan over audience in bleachers of School gymnasium, crowd applauds BIDEN. BIDEN starts by saying he finds "ominous similarities" between VIETNAM and EL SALVADOR, the big issue is that VIETNAM was undertaken without full commitment, the mistake must not be repeated, no involvement should be started without consent and involvement of the public. 20.17.18-BIDEN fields questions from the audience. A young woman asks about ECONOMIC AID to EL SALVADOR, BIDEN approves such aid, for food, medicine, says it's ludicrous to make peace and stability without ECONOMIC IMPROVEMENT. A young man asks how U.S. can aid other countries with DOMESTIC ECONOMY in shambles. BIDEN says he won't compromise American interests, but there should be action on EL SALVADOR and CENTRAL AMERICA that is not military in nature, ECONOMIC AID could be cheaper than MILITARY AID. A middle-aged man says it's time to "draw the line" on the SPREAD OF COMMUNISM. Crowd applauds this, but grumbles when the man suggests sending in the U.S. ARMY to defeat the COMMUNISTS once and for all. BIDEN asks for show of hands on sending in the troops, almost no one raises hands. Students show hands against the idea, crowd applauds.
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20.20.12-A high school girl says DEMOCRATS have "started" most wars, why are they reluctant now. BIDEN jokes about the "DEMOCRAT WAR" idea. A young man looking like a bearded hippie throwback raises the issue of all the HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS, a situation that has gotten WORSE since U.S. aid began, says U.S. shouldn't aid a brutal dictatorship. A middle-aged man butts in to say that COMMUNISTS are responsible for the repression, proved by the flood of REFUGEES who flee COMMUNIST regimes for the UNITED STATES, "the pinnacle of the free countries". BIDEN says that the dilemma between COMMUNISTS and RIGHT-WING DICTATORSHIPS must be resolved by the U.S. insisting on negotiations involving all parties to see who is willing to work for peace, negotiation should be a part of Foreign Policy. BIDEN thanks the crowd, applause. 20.22.44-C/S an old man, says he's pleased with the quality of the "town meeting", diversity of views. An old woman says the people were interesting, jokes that she doesn't know much about EL SALVADOR because she watches too many soap operas. A young man says that the people need to be kept informed about important decisions like this. 20.23.17-ROBERTS-discussion of PUBLIC OPINION on EL SALVADOR, REAGAN forced to delay action on aid. Concern also about REAGAN initiative to aid NICARAGUAN REBELS [CONTRAS], possibly in defiance of Congress. Intro commentary. 20.23.50-Commentary by Otis Pike on Congress' handling of FOREIGN POLICY. Unanimous vote for a House Resolution outlining CIA and DEFENSE DEPARTMENT activities in NICARAGUA indicates either that everyone likes the idea or that most don't understand it. The bill BANS THE CIA from using FUNDS to support the OVERTHROW of NICARAGUAN government by any insurgent force. Given the diversity of opinion, the strength of the vote is strange, but the question remains, "what ARE we doing in NICARAGUA?"-The controversy is brewing over whether the CIA'S activities with the "CONTRAS" are illegal. 20.25.45-DUKE-signs off. Closing credits [over shots of dancers in Mexican/Spanish colonial costume, architecture and people in Albuquerque, NEW MEXICO]/transcript order information/WETA credit/sponsor credits/PBS ID 20.27.53--OUT
