The Cursed American Presidency

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COMING SOON IN CHAPTER VII OF THE CURSED AMERICAN PRESIDENCY
January 20th, 1977: Inauguration of Edmund Gerald "Jerry" Brown, Jr., as the 40th President of the United States

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January 6th, 1977: Brown's Electoral College victory officially confirmed.

As required by the Electoral Count Act, Congress met to count & certify the Electoral College votes from the 1976 Presidential election. Due to the closeness of the electoral votes in several states, the event was more in the public spotlight that usual. Outgoing Vice President Edward W. Brooke, III presided over the ceremony & formally announced the results: CA Governor Jerry Brown won the Electoral College 271-266.

January 12th, 1977: Governor Brown delivers 3rd & presumably final State of the State Address

In what was considered his 3rd & final State of the State Address before a joint session of the CA State Legislature, CA Governor Jerry Brown (D) detailed many of his accomplishments including highlighting zero-based budgeting techniques in making the Golden State run efficiently. Brown had been working on transition business inside state government the second he was declared the winner of the 1976 Presidential election on December 6th, 1976. He wished his incoming successor, CA Lieutenant Governor Mervyn Dymally (D) & his family well as he commended the historic nature of Dymally's ascension of being the first African American US State Governor: "To my successor, soon-to-be Governor Mervyn Dymally. I hope that you and your family enjoy the people of Sacramento as I did during my two years in office. The Governor's Office here on the first floor is ready for occupancy, I have cleaned out my desk. Now the newly-built Governor's Mansion in Carmichael might need some occupancy (laughter from the crowd). In five days when my resignation becomes official, I will have a front row seat watching my successor taking the oath of office as California's 35th Governor as he continues the progress that my administration left off and goes forward in leading California into a new decade."

January 17th, 1977: Brown's resignation as CA's 34th Governor officially effective as Dymally ascends to the Governorship as the Golden State's 35th Chief Executive

CA Governor Mervyn Dymally (D) with President-elect Jerry Brown during Dymally's historic inauguration as the Golden State's 35th Governor inside the CA State Assembly chambers.

The Golden State officially has a new Governor effective 11:00 AM PST. Mervyn Malcolm Dymally (D), was sworn into office as CA's 35th Governor making history: becoming the first African American to hold the CA Governorship & the first African American US State Governor since then-LA Governor PSB Pinchback (R), who served from 1872-1873 during the Reconstruction period. Dymally, who previously served in the CA State Assembly (1963-1967), CA State Senate & CA's 41st Lieutenant Governor (January 6th, 1975 to January 17th, 1977) succeeded from the Lieutenant Governorship after President-elect Jerry Brown submitted his resignation, which became official on Monday morning at 11:00 AM PST. This allows Democrats to keep the Governorship in Democratic hands & Dymally during a press conference confirmed he will be seeking a 1st full 4-year term as Governor in the 1978 elections.

President-elect Brown arrives in Washington, DC; staying at the Blair House.

In the evening hours of January 17th, President-elect Jerry Brown & his family flew on USAF 747 which arrived at Andrews AFB in Camp Springs, MD at 5:56 PM EST.

Brown will be staying at the Blair House until his inauguration as the 40th President of the United States on January 20th.

January 18th, 1977: President Rockefeller's final executive orders cement maintain increase of troops levels in Taiwan, Republic of Korea, Japan, Philippines, etc.,

In one of his last acts in office, outgoing President Nelson Rockefeller signed Executive Order #773 requiring increase of US military personnel troops & forces in Taiwan, Republic of Korea, Japan, the Philippines including Europe & NATO countries. Observers viewed the move as a warning shot at the incoming administration to not alienate our allies in Asia & Europe.

Vice President Brooke moves out of the Number One Observatory Circle; moving back to Boston suburbs.

Vice President Edward W. Brooke & his wife, Second Lady Remigia Brooke officially moved out of the Number One Observatory Circle & reportedly moved back to the suburbs of Boston, MA according to local ABC affiliate TV station in Boston.

Reports circulate Brooke also purchased a vacation home in Corral Gables, FL.

First Lady Happy Rockefeller takes picture dancing on the table inside Cabinet Room

With just two days left before leaving the White House, outgoing First Lady Happy Rockefeller decided to have some fun by being photographed barefoot dancing on the table inside the Cabinet Room, where meetings of the President's Cabinet are annually held.

Asked what she'll miss about living in the White House, she replied "meeting and talking with the White House staff about their families and life".

January 19th, 1977: Mexican First Lady planning long international goodwill tour of unspecified countries

Mexican First Lady Fernanda Arizmendi confirmed she'll be planning on long international goodwill tour of unspecified countries which will last either six months or longer. "I cannot confirm or deny which particular countries I'll be visiting, but rest assured that I plan on being the unofficial spokesperson for my husband, President Oscar Robles in making Mexico the shining light of the Americas."

Arizmendi, 27, is the youngest First Lady that Mexico has ever had. She's quite popular among the Mexican people despite her husband's controversial ascension to the Presidency following a military coup d'etat on February 21st, 1973.

 

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January 12th, 1977: President Rockefeller's 2nd & final SOTU Address

President Rockefeller getting standing ovation during his 2nd & final SOTU Address.

Nelson Aldrich Rockefeller in his 2nd & final State of the Union Address before a joint session of Congress, addressed the nation on a Wednesday night in the US House of Representatives chambers of the US Capitol in Washington, DC.

President Rockefeller: "Speaker O'Neill, Vice President Brooke, members of Congress, members of the Supreme Court; special guests; members of the Diplomatic Corps and my fellow Americans.

On September 5th, 1975, I spoke to you as the newly inaugurated 39th President of the United States. Tragic circumstances put me in this position of sacred trust, following the tragic assassination of President Gerald R. Ford, whose loss we're still mourning and who, together with his dear family, is still in our hearts and also our prayers. At the time, I humbly served in the role as our nation's 41st Vice President as a governing partner to a dedicated American and public servant, who did his very best in healing our nation during the fallout of Watergate and Vietnam and also lead America into the sense of honest, open government. For the ten months that I served as Vice President, I was a proud deputy to a President whom Americans regarded as honest and trustworthy including earning and receiving the goodwill of the American people including the entire world.

During my administration as your 39th President, we've done quite a lot of work: the New York City Seasonal Finance Recovery Act of 1975; pushing legislation and alternatives in fighting the ongoing inflation crisis because I said it again: inflation is our number one enemy has to be defeated with the Whip Inflation Act which I signed into law, many consumers are buying less such as stoppage of purchasing goods, new cars, TV sets and appliances. While the Inflation rate has dropped, it's not good enough to be satisfied with these numbers because inflation needs to be whipped and defeated forever

Under this administration, we've passed a record $356.6 billion federal budget for the fiscal year, which provided the largest deficit spending since World War II in efforts of stimulating the economy. We also successfully made the United States independent of foreign energy imports by accomplishing the following goals: First, we reduced oil imports by 1 million barrels per day by the end of this administration and 2 million barrels. Second, we also worked to successful end vulnerabilities to economic disruption by foreign suppliers. We hope the incoming administration will continue our efforts in reducing dependency on foreign energy imports. Third, we developed our energy technology and resources so that the United States will have the ability to supplying a significant share of the energy needs of the free world by the end of this century.

On foreign affairs: the United States aggressively emphasised the friendship of important allies such as Japan, Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia and the Philippines, Great Britain, France, West Germany, and many countless others too many to name. Our administration assured our allies and longtime friends that the United States remains strong, and the Pacific Doctrine of peace with all and hostility toward none continues. In the Middle East, we've begun the process of Peace Accords between Israel and Egypt including other Middle Eastern countries because it's very significant that peace in the Middle East will be the diplomatic solution in resolving longtime conflicts that have raged on for centuries too long.

I am proud of the part I've played in rebuilding confidence in the Presidency of the United States; confidence in our free system; confidence in the future. Because once again, Americans believe in themselves in their leaders, and in the promise that tomorrow will bring hold for their children and their children's children.

In just about eight days, I will be handing the burdens of the Presidency over to my successor, President-elect Jerry Brown on January 20th, 1977. During the transition, I have told him that millions of Americans have placed their trust in him to lead our nation into the new decade as we've got lots of domestic and international challenges facing us, we all should want the incoming administration to be successful because we're Americans and we have the fighting patriotic spirit in doing everything we can to giving the next generation a good foundation in inheriting of what we've left them.

Once again, it's been a pleasure of serving as your President. It's the amazing honor of a lifetime. God Bless America!"

(Rounds of applause as President Rockefeller shakes hands with Speaker O'Neill & Vice President Brooke before leaving the rostrum.)

 

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AUTHOR'S NOTE: This segment will be updated periodically with fully detailed on the day's happenings & inauguration festivities including other segments. Hope you enjoy!

Thursday, January 20th, 1977
Chapter VII: Moonbeam comes to Washington, DC!
*THE POISONED CHALICE (1977-1981)

40.)
Edmund Gerald "Jerry" Brown, Jr., (D-CA)
January 20th, 1977 to January 20th, 1981
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President Jerry Brown being sworn into office as the 40th President of the United States.

It was a cold Thursday morning in Washington, DC as people were heading over to the East Front grounds of the US Capitol by getting their seats quite early in anticipation of the inauguration of the 40th President of the United States.

Over at the White House, outgoing President Nelson Rockefeller was inside the Oval Office wearing a black turtleneck sweater handling last-minute decisions on domestic, economic, foreign policy & national defense. The time was 5:00 AM EST (Nelson got up quite early around 3:00 AM EST to have one final swim inside the secluded indoor swimming pool before taking a shower, getting dressed & eating breakfast) & he was finishing up some of the details during a final meeting with senior staff members when his confidential secretary Megan Marshak informed him "there's a personal phone call for you Mr. President". Nelson said "I'll take it in the private office"

Inside his private office with the door locked, Nelson answered "Hey there beautiful. You looked sexy during my working state visit last year. It's my final day at work and if there's anything you need..." On the other line was a beautiful young woman speaking softly & quietly, "Baby, I neee to see you tonight. Can you tell your wife that you'll be busy at the Rockefeller Center?" "Just hold off for awhile, I'll figure out a way for us to meet together." It's quite obvious that Nelson was having secret extramarital affairs during his presidency & couldn't control his sexual appetite (more on this detail in the later chapters of the TL).

5:47 AM: Nelson went back into the Oval Office & continued his work on final documents, signing or vetoing legislation.

Fast forward over to the Blair House, President-elect Jerry Brown was drinking a cup of coffee & eating breakfast at 6:57 AM EST with his girlfriend, incoming First Lady Linda Ronstadt. "Wondering what kind of musical concerts you'll have on the South Grounds of the White House Linda?" Jerry joked as she playfully kicked him under the table.

Around 7:30 AM, members of the Brown campaign arrived at the Blair House for last-minute meetings on the upcoming details of the inauguration with the President-elect & among them was incoming White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis, who gave his boss a heads up "We might have problems with the Justice Department becoming a pain in the ass with investigating Bert over the allegations of illegal banking practices back in Georgia. I understand that Jimmy recommend him to you serving as Director of the Office of Management and Budget."

Jerry responded "Jimmy and I discussed this during the pre-inaugural celebration festivities on Tuesday night. Bert mentioned something about stock sale deadlines. We need to focus on today's inauguration!"

The President-elect & his family left the Blair House to attend church services.

In the meantime over at the White House, Nelson was still in the Oval Office working when Megan came inside whispering to him "We had one final escapade in the indoor swimming pool baby" which he told her "Now that I'll unemployed in several hours, we'll have some fun too soon." She went back to her desk to work when White House Chief of Staff Ann C. Whitman asked if the President was in the Oval Office, "Yes he is. I'll let you in."

Whitman mentioned to Nelson about an ongoing international crisis happening "the situation in Peru could get ugly over there". She noticed the President wasn't dressed for the inauguration, "Mr. President, I think you might want to get ready for the inauguration because President-elect Brown will be arriving at the White House soon". Rockefeller response: "Mrs. Whitman, I am a fast dresser, so I'll just sign some more pardons real quick and hand them over to the senior folks at the US Justice Department".

Rockefeller left the Oval Office & got dressed quickly. Happy was waiting inside the family quarters: "Where you've been? President-elect Brown is almost here and we're running quite late, let's hurry up!" Nelson & Happy walked down the stairs discussing their post-White House plans "Wondering how you'll handle real life outside of politics Nelson?" "I can manage being outside of politics Happy. But if things go crazy in the next four years, I might make a comeback in 1980" Nelson joked.

After looking around the East Room for the final time, Whitman intejected, "Mr. President, Vice President and Mrs. Brooke have arrived including the members of the Joint Committee on Presidential Inaugurations". It was during this time that Vice President Brooke & President Rockefeller including their wives discussed retirement plans, etc., "I sure as Hell hope this young kid doesn't fuck up in these four years", Brooke told Rockefeller "Mark my words. He'll realise that he's not in Sacramento and have to deal with Congress, who will not roll over!"

The Brooke's greeted the Carter's outside the White House & exchanged gifts before entering the Executive Mansion. At 9:00 AM EST, the Rockefeller's waited outside & greeted President-elect Jerry Brown & incoming First Lady Linda Ronstadt; pictures were taken as they took a joint photograph before heading into the Executive Mansion where gifts were exchanged including eating cookies & hot tea.