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WETA "LAWMAKERS" 4/14/1983 IN 20.00.00-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title seqence. 20.00.55-PAUL DUKE/LINDA WERTHEIMER/COKIE ROBERTS-REAGAN got a victory when Senate approved his nominee, KENNETH ADELMAN, to head ARMS CONTROL and DISARMAMENT AGENCY, but lost in both houses on DEFENSE BUDGET. New push to curb U.S. aid to NICARAGUAN REBELS ["CONTRAS"] and EL SALVADOR. SENATE BUDGET COMMITTEE refuses REAGAN'S proposal to cut DOMESTIC SPENDING and almost votes to TERMINATE REAGAN'S TAX CUT PROGRAM. House tribute to deceased Rep. PHIL BURTON (D-CA). Intro report on Congressional doubts about REAGAN'S commitment to ARMS CONTROL and position on DEFENSE. 20.02.32-Clip of REAGAN arguing against NUCLEAR FREEZE, contains "EVIL EMPIRE" quote about SOVIET UNION. Clip of OVAL OFFICE TV ADDRESS, REAGAN begging the public to tell their Congressmen and Senators to vote for MORE DEFENSE SPENDING. Clip of REAGAN speech, says "restoring military balance" is essential to peace. Shots of SENATE BUDGET COMMITTEE meeting, C/S Sen. JAMES EXON (D-NE), attacking REAGAN'S unwillingness to compromise. C/S Sen. PETE DOMENICI (R-NM) agreeing that REAGAN has not compromised one bit. C/S Sen. MARK ANDREWS (R-ND) attacking DEFENSE SECRETARY CASPAR WEINBERGER for the PENTAGON'S refusal to provide the Senate with clear numbers for DEFENSE COSTS. C/S Sen. HOWARD METZENBAUM (D-OH) gleefully announcing that since REPUBLICANS have been criticizing REAGAN, he will withhold his prepared "oratorical gems" until later. C/S DOMENICI joking that he never thought it was possible to get METZENBAUM to forego speaking. C/S Sen. JOHN TOWER (R-TX) arguing that REAGAN is doing his duty to guarantee security to all American citizens. 20.05.30-C/S Sen. DOMENICI, says REAGAN'S position on DEFENSE BUDGET is unreasonable, it is possible to defend the U.S. with less money. C/S TIP O'NEILL on SPEAKER'S platform in House. C/S JIM WRIGHT (MAJORITY LEADER) debating, says the NUCLEAR FREEZE issue is a question of working for peace or continuing to increase risk of NUCLEAR WAR. C/S Rep. NORMAN DICKS (D-WA) questioning REAGAN'S sincerity on the issue of ARMS CONTROL. Rep. JACK KEMP (R-NY) angrily debating, says that the U.S.S.R. is the enemy of all "American ideals", NUCLEAR FREEZE would be a mistake. KEMP gets cheers from some, hoots from others. 20.07.41-C/S Rep. ED MARKEY (D-MA) debating. File footage of MX MISSILE standing in a silo with technicians inspecting it. Shots of a Commission meeting to study deployment of the MX MISSILE. C/S BRENT SCOWCROFT, Commission for Strategic Forces, admitting that the Commission can't find any perfect solution to deploy the MX MISSILE. C/S Herbert Scoville, former deputy director of CIA, says SCOWCROFT COMMISSION report is just a rehash of old MX MISSILE PROPOSALS which were flawed and wasteful, the whole MX PROGRAM is "bankrupt". L/S-zoom Rep. BILL GREEN speaking to press, says SCOWCROFT COMMISSION REPORT proves that the MX MISSILE is a dead horse.
Time Lapse Flowers (Can 1 of 3)
128-11 Time lapse flower 128-12 Time lapse flower 128-15 Time lapse flower 128-16 Time lapse flower
LAWMAKERS
20.09.26-DUKE-Discussion with ROBERTS/WERTHEIMER-PUBLIC thinks REAGAN is going TOO FAR on DEFENSE and being too belligerent and intransigent on FOREIGN POLICY. DEMOCRATS are delighted to be able to paint the REPUBLICANS as the Pro-War party. REAGAN'S speeches have not helped his causes. Also, on DOMESTIC BUDGET, REAGAN'S agenda of BUDGET CUTS has been denied by the Senate, and REAGAN'S TAX CUT PROGRAM is in jeopardy as well. 20.11.33-C/S Sen. JAMES EXON (D-NE), says the Senate has the responsibility to the public to be honest and admit that BUDGET PROGRAMS require TAXATION. C/S Sen. HOWARD METZENBAUM in debate, says that the BALANCED BUDGET was a huge ELECTION ISSUE, Congress and Senate are obligated to work toward one by increasing REVENUE. METZENBAUM and BUDGET COMMITTEE CHAIR PETE DOMENICI have a spat. C/S Sen. SLADE GORTON (R-WA) says that he doesn't want to INCREASE TAXES by an amount greater than the amount of SPENDING REDUCTION. WERTHEIMER-CONSERVATIVES wanted no change to REAGAN'S TAX CUT agenda. C/S ORRIN HATCH says TAX INCREASES are useless for DEFICIT REDUCTION, and the TAX CUTS were intended as a disciplinary measure to CONTROL SPENDING [which REAGAN did not do]. C/S Sen. LAWTON CHILES (D-FL) rebuts that TAX CUTS won't help BALANCED BUDGET, notes that REAGANOMICS has led to the highest deficits in history. HATCH starts to respond angrily about "tax and spend" DEMOCRATS, DOMENICI interrupts to demand an end to the argument. WERTHEIMER v.o.-DOMENICI proposed a compromise of small TAX HIKES for short term and larger TAX HIKES later on to cut DEFICITS. DOMENICI chastising his committee for taking path of argument instead of compromise, says this will never lead to a BALANCED BUDGET. 20.15.44-WERTHEIMER-discussion of proposals in BUDGET COMMITTEE for TAX INCREASES, none of which were approved, discussion of REAGAN'S loss of control over SENATE REPUBLICANS in BUDGET DEBATE.
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ROBERTS-report on death of 19 year Congressional veteran PHIL BURTON (D-CA). 20.17.39-TIP O'NEILL in well of House, speaking in tribute to PHIL BURTON, C/S PHIL BURTON speaking on campaign trail, denouncing REAGAN'S agenda as trampling on the unfortunate and powerless. C/S Rep. GEORGE MILLER (D-CA) in office, recalling BURTON'S love of the legislative fighting. Shots of BURTON campaigning in San Francisco, C/S street signs Haight/Ashbury, Senior Citizens. C/S Rep. MILLER, says BURTON was a key player in California REDISTRICTING that gave advantage to LIBERALS in 1982 elections, compares BURTON to BILLY MARTIN, the New York Yankees manager. C/S Rep. TOM FOLEY, says BURTON was highly knowledgeable about DISTRICTING process. C/S MILLER, says BURTON did much in Congress to take away the privileges of SENIORITY system and allow all members to participate fully. 20.20.23--C/S BURTON in debate. C/S Rep. DON EDWARDS (D-CA) discussing BURTON'S ability to generate COALITIONS of disparate interests. C/S Rep. JOHN ERLENBORN (R-IL) says BURTON could be a tough opponent or valued ally. C/S Rep. MILLER, says BURTON'S threats were taken very seriously in Congress, more than any other Congressman's threats. ROBERTS v.o.-BURTON attracted enemies as well as friends through his style, missing a bid for MAJORITY LEADER, but still pressed for his legislative agenda. C/S Rep. EDWARDS with Capitol in background, says BURTON was a legislative genius. 20.22.13-AERIAL of GOLDEN GATE with S.F. in foreground, hills in back, bridge shrouded in fog. M/S BURTON in office with NATIONAL PARK RANGERS, discussing a PARKS PROJECT. C/S Rep. JAMES WEAVER (D-OR) advocating a PARKS BILL as a posthumous tribute to its author, PHIL BURTON. Rep. DAVID OBEY (D-WI) remarking on passage of the bill, jokes that if BURTON had known he was going to die, he would have put a lot more in the bill. C/S Rep. FOLEY, praising BURTON as a compassionate and memorable legislator. L/S Capitol Dome with flag at half mast. 20.23.54-DUKE-intro commentary. 