It was time to leave for the inauguration: outgoing President Rockefeller & President-elect Brown rode in the Presidential limousine while Mrs. Rockefeller & Ms. Ronstadt rode in the follow-up limousine; outgoing Vice President Brooke & Vice President-elect Carter rode in the VP limousine while their spouses rode in the follow-up limousine accompanied by vehicles containing the US Secret Service, FBI & other law enforcement agencies making sure no craziness would interrupt this inauguration.

Inside the Presidential limousine, Rockefeller was holding the red phone, being notified on an explosive international situation in Peru; this continued all the way until arriving at the West Front grounds of the US Capitol when Rockefeller hung up.

The temperature was 28 degrees & it was cold outside. Presiding over the inauguration festivities were United States Senators Howard Cannon (D-NV); Robert Byrd (D-WV); Mark Hatfield (R-OR) including US House Speaker Tip O'Neill (D-MA); US House Majority Whip Jim Wright (D-TX) & US House Minority Leader John Jacob Rhodes (R-AZ).

Musical performances came from Aretha Franklin, who sung "God Bless America"; Willie Nelson singing "Crazy"; The cast members of the Broadway play 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue singing "Take Care of this House" & the United States Marine Band performing "America the Beautiful".

At 11:27 AM EST: Speaker O'Neill administered the oath of office to Vice President-elect Jimmy Carter, who was sworn into office on the Carter family Bible held by his wife, Rosalynn:

"I, Jimmy Carter, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evation. And that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I'm about to enter. So help me God."

******("Hail Columbia" is performed by the United States Marine Band as Vice President Carter kisses his wife, Rosalynn & hugs his family. He shakes hands with former Vice President Brooke, outgoing President Rockefeller & President-elect Brown).
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Following a musical performance by the North Carolina State University Mass Choir, it was time for the administering of the Oath of Office to President-elect Brown, who will be sworn into office by US Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren Burger at 11:55 AM EST, Brown was sworn into office on the Micah 6:8 Bible, which was held by his girlfriend Linda Ronstadt.

"I, Edmund Gerald Brown, Jr., do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States. And will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. So help me God."
******("Hail to the Chief" is performed by the United States Marine Band as the 21 Cannon Salute is loudly fired by the Presidential Salute Battery Unit).
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At 12:00 PM EST, Edmund Gerald Brown, Jr., became the 40th President of the United States as he kisses his girlfriend, Linda; embraced by his family; shakes hands with former President Nelson Rockefeller, former First Lady Happy Rockefeller; former Vice President Edward Brooke & former Second Lady Remigia Brooke.

The Cannon Salute is still firing even while Senator Cannon to the podium: "I have the honor to introduce to the American people the 40th President of the United States, the Honorable Edmund G. Brown, Jr.," (Standing ovation & rounds of applause).

President Jerry Brown: "Chief Justice Burger, Vice President Carter, President Rockefeller, Vice President Brooke, Chairman Cannon and the members of the Joint Committee on Presidential Inaugurations, members of the international community and my fellow Americans: I cannot express how much humbled and honored I am of taking the sacred Oath of Office and standing here today. A day, that I could've have imagined in just a few short years that I've served in public office. So let me begin by thanking everyone for their congratulations and good wishes I had received over the past days and weeks. Let me use this opportunity to personally thank President Rockefeller for his decades of public service to our nation. On behalf of myself and the American people, thank you very much Mr. President for doing everything you can to healing our nation in tough circumstances. Please join me in thanking President Nelson Rockefeller and First Lady Happy Rockefeller (rounds of applause).

Sixteen years ago, John Fitzgerald Kennedy stood behind this podium and took the oath of office as the 35th President of the United States. His administration marked the era of the torch being passed from one generation of American leaders to another. In his speech, President Kennedy, in his speech, challenged Americans from all walks of life in rolling up their sleeves and building our own future: "Ask not, what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country," he said. And of course, Americans did. We overcame the dark shadows of segregation and Jim Crow, we sent a man to the moon and we made the world a safer place with the end of the Cuban Missile Crisis, which avoided nuclear war between two major superpowers although his administration lasted one thousand day. It was under President Lyndon Baines Johnson, our 36th President, who continued the New Frontier and accomplished so much such as signing major civil rights legislation: the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Voting Rights Act of 1965, Civil Rights Act of 1968, Fair Housing Act of 1968; President Johnson also introduced the Great Soicety, where he decalred an all-out war on poverty including successful accomplishments such as Medicaid and Medicare.

My fellow Americans, let me say it right here and right now: we are in the Era of Limits and we all had better get used to it. Over the past few years, we've seen extreme mistrust of our federal government by targeting American citizens for opposing political viewpoints on major policy agenda items; the Watergate scandal which brought down a former President, who resigned in disgrace; chaotic and humiliating defeat in the Vietnam War, a war that bitterly divided the American people as well as the economic struggles with inflation still here with us. While we're in the tailend of the 1970s, it is important that this new generation of leaders are responsible in deciding on whether it'll be a decade of lasting peace and prosperity or a decade of division and chaos. We need to make sure that this decade is one with progress, lasting peace and making our nation quite whole. I am strongly fully committed to doing my part, but I cannot do this alone.

In order to resolving the inflation and economic crises that have haunted us, we need to find ways in overcoming these challenges. During the first 100 days, my administration will be proposing a detailed comprehensive economic recovery program to Congress. Lawmakers of both political parties will be invited in contributing their ideas because I believe this will make any program better in making our economy stronger.

My fellow Americans, I am aware that the vision of my administration in the next four years will be a challenge for us. It requires not only detail-oriented, but hardworking efforts, and decisive action in getting things done. From the federal, state and local governments, you will get a government of, for and by the people. From the small business owners, entrepreneurs, industry owners, from each of everyone of you in attendance in this inauguration ceremony. There will be of course, some setbacks and disappointments even falling short of our goals. One thing is certain: Do NOT bet against America. One nation under God, can fulfill the entire promise of America as a beacon of opportunity and hope to the world. It's in our hands. Let's get it done. It's time to get to work by beginning this journey here and today.

Thank you all very much for coming and listening, may God Bless America!"

Conclusion of the Inauguration festivities:
Following the Inauguration ceremonies in front of the East Front of the US Capitol, President Brown & Vice President Carter, accompanied by Ms. Ronstadt & Mrs. Carter, attended the departure of former President Nelson Rockefeller & his wife, Happy including former Vice President Edward W. Brooke, III & his wife, Remigia. The Brooke's shook hands with the Rockefeller's, President Brown & Ms. Ronstadt including the members of the Joint Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies before being escorted to their limousine by the Carter's; the Brooke's got inside their limousine & were driven all the way toward Union Station, where they got into the special train, which took them all the way back to Boston, MA.