20.24.17-Commentary by Charles McDowell on INCOME TAX FILING, holds up a form 1040, notes that the voluntary contribution to PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION FUND is the one easy question on the form, which raised $100 million for 1980 elections. Discusses PUBLIC FINANCING of campaigns and concerns about influence of CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS by POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEES, however, only 25% of TAXPAYERS have been voluntarily donating to the election funds. Perhaps the PUBLIC FINANCING appeal would work more if it wasn't attached to the INCOME TAX FORM, which tends to frustrate and enrage the public. 20.26.13-DUKE-signs off Closing Credits/transcript order information/WETA credit/sponsor credits/PBS ID 20.27.50-OUT
Lawmakers April 21 1983
Lawmakers 4/21/1983
Lawmakers April 21 1983
Lawmakers 4/21/1983
Lawmakers April 28 1983
Lawmakers 4/28/1983
Lawmakers April 28 1983
Lawmakers 4/28/1983
Lawmakers April 28 1983
Lawmakers 4/28/1983
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WETA "LAWMAKERS" 5/05/1983 IN 20.45.00-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence 20.45.57-PAUL DUKE/LINDA WERTHEIMER/COKIE ROBERTS-on program-REAGAN ADMINISTRATION takes beating in Congress over FOREIGN POLICY, HOUSE votes to crack down on COVERT CIA OPERATIONS to aid the NICARAGUAN INSURGENCY (CONTRAS) and endorsed a NUCLEAR FREEZE RESOLUTION. The SENATE was supportive of WILLIAM RUCKELSHAUS, REAGAN'S nominee to head ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY. However, SENATE REPUBLICANS seem likely to endorse more DOMESTIC SPENDING than REAGAN wants. Intro RUCKELSHAUS story. WERTHEIMER-after the corrupt and controversial leadership of ANNE GORSUCH at EPA, RUCKELSHAUS has pledged to enforce the laws on POLLUTION. 20.47.18-C/S Sen. PAT MOYNIHAN giving GORSUCH a chewing out over her enforcement of SUPERFUND law. GORSUCH is not penitent. MOYNIHAN asks why REAGAN administration keeps reducing funds for enforcement, ostensibly with GORSUCH'S approval. M/S WILLIAM RUCKELSHAUS taking seat to testify to committee. C/S Sen. ROBERT STAFFORD, C/S Sen. JENNINGS RANDOLPH [D-WV], both say that RUCKELSHAUS must make clear that he is going to enforce the ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS. WERTHEIMER v.o.-GORSUCH'S administration embarrassed REPUBLICANS, who have been hurt by the public's concern for the ENVIRONMENT, DEMOCRATS also pleased by the change at EPA. C/S Sen. GEORGE MITCHELL (D-ME) praises RUCKELSHAUS'S integrity and credentials. Sen. JOHN CHAFEE (D-RI) concurs. C/S RUCKELSHAUS testifying, v.o.-RUCKELSHAUS was fired from JUSTICE DEPARTMENT by NIXON when he refused to fire ARCHIBALD COX as WATERGATE SPECIAL PROSECUTOR when COX was getting too close to the truth. 20.49.55-C/S Sen. HENRY JACKSON (D-WA), says he can't believe that RUCKELSHAUS is willing to leave private job to head the EPA. C/S Sen. DAVID DURENBERGER (R-MN) says it's fortunate that RUCKELSHAUS is willing to go back to the public service sector, hopefully he drove a hard bargain with the White House. Sen. STAFFORD asks RUCKELSHAUS about assurances of INDEPENDENCE from WHITE HOUSE. RUCKELSHAUS says he has all the assurance possible. WERTHEIMER v.o.-RUCKELSHAUS' employment with WEYERHAUSER LUMBER is a concern for ENVIRONMENTALISTS. C/S RUCKELSHAUS pledging to be active and dilligent in enforcing ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS. M/S GARY HART, says he doesn't trust REAGAN'S commitment to the environment. RUCKELSHAUS insists he will proceed without being bound by Reagan. 20.52.35-DUKE-discussion of other REAGAN ADMINISTRATION agenda on Capitol Hill. ROBERTS-House approved a NUCLEAR FREEZE RESOLUTION that REAGAN had opposed. Despite the 2-1 margin, opponents satisfied with weakening amendments, but REAGAN still opposed to NUCLEAR FREEZE idea, Senate likely to defeat it. WERTHEIMER-HOUSE INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE has voted to CUT OFF funds for COVERT OPERATIONS in NICARAGUA. SENATE REPUBLICANS also giving REAGAN problems by disagreeing with DOMESTIC SPENDING and TAX POLICY. DUKE-intro report on UNEMPLOYMENT, still 11 MILLION unemployed, many without HEALTH INSURANCE.
LAWMAKERS
20.25.13-C/S of a burly man, identified as UNEMPLOYED COAL MINER, says his wife told him about being invited to Washington by Senator JOHN HEINZ, he thought she was nuts. M/S man, name TOM SAMEK, entering Senate Committee chamber, sitting to testify, taking seat at request of BOB DOLE. Shots of members of SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE. Samek discusses a financial bind after losing his HEALTH INSURANCE and having to buy an extension play to cover his wife's pregnancy. C/S Sen. DAVID DURENBERGER (R-MN) proposing a government subsidized plan for HEALTH INSURANCE with a small client payment. The miner says the numbers DURENBERGER proposes will be great until his unemployment benefits run out and he has no income at all. DOLE sympathizes. 20.58.20--M/S DAVID STOCKMAN testifying to the committee. C/S Sen. JOHN HEINZ relating the miner's story to STOCKMAN. Says the BUDGET had better include emergency aid. C/S STOCKMAN arguing that the UNEMPLOYED aren't that bad off, and many in fact have high incomes (yeah, right, you twit). C/S Sen. HEINZ, says that Congress is allowed to dictate the amounts of any program if it also devises the means to finance it. STOCKMAN concurs. DUKE v.o.-it's a dilemma because no legislators want to increase TAXES or the DEFICIT. C/S Sen. HEINZ, says that UNEMPLOYMENT is hurting people who have been homeowners, taxpayers, and law-abiding citizens, must be helped. 21.00.42-DUKE-The Senate approved the DOLE/DURENBERGER plan for almost $2 BILLION in INSURANCE PROTECTION plans.
LAWMAKERS
ROBERTS-intro report on new House Committee on Children and Families meeting. 21.01.16-C/S of ten-year old boy who looks like Bobby Brady adjusting microphone to testify to Congressional committee. Has trouble getting the mic down to the right height. His statement says kids are concerned about the news. A ten-year-old girl testifies that kids are concerned about war and "blowing up the world", says countries should agree to get along, the money for arms could go to schools. Children are the future, etc. Another girl asks if the world "has to be like this". Shots of kids entering the committee chamber. C/S GEORGE MILLER (D-CA), says that kids will bring the problems and issues right up to Congress. C/S Rep. DAN MARRIOTT (chair of the committee) says CHILDREN and FAMILIES should be top priority. 21.03.30-M/S group of African-American children, approx. age 10, waiting to testify. Pan over chamber of committee, the floor is literally covered with the little rugrats. A girl with southern accent reads statement (sounds like it was written by her teacher or her mom) about unemployment. Another girl says inflation should be fixed by price controls and companies shouldn't be allowed to raise their prices whenever they feel like it. A girl asks why the government makes more bombs if it says it wants peace. 21.05.06-C/S Rep. J.J. PICKLE (D-TX) in office, says that committee meetings like the one with all the kids are an insult to the committees that do the hard work of legislating, are unnecessary. C/S Rep. MILLER in office, denies that LIBERALS are trying to grandstand on CHILDREN'S ISSUES through the COMMITTEE ON YOUTH, CHILDREN, and FAMILIES. C/S Rep. MARRIOTT, says he learned that he might have to spend more time with his kids. C/S Rep. MILLER, says he could see the fathers on the committee wondering if they were active enough in their kids' lives. Gives a debatable theory of EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT. 21.07.24-DUKE-intro commentary. 21.07.42-Commentary by Otis Pike, discusses the BISHOPS COUNCIL resolution on NUCLEAR ARMS RACE, compares to the House debate on NUCLEAR FREEZE, both groups doing a lot of preaching and using ridiculous parliamentary tactics. 21.09.48-DUKE-signs off. Closing Credits [over groundlevel shot of red TULIPS with Capitol in background, MAGNOLIA blossoms, CHERRY TREES, more flowers in various D.C. settings] /transcript order information/WETA credit/sponsor credits/PBS ID 21.12.48--OUT