Next, President Brown & Ms. Ronstadt accompanied the Rockefeller's all the way to Marine One, where handshakes by the 39th & 40th President occurred; Ms. Rondstadt & Mrs. Rockefeller hugged & kiss before saying goodbye. The Rockefeller's boarded into Marine One, which took off from the West Front of the US Capitol, which took them off to Andrews Air Force Base in Camp Springs, MD. Before going on board Special Air Mission 39, Rockefeller was given a 21 Cannon Salute, reviewed the US Armed Forces troops during the final Honor Guard inspection; the former President thanked the servicemen & servicewomen of the US Armed Forces for their service before the Rockefeller's boarded the aircraft which took them back to Albany, NY St, where a special "Thank You" ceremony was held.

Back over inside the US Capitol, President Jerry Brown signed formal letters for cabinet & executive appointments including presidential proclamations. The traditional inaugural lunch was cancelled at the request of President Brown. Later in the day, a large inaugural parade was held on the North Portico Grounds of the White House, which lasted more than 3 HRS & 57 minutes. Once the Inaugural Parade was finished, President Brown & Ms. Ronstadt entered the White House in preparing for the inaugural ball later that evening.

 

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Friday, January 21st, 1977

BREAKING NEWS: President Brown signs the first executive orders of his Presidency: ordering hiring freeze; aiming government transparency & halting military aid to Pakistan.

President Brown meeting with ordinary Americans during the first couple of days of his administration.

In his first full day in office, President Jerry Brown signed a flurry of executive orders inside the Oval Office at the White House ranging from domestic, economic & foreign policy.

Now the first executive order was obligatory in all Presidential administrations: hiring freeze for the entire executive branch of the federal government, which is usually implemented once new administrations take office.

The second decree formed a presidential committee which will be chaired by incoming US Treasury Secretary W. Michael Blumenthal which also consists of several well-known economists. Other members of the committee include Vice President Jimmy Carter & White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis.

Third decree formed another presidential commission in working out a bipartisan update on the stalled Puerto Rico Statehood Admissions Act, which had been blocked by conservatives such as United States Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC) for the past 4 years. President Brown during the campaign, expressed strong support of the US territory gaining statehood & pledged to sign legislation into law making Puerto Rico the 51st State. During the Fall of 1976, Puerto Ricans voted overwhelmingly for achieving statehood in a referendum with 73% of the vote. US Rep. Henry B. Gonzalez (D-TX) immediately filed legislation sponsoring the Puerto Rico Statehood Admissions Act in the House with several key co-sponsors while the Senate is working on similar legislation.

Fourth decree includes a major presidential committee/commission in bipartisan update for the Freedom of Information Act in the aftermath of the Watergate scandals. The legislation strengthens government accountability & transparency. Vice President Carter was also named chair of this commission, as Carter was already an outspoken supporter & advocate of improved government transparency measures during his time as GA Governor. With this move, the 40th President has fulfilled a campaign pledge.

Final executive order signed by President Brown halted all additional military aid to Pakistan. This didn't touch the aid & arms delivered that had been authorized by the Nixon, Ford & Rockefeller administrations. This enraged Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who had enjoyed warm relations with Presidents Richard Nixon (1969-1974), Gerald Ford (1974-1975) & Nelson Rockefeller (1975-1977). Brown also signed an executive order placing a trade embargo on Pakistan by aggressively tightening it on the South Asian country with the intent of forcing a regime change. Brown, through US Ambassador to Pakistan US Army Brigadier General Henry Byroade, who sent the controversial Bhutto government the message. There was good reason why the Brown administration was getting aggressive with Pakistan: the socialist leanings of the Bhutto government including the extreme left-wing policies had angered the United States, with some foreign policy analysts fearing the loss of Pakistan as an ally to the Soviet Union in the midst of the Cold War. Brown also announced his staunch opposition to Bhutto, his government & the elections.

January 24th, 1977: Foreign Policy Challenge for the Brown administration: Souring of US-Pakistan relations as Bhutto escalates anti-American rhetoric
In response to President Brown's actions, Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfikar Al Bhutto quickly launched a more aggressive & serious diplomatic offensive attack on the United States including the West over the issue of nuclear weapons, a topic which Brown pledged during the campaign & during his inaugural address on January 20th, to abolish by any means necessary. Bhutto called President Brown's policy of disengaging with Pakistan "Outright stupid with no serious foreign policy objective. Would this jackass destroy 30 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Pakistan all over his dumb campaign pledge of ban nuclear weapons?"

Later in the day during a press conference at the US State Department, President Brown doubled-down on placing an economic embargo on Pakistan. Observers state that Brown has been more cautious about foreign countries that he referred to as "not sharing the values of America over freedom and human rights." In his recent decree, the President concluded that "any additional aid economic or defense, funded by the American taxpayers, hasn't proven to being in the vital interests of the United States or any of its vital allies." During the press conference, President Brown said his administration will be beginning new diplomatic efforts in resolving foreign conflicts with innovative ideas & that a presidential memorandum was coming soon when asked by a reporter from ABC News.

January 25th, 1977: US Senate confirms Mondale & Davis

Two of the most important foreign policy cabinet members were confirmed by the Senate on Day 5 of the Brown administration: Former United States Senator Walter Mondale (D-MN), who resigned his US Senate seat in late December 1976, received 92 votes while 7 voted against his nomination to become US Secretary of State. Meanwhile, retired USAF Lieutenant General Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., who was the commander of the famous Tuskegee Airmen, was overwhelmingly confirmed as the next US Secretary of Defense with 99 Yeahs & 0 Nays. Davis became the first African American to serve as US Secretary of Defense, which was a very historic moment.

Both Secretaries Mondale & Davis were sworn into office by Vice President Jimmy Carter respectively (Mondale at the US Department of State; Davis at the Pentagon). Less than 24 HRS later, Secretary of State Mondale & Defense Secretary Davis went aboard for a joint diplomatic trip. The first stop was to Great Britain for government consultations with British Prime Minister James Callaghan, before they headed to Paris, France & ultimately Bonn, West Germany. The duo later flew to Israel & Egypt, where they met with Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, Israeli President Ephraim Katzir & Egyptian President Anwar Sadat to discuss the developments of the Middle East Peace Accords between both countries.

January 27th, 1977: Group of 16 GOP United States Senators announce their staunch opposition to the nomination of US Rep. Andrew Young (D-GA) as US Ambassador to the United Nations.