LAWMAKERS
20.09.53-Rep. FRED BOUCHER (D-VA) in March 1983 debate on JOBS BILL. Rep. DELBERT LATTA (R-OH) questions how many people will really be helped, if the cost of the bill is worth it. M/S REAGAN giving WHITE HOUSE press conference, trying to take credit for the JOBS BILL. ROBERTS v.o.-disc. provisions of BILL. C/S Sen. ROBERT BYRD (D-WV) says that a heavily industrial state like his, so dependent on one industry, needs more help. C/S Sen. J. RANDOLPH (D-WV), says many parts of West Virginia aren't experiencing any recovery. GRAPHIC of outline of West Virginia, titles show UNEMPLOYMENT and federal aid stats. 20.11.47-M/S of Welcome sign for Wheeling, WV, badges of LIONS CLUB, KIWANIS, ROTARY, etc. on sign. Shot of a choir singing, pullback shows the scene: reopening ceremony for a BRIDGE that will be fixed with FEDERAL JOBS BILL funds. Pan up to show old stone arch of bridge entrance. C/S Wheeling Mayor in office, says bridge was once the gateway to the entire West. Shots of pedestrians walking toward bridge span. Shot of a soupkitchen volunteer, says that the problems in COAL and STEEL have hopefully bottomed out, but she doesn't see it getting better. Shots of people eating in SOUP KITCHEN. Shots of old FACTORIES on banks of OHIO RIVER. Shot of sign on window identifying the local UNEMPLOYMENT OFFICE. 20.13.06-Clerk in UNEMPLOYMENT OFFICE reviewing a man's case, shot of overstuffed files. Shot of a clerk, says people aren't sure the JOBS BILL will work, have to wait and see. Shot of an UNEMPLOYED MAN, approx. age 40, says his UNION predicted no jobs for nine months. Shot of Wheeling City Manager, says it's his job to try to get the funds to start work. Shots of the City Manager presenting a pitch to a Government agency. Shot of Rep. of NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE explaining his agency's criteria for selecting projects for funding. C/S another Wheeling city official, says that the city has a hard time in getting new projects approved. C/S city manager with Ohio River in background, says he really has to hustle to go and get projects. Shots of Wheeling city streets. Shot of city manager discussing prospects for adding JOBS. C/S Rep. ALAN MOLLOHAN (D-WV) with Wheeling homes in background, says there's no way a government program can give everyone a job. C/S Wheeling City manager, says even short-term employment is worth something.
LAWMAKERS
LAWMAKERS - Jobs Bill
LAWMAKERS
WETA "LAWMAKERS" 5/19/1983 IN 20.00.00-WETA credit/sponsor credits/title sequence 20.00.57-PAUL DUKE/LINDA WERTHEIMER/COKIE ROBERTS-Senate considers IMMIGRATION REFORM, House not likely to approve it, WILLIAM RUCKELSHAUS approved to head ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY, Both Houses negotiate the BUDGET debate. A profile on BOB DOLE and report on approval for building of MX MISSILE. 20.02.18-C/S REAGAN giving White House Press conference, congratulates the "bipartisan" approval of the MX "PEACEKEEPER" MISSILE by appropriations committees. Side angle medium shot of REAGAN showing the press corps in room. C/S Rep. TOM DOWNEY (D-NY) in front of Capitol, says that in addition to CONSERVATIVE DEMOCRATS, some "good Democrats" have gon over to REAGAN'S side on the MX MISSILE. He thinks it's wasteful and dangerous. M/S Rep. LES ASPIN (D-WI) with Rep. ROBERT MICHEL speaking to press outside White House. C/S ASPIN, says he would not have voted for the proposed MX plan, but it's the best plan possible. M/S ASPIN, DICK GEPHARDT, and AL GORE in a "backroom" meeting, counting committee votes for the MX plan. ROBERTS v.o.