On Day 7 of the Brown administration, a group of 16 GOP United States Senators Jesse Helms (R-NC) & John Tower (R-TX) have issued a joint statement formally announcing their staunch opposition of US Rep. Andrew Young (D-GA) as Ambassador to the United Nations. The group, which consists of both members of the conservative & moderate wings of the GOP, claimed potential conflicts of interests & lack of foreign policy experience as their reasoning for their opposition. In the statement, it reads: "While we recognize Congressman Young's integrity and sincere efforts on public service in helping this country, we don't believe Congressman Young is qualified nor best suited to occupy the important position of Ambassador to the United Nations. One of the important foreign policy positions in a presidential administration requires standing up for American values, foreign policy objectives and leading our nation's interest at the United Nations' General Assembly. This also requires an understanding of how foreign policy works. We came to the conclusion, after reviewing controversial comments and outspoken radical policies, that President Brown withdraw this nomination in the best interest of the nation and present an alternative choice to the United States Senate." In response, a group of Dem United States Senators led by Majority Whip Alan Cranston (D-CA) & Daniel Inoyue (D-HI) dismissed the statement & announced their support for Congressman Young after meeting with him.

Minority Leader Howard Baker (R-TN), a moderate-to-conservative GOPer, hasn't committed which he's going about whether to support or oppose the nomination. However, the two men are expected to meet sometime after February 6th & Baker could announce his decision by then. Sources from the White House reported that Vice President Jimmy Carter is lobbying behind the scenes to get Young's nomination over the finish line, talking to many United States Senators particularly from the South.

January 28th, 1977: White House announces Arizona Summit between President Brown & President Peron in mid-May

Eight days into office, spokesperson for the White House confirmed that a meeting between Argentine President Isabel Martinez de Peron & President Jerry Brown would be taking place in mid-May. The informal summit was agreed upon during a telephone conversation between the Heads of State & a first meeting between Argentine Foreign Affairs Minister Raul Alberto Quijano & US Secretary of State Walter Mondale in Paris, France during a sidelines meeting. A mansion near Paradise Valley, AZ was chosen as the location. In recent years, tensions between the United States & Argentina had escalated due to CIA-backed military coups, etc.,

Sources from Buenos Aires said that Peron was eager for a face-to-face meeting with the new American President, who was an unknown quantity within the Casa Rosada before securing the Democratic nomination & ultimately defeating then-Vice President Brooke in the November general election. Argentine officials have expressed their willingness to continue peaceful cordial diplomatic relations including potential diplomatic solutions to resolving the Falkland Islands conflict between Argentina & Great Britain, which had damaged diplomatic relations between Buenos Aires & London.

January 31st, 1977: President Brown naming former President Rockefeller to serve as US Ambassador to Spain

11 days since taking office, President Brown was busy working 24/7 which included implementing new foreign policy alternatives & putting major pieces of legislation into place for Congress to pass, the 40th President decided to use another political u-turn..... by announcing he was nominating former President Nelson Rockefeller to serve as US Ambassador to Spain pending Senate confirmation.

Rockefeller, who has maintained a low profile since leaving office on January 20th, was surprised when Brown called him over the phone to inform him of his decision. "I am honored to continue serving my country in a new role and will be looking forward to serving as the next United States Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain. I greatly appreciate President Brown in making this important decision of nominating me in representing the United States by emphasizing the diplomatic relations between the United States and Spain."

COMING UP IN CHAPTER VII OF THE CURSED AMERICAN PRESIDENCY: Segments on National & International Highlights

 

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COMING SOON IN CHAPTER VII OF THE CURSED AMERICAN PRESIDENCY
President Jerry Brown's State Visits to Europe, Latin America & Asia

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February 4th, 1977: President Brown delivers fireside chat address.
Two weeks after coming to the Presidency, President Jerry Brown made his first televised address to the American people since his inauguration as the 40th President of the United States on January 20th. Wearing a sweater with the Presidential emblem & seated in the White House library, he discussed his campaign promises & reaffirmed his intention of carrying them out.

February 5th, 1977: White House spokesperson confirmed President Brown issues pardons of draft dodgers

Fulfilling one of his campaign pledges, President Brown issued a pardon to the approximately ten thousand young men who evaded the draff during the Vietnam War. Later in the year, he made it possible for the 433,000 veterans who had been given less than honorable discharges to have their cases reviewed & almost all of them took advantage of the opportunity.

Critics such as United States Senator Barry Goldwater (R-AZ) referring to Brown's pardoning of the draft evaders as "cowardly pandering stupidity".

February 6th, 1977: Emergency legislation signed by President Brown

President Brown signed emergency legislation, which requested Congress to easing out the natural gas shortages in the Northeastern States, where the worst winter of the 20th Century had brought about gas shortages that closed many factories & schools.

February 7th, 1977: Stennis, Eastland voice opposition to Young's nomination as UN Ambassador

The opposition to the nomination of US Rep. Andrew Young (D-GA) as UN Ambassador continues; this time coming from Southern conservative Democratic United States Senators John Stennis (D-MS) & James Eastland (D-MS) who expressed their staunch opposition to the nomination. Eastland used derogatory comments in why he opposed Congressman Young's nomination: "That boy is unqualified and he's just too inexperienced and too uppity to represent this country as Ambassador to the United Nations." Stennis agreed with the sentiment by smiling during the press conference. Asked if there will be more Senators coming out to announce their opposition: Stennis replied "I strongly believe so. These allegations into Congressman Young's past are very troubling and disturbing. We also have credible FBI files which we will expose to the public to show the American people that this so-called nominee doesn't have the leadership abilities, capabilities, discipline or grasp of how foreign policy works."

February 8th, 1977
BREAKING NEWS: Explosive bombshells engulfing OMB nominee Bert Lance

The nomination of Bert Lance to serve as Director of the Office of Management and Budget, ran into huge snags when it was revealed that the Justice Department under the Rockefeller administration investigated Lance for possible prosecution for illegal banking practices, but dropped the investigation due to lack of evidence.

Due to countless news stories covering alleging that Lance had improperly obtained $3.4 million loan to buy 207,000 shares of GA bank stock. Other news stories revealed Lance was being investigated by various governmental agencies for his past activities in the banking business; Lance's nomination was blocked by United States Senator Charles Percy (R-IL) demanding that President Brown withdraw the Lance nomination.

February 9th, 1977: Krueger announcing candidacy for the United States Senate in 1978

Over in the Lone Star State, US Rep. Bob Krueger (D-TX) announced during a television interview with CBS 5 KENS-TV San Antonio that he will be running for the United States Senate in 1978 challenging incumbent United States Senator John Tower (R-TX) ,who will be seeking reelection to a third full six-year term.

Political observers believe this could be a potential close election.

February 10th, 1977: Vice President Carter called to testify at Senate Subcommittee investigating Lance

Vice President Jimmy Carter was personally given a subpoena during a special event at the Number One Observatory Circle. The subpoena detailed that Carter must be called to testify before the Senate Subcommittee on Ethics or face criminal contempt. VP Chief of Staff Hamilton Jordan blasted the Subcommittee's investigation as a smear campaign.

February 11th, 1977: Puerto Rico Statehood Admissions Act passes overwhelmingly; President Brown signs it into law.

Following the overwhelming passage of the Puerto Rico Statehood Admissions Act: the House of Representatives passed it by a vote of 373-25 while the Senate approved it 81-18 later that afternoon. President Brown signed it into law during a Rose Garden ceremony at the White House surrounded by Puerto Rico Statehood advocates including prominent Puerto Rican politicians such as Puerto Governor Carlos Romero Barcelo (PNP) .

February 13th, 1977: Romero confirms that elections for US Senate seats; House seats will take place in May.

Less than two days after attending the signing ceremony at the White House of the Puerto Rico Statehood Admissions Act, Puerto Rico Governor Carlos Romero Barcelo (PNP) held a press conference about the success of the legislation making the US Territory as the 51st State. He also affirmed that elections for the Commonwealth's two US Senate seats & two US House seats will be taking place on May 5th. Barcelo said "It's very significant that the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico has two United States Senators and two members of the US House of Representatives to represent Puerto Ricans."

 

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February 13th, 1977: Former President Nelson Rockefeller overwhelmingly confirmed as the next US Ambassador to Spain by the United States Senate

US Ambassador to Spain Nelson Rockefeller greeting King Juan Carlos I of Spain at the Zarzuela Palace near Madrid after presenting his credentials.

The United States Senate voted overwhelmingly 83-0 in confirming former President Nelson Rockefeller as the next US Ambassador to Spain. Following being sworn into office by US Secretary of State Walter Mondale, Rockefeller boarded his private plane & flew to Madrid, Spain where he was driven to the Zarzuela Palace & Arrival Honors were held including an Honor Guard inspection before being escorted inside the Palace to present his credentials to King Juan Carlos I.

February 13th, 1977: Guys & Dolls closes at Broadway Theater NYC following 239 performances.

February 15th, 1977: Social Democrats win the parliamentary elections in Denmark.

February 18th, 1977: George Harrison, formerly of the Beattles, releases True Love album.

February 19th, 1977: Shuttle Enterprise makes first test flight atop 747 jetliner.

February 20th, 1977: My Fair Lady closes at the St. James Theater NYC following 384 performances.

February 21st, 1977: The controversial Unification Church officiates the mass wedding of couples in NYC, NY St.

February 23rd, 1977: Oscar Romero becomes Archbishop of San Salvador, El Salvador.

February 24th, 1977: President Jerry Brown announced US foreign aid will consider human rights.

February 25th, 1977: Oil tanker explosion west of Honolulu, HI spills 31 million gallons of oil.

 

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The Jerry Brown Administration since January 20th, 1977
President: Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown, Jr.,
Vice President: James E. "Jimmy" Carter, Jr.,
Secretary of State: Walter Mondale
Secretary of the Treasury: W. Michael Blumenthal
Secretary of Defense: Benjamin O. Davis, Jr.,
Attorney General: Barbara Jordan
Secretary of the Interior: Cecil Andrus
Secretary of Agriculture: John C. White
Secretary of Commerce: Juanita M. Kreps
Secretary of Labor: Ray Marshall
Secretary of Health, Education & Welfare: Joseph Califano, Jr.,
Secretary of Housing & Urban Development: Patricia Roberts Harris
Secretary of Transportation: Brock Adams
Secretary of Energy: James R. Schlesinger
Director of the Office of Management & Budget: TBD
US Trade Representative: Robert Strauss
US Ambassador to the United Nations: TBD
National Security Adviser: Cyrus Vance
Chairman of the Council of Economic Affairs: Charles Schultze
White House Chief of Staff: Joseph G. "Gray" Davis, Jr.,

 

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February 12th, 1977: Gallup Polling Survey

*President Jerry Brown Job Approval Rating
Approval: 63%
Disapprove: 27%

Favorabilities:
President Jerry Brown (D)
Favorable: 61%
Unfavorable: 13%
Undecided: 25%

Vice President Jimmy Carter (D)
Favorable: 51%
Unfavorable: 21%
Undecided: 21%

First Lady Linda Ronstadt (D)
Favorable: 73%
Unfavorable: 16%

Second Lady Rosalynn Carter (D)
Favorable: 85%
Unfavorable: 12%
Undecided: 3%

Secretary of State Walter Mondale (D)
Favorable: 37%
Unfavorable: 21%
Undecided: 39%

Secretary of Defense Benjamin O. Davis, Jr.,
Favorable: 63%
Unfavorable: 16%
Undecided: 12%

US House Speaker Tip O'Neill (D-MA)
Favorable: 40%
Unfavorable: 29%
Undecided: 13%

US Senate Majority Leader Robert Byrd (D-WV)
Favorable: 59%
Unfavorable: 32%
Undecided: 6%

US Senate Minority Leader Howard Baker (R-TN)
Favorable: 37%
Unfavorable: 25%
Undecided: 31%

 

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February 28th, 1977: President Brown delivers Joint Session to Congress speech

President Jerry Brown delivers Special Address to Joint Session of Congress.

Sergeant-at-Arms: "Mr. Speaker. The President of the United States!"

President Brown was welcomed to a grand standing ovation, when he entered the US House of Representatives chambers for the first time in his tenure as the nation's 40th President. He devoted the majority of his speech on promoting & presenting his economic agenda, particularly the 1977 Economic Stimulus Package Act. Over the previous five days, the chief executive had retreated from the White House to Camp David or sometimes in the suburbs of Sacramento, CA., for extensive preparations, joined by First Lady Linda Ronstadt, White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis, US Treasury Secretary W. Michael Blumenthal & US Labor Secretary Ray Marshall.

"My fellow Americans. 1977 will be the year of getting ourselves up and getting back to work as well as bringing back our economy," he opened during his 47-minute speech, "what I am presenting before members of Congress tonight isn't just another piece of legislation, it's pretty much a specific, detailed blueprint of regaining the American Dream. And this time, for all of our fellow countrymen and women."

The details on the 1977 Economic Stimulus Package Act was outlined by President Brown with the following objectives:
*Minimum wage increase from $3.50 to $5.29 by January 1st, 1979
*$473 billion in public infrastructure programs
*Accelerated deductions with special programs for small businesses, including women-owned & minority-owned businesses.
*Phased-in 20% cut in individual tax rates over two years; top rate increase to 75%.