-this group of "moderate to liberal" Democrats has been trying to lobby other DEMOCRATS to support the MX MISSILE. C/S ASPIN in office, says the MX is neither good nor bad in itself, but the SCOWCROFT COMMISSION recommendation to deploy the MX should influence the SOVIETS to move toward ARMS CONTROL 20.04.36-L/S ASPIN exiting Capitol, pan follow ASPIN down steps and across street. ROBERTS v.o.-ASPIN had been critical of MILITARY BUILDUP and fought for the NUCLEAR FREEZE, his switch is puzzling to colleagues. C/S Anne McBride, lobbyist against MX for COMMON CAUSE. Says the switch was a total surprise. C/S Rep. ROBERT MATSUI (D-CA), says he's surprised by ASPIN, maybe ASPIN began negotiating with REAGAN too soon. C/S Rep. DOWNEY, says he jokes with ASPIN that the MX is going to be renamed the "Les Aspin-Al Gore-Norm Dicks Memorial First Strike Warhead". He thinks the mistake is tragic. M/S ASPIN meeting with group of people. ROBERTS v.o.-these people all have MISSILE SILOS on their property. One older woman gets very agitated that she doesn't want the MX on her property. C/S of a priest who was part of the group, says he disagrees with Aspin and hopes he will change his mind. C/S a Woman id'ed by titles as Anti-MX activist, says she wonders if ASPIN is being bought out. 20.06.36-C/S ASPIN in meeting with a colleague, trying to line up votes for the MX. C/S Rep. DOWNEY, says LIBERALS don't "love to hate" the MX, but believe that ARMS CONTROL is not served by building more weapons. C/S Rep. DAN GLICKMAN (D-KS), says that ASPIN'S support makes it easier for Democrats to vote for the MX. C/S Rep. MATSUI, says ASPIN'S support is good for REAGAN. M/S ASPIN and colleagues in office meeting, AL GORE entering. M/S ASPIN in office, interviewed by ROBERTS, who asks whether ASPIN believes all the dire predictions made by REAGAN about the ARMS RACE and SOVIET SUPERIORITY/AMERICAN VULNERABILITY. ASPIN says he's been convinced after a long time that REAGAN believes it to be true [never really answers the question, whether ASPIN believes REAGAN].
LAWMAKERS
20.08.42-ROBERTS-discussion of the confused issue of war, peace, and arms, role of MX MISSILE proponents in clouding the issue. WERTHEIMER-the BANK INDUSTRY LOBBY has successfully gotten the HOUSE to repeal TAX LAW requiring withholding of INTEREST and DIVIDEND INCOME. Discussion of the contentiousness of the issue. Discussion of the BUDGET DEBATE process. TAX INCREASES and the DEFICIT are key points of contention. Intro profile of BOB DOLE and his influence in the Senate. 20.11.15-M/S of GERALD FORD at 1976 REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION, announcing his pleasure at having BOB DOLE as running mate, DOLE stands behind FORD. M/S DOLE at campaign dinner, says he want to be Vice-President because "it's indoor work and no heavy lifting". L/S GERALD and Mrs. FORD on podium at Convention. DOLE v.o.-FORD wanted him to take the low road in the campaign when they fell behind CARTER. CLIP of Vice Presidential Debate, DOLE mentions the totals of wounded in "DEMOCRAT WARS" (his count includes WORLD WAR II as a "Democrat War", although the Civil war that would have resulted from four more years of HOOVER would no doubt have been bloodier). WALTER MONDALE in debate responds that DOLE has richly earned his reputation as a hatchet man. 20.12.47-DOLE in office, reminisces that the bad publicity from the 1976 campaign didn't hurt him too badly in the long run. Shot of REAGAN supporters cheering the 1980 ELECTION RESULTS. M/S HOWARD BAKER and wife at press conference, celebrating the REAGAN landslide. Shot of sign over door of Senate Chamber. Shots of SENATE REPUBLICANS in conference, Shot of DOLE walking into Senate Chamber. M/S DOLE in office, tells of his appointment to be chair of FINANCE COMMITTEE, pressure of replacing Democrat RUSSELL LONG in commmittee. C/S LONG in front of Capitol, says that he answered the call of "Mr. Chairman" out of habit in the first rollcall in committee. M/S DOLE and LONG in committee hearing.