President Brown singled out United States Senators Lawton Chiles (D-FL), L. Douglas Wilder (D-VA), J. Bennett Johnston (D-LA) & US Rep. Morris Udall (D-AZ), who were the main congressional proponents & co-sponsors of the legislation.

Foreign policy played a short-term role in the speech, which President Brown devoted at least twelve minutes to various subjects: his upcoming summit meeting with Argentine President Isabel Peron. Brown also once again, doubled-down on his decision to halting all military & economic aid to Pakistan, saying the Nixon, Ford & Rockefeller administrations had already large enough shipments of aid to the Pakistani government, etc., He even went further by questioning on whether anybody with despicable human rights violations was really an ally of American values. Without naming countries or particular leaders, President Brown bluntly said: "With the ugly situations happening in Latin America, Asia, Africa or even Europe. We have to be honest with some of the countries in question on whether they are truly allies of the United States or even strategic trading partners on an economic sense. For too long, we've looked the other way across the world by stating one country is fighting alleged outside forces and saying they're strong allies of America while these particular countries in question have committed such horrific human rights violations such as torturing innocent people including men, women and even children. While previous administrations justified looking the other way, I want to strongly say that under this administration, I beg to differ and things will be different from now on."

The Republican Party response to President Brown's speech came from United States Senator John Tower (R-TX), who accused the Brown administration of showcasing weakness on the international stage by using disastrous foreign policy objectives; bringing up the President's abrupt controversial decision of halting military & economic aid to Pakistan. "With all due respect, Mr. President, it seems that your administration is hell-bent on alienating allies and friends across the world with your blunders which will be exploited by our enemies."

March 15th, 1977: Mexican First Lady Fernanda Arizmendi begins months-long Goodwill Tour

Mexican First Lady Fernanda Arizmendi, the wife of Mexican President General Oscar Robles, embarked on a rigorous months-long Goodwill Tour of Africa & the Middle East by meeting with countless dignitaries & heads of state such as the following: Kenyan President Jomo Kenyatta, II; Liberian President William R. Tolbert, Jr.,; Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo; Senegalese President Leopold Sedar Senghor; Sierra Leone President Siaka Stevens; Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda; King Sobhuza II of Swaziland; Egyptian President Anwar Sadat; Tunisian President Habib Bourguiba; Ethopian President Lieutenant Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam; Algerian President Houari Boumediene; King Hussein II of Jordan among countless others.

BREAKING NEWS: LANCE CONFIRMED AS OMB DIRECTOR
Following a dragged-out confirmation process, Bert Lance was finally confirmed as the next Director of the Office of Management & Budget by a vote of 59-40 in the United States Senate.

Questions still remain about Lance's stock financial disclosures.

 

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March 17th, 1977
President Brown addresses the UN General Assembly in NYC
With the uncertainty surrounding the fate of his nominee for US Ambassador to the United Nations undecided in the United States Senate, President Jerry Brown delivered his first address before the UN General Assembly in NYC, NY St. He called upon all nations to dedicate themselves to persistent efforts to maintaining peace & reduction of the arms race.

Brown also called for all nations in the world to building up a better & more cooperative international economic system & work with friends & potential adversaries to advance the cause of human rights.

March 19th, 1977: Vice President Carter casts tie-breaking vote in US Senate; Young confirmed as US Ambassador to the United Nations

After a long-dragged out escalating dispute, US Rep. Andrew Young (D-GA) was finally confirmed as the next US Ambassador to the United Nations. This happened as the nomination was being blocked by segregationist conservative Southern Democrats & right-wing conservative Republicans, who voiced strong opposition to Congressman Young's nomination.

Vice President Jimmy Carter arrived on the Senate floor & broke the tie, confirming the nomination. Later in the afternoon, Young resigned his House seat which will be vacant until GA Governor George Busbee (D) will announce details for upcoming special election; the next morning, Young was sworn into office as the Ambassador to the United Nations by Vice President Carter at the US Department of State. Following a short impromptu inaugural address, Young boarded a private jet & flew to NYC almost immediately to begin his new job.

March 20th, 1977: Congress Party loses control of the Indian government
Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi lost her parliamentary seat & the Congress Party, which has been dominating India since it gained independence in 1947, lost control of the government. Her youngest son, Sanjay Gandhi, who was running for a seat in Parliament, was also defeated. Of the 542 seats inside the lower house, the Janata Party captured 270 & gained support from the Democratic Party, which won 28 seats. The Congress Party won 153 seats..

March 21st, 1977: President Brown hosts first foreign leader at the White House

Japanese Prime Minister Takeo Fukuda, during a visit to the United States, strongly urged President Brown to maintain US military forces in the western Pacific to preserve stability in the area. Brown responded that he'll consult with both the Japanese & Korean governments on possible negotiations about transferring operational control of US military bases to the respective countries.

March 24th, 1977: Desai inaugurated as Prime Minister of India
Moraji R. Desai waa inaugurated as the 4th Prime Minister of India replacing Indira Gandhi, who left office after 11 years. The 81-year-old leader of the Janata Party pledged to eliminate the mood of the fear that had settled over the South Asian country during the 21-month national emergency.

March 25th, 1977: Brown withdraws all US military personnel troops out of Thailand; fallout over the USS Mayaguez incident overwhelming factor

Accepting the explicit demands of the Thai government, President Brown withdrew all US military personnel troops effective immediately. Observers believe the move was considered as a measure of mending strained diplomatic ties between Washington & Bangkok that had been severely damaged during the Ford administration in the controversial military operation during the USS Mayaguez Incident in the Summer of 1975.

It's uncertain on whether Brown will also revoke the Mutual Defense Treaty with Thailand as well. When asked about Brown's controversial withdrawal of all US military personnel troops out of Thailand, United States Senator Russell B. Long (D-LA) called the decision: "downright pathetic and sends the wrong message to our allies."

 

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March 29th, 1977: Brooke's divorcing per media reports

November 8th, 1972: The Brooke's during happier times.

Former Vice President Edward W. Brooke, III & his wife, former Second Lady Remigia Brooke announced in a joint statement that after 30 years, they will be divorcing. The Boston Globe & other local Boston television stations confirmed the report via the former Vice President's office. In the statement, it read "while we tried hard to working out differences, it appears that we'v been growing apart & that divorce is the final solution. Privacy must be respected during this time."

March 30th, 1977: Soviets reject US plans for limiting arms
Leonid I. Brezhnev, General Secretary of the USSR Communist Party, rejected as "inequitable" two alternative proposals made in Moscow by US Secretary of State Walter Mondale to limit nuclear arms. President Brown expressed disappointment, but promised to continue the complicated diplomatic negotiations in the hope that satisfactory accord could be retained before the expiration of the 5-year limited agreement on missiles.

April 1st, 1977: Geisel aggressively strengthening military government
Brazilian President General Ernesto Geisel suspended the Brazilian National Congress indefinitely after the center-left opposition blocked passage of government-sponsored judicial reform bill. Opponents of the bill claimed it didn't restore the right of habeus corpus to political prisoners or protecting judges from government pressure. Later in the month, in another blow at the growing strength of the minority party, Geisel decreed indirect future elections for the President, State Governors, & one-third of the Senators.

US Senate adopts rigorous ethics code
In a move to bolster public confidence in Congress, the US Senate approved strict codes of conduct by a vote of 86-9. Similar to but more stringent than one adopted by the House in March, the Senate code included provisions for extensive financial disclosure & for perioidc audits by the General Accounting Office. It also provided for $8,625 yearly limit on outside earned income of Senate members, including fees for speeches.

April 6th, 1977: Brown signs bill permitting government reorganisation

President Brown signed legislation that restored to the White House wide authority to undertaking changes in the structure of the Executive Branch of the US government, subject to veto from either house of Congress.

April 13th, 1977: Congressional Term Limits Initiative on the ballot set for Fall 1977
Answering President Brown's call for holding members of Congress accountable during his successful 1976 presidential campaign & during his recent Special Address to Joint Session of Congress on February 28th, Americans in all 50 States filed citizen petition drives requiring term limits on members of Congress. Despite attempts at trying to block the initiative, US Federal District Court of Appeals ruled in favor of putting the controversial measure on the ballot set for November 1977.

Named "The Era of Limits Congressional Accountability Initiative", it's detailed like this:
*US House of Representatives: 6 2-year terms
*US Senate: 2 6-year terms
*Prohibits term limited members of Congress from seeking reelection to their current positions after serving out their eligibility.
*Grandfather Clause is included to those, who've been elected prior to the adoption of this amendment.

 

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April 13th, 1977: Mexican First Lady visits Saudi Arabia
In the midst of her long Goodwill Tour, Mexican First Lady Fernanda Arizmendi visited the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where she attended a Courtesy Call meeting with Crown Prince Basaam & his wife, Princess Naureen. They discussed Mexican/Saudi Arabian diplomatic relations. Later that evening, a State Banquet was held at the Royal Palace in Riyadh.

During her three day visit, Arizmendi visited children's hospital & donated $6.6 million to the newly-built medical center dealing with cancer research, etc.,

April 14th, 1977: First Lady Linda Ronstadt temporarily halting musical career

In an in-depth interview with ABC's Barbara Walters, First Lady Linda Ronstadt announced that she will be temporarily halting her musical career while her domestic partner, President Jerry Brown is in office. She explained that it wouldn't look good for anyone having a First Lady performing concerts all over the world with a group of Secret Service agents following non-stop. "I will be a full-time First Lady and while I will not give up singing, don't be surprised if you see some concerts at the White House for military veterans and their families." Ronstadt also discussed: holding tours of the White House with schoolchildren, getting used to living in the White House, etc.,

April 15th, 1977: Former First Lady Betty Ford hospitalized
ABC 7 KABC-TV Los Angeles reported that former First Lady Betty Ford, the wife of the late President Gerald Ford, was taken to a hospital for medical checkup in Palm Springs. No further details were given.

HE'S IN: Younger announces campaign for the CA Governor's Mansion in 1978
Buyoed by his successful aggressive prosecution in the murder trail of Squeaky Fromme, who was found guilty of assassinating then-President Ford on September 5th, 1975, two-term CA State Attorney General Evelle J. Younger (R) declared he will be running for the Governorship in 1978 against CA Governor Mervyn Dymally (D), who will be seeking his first full four-year term. Younger explained during his announcement speech: "The State of California is at an inflection point. We need strong law and order to protect Californians from rising violent crime, political corruption and cronyism in Sacramento; the status quo isn't going to solve our problems such as inflation, getting tough on crime, political corruption and an out of control budget shortfall."

Brewing War of Words: Park slanders Brown's peacetalk call of removing nuclear weapons as "f***ing stupid"; calls him "Son of a *****"!
Caught on a hot-mic, Korean President Park Chung-hee launched insults at the controversial proposal by US President Jerry Brown to remove all nuclear weapons throughout the world : "fucking stupid because nobody will pay him any attention." Park went further when asked about backlash of Brown removing nuclear ground military personnel troops: "That STUPID asshole doesn't know what could happen to the Asian Pacific if he does this bullshit. After what happened in Thailand, that dumb jackass from California is one dumb son of a bitch. He's lucky I didn't have him SHOT!"

Korean Prime Minister Choi Kyu-hah, who was visiting the United States during a three-day visit, was reportedly scolded by President Brown & White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis, who threatened to cut off all military & economic aid to the Republic of Korea. Davis told Choi: "Prime Minister Choi, with all due respect, you do NOT want to know what could happen to Korea in the case of zero military and economic supoort from the West if North Korea decides to invade your country."

Park, who's been in power since successfully taking power in military coup d'etat on May 16th, 1961 before winning the Presidency in 1963 & winning reelection in 1967, 1971 & again in 1972, has undergone an off-on relationship with the United States. He has feuded with then-Presidents John F. Kennedy (1961-1963) & Richard Nixon (1969-1974) but got along well with Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-1969); Gerald Ford (1974-1975) & Nelson Rockefeller (1975-1977).

SECDEF Davis visits Australia, Taiwan, Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, Singapore, Korea in Pacific Tour
US Secretary of Defense Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., was quite busy during his visits to Australia (April 13th-15th); Taiwan (April 15th-19th); Philippines (April 19th-23rd); Japan (April 23rd-25th); Indonesia (April 25th-26th); Singapore (April 26th-29th) & Korea (April 29th-May 3rd).

In Taiwan, Secretary Davis addressed the 28,000 US military personnel troops at Camp Eisenhower on the morning hours of April 16th & had lunch with the troops. Davis met with Taiwanese President Yen Chia-kan at the Presidential Office Building in Taipei where he confirmed the Brown administration is working on transferring operational control of US military bases to the Taiwanese Armed Forces. The Mutual Defense Treaty will also remain intact forever according to sources.

Davis previously visited Australia, where he held bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart & watched joint drill military exercises between US & Australian military troops.

Next on the itinerary: Philippines, where Davis met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos during a Courtesy Call at Malacanang Palace; held joint press conference with Philippine National Defense Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile at the Department of National Defense; addressed US & Philippine military personnel troops during special town hall meeting with the troops; visited Coregidor Island.

In Japan: Secretary Davis met with Japanese Prime Minister Takeo Fukuda, where they discussed maintaining US military forces in the Western Pacific in order to preserving stability in the region. Davis also attended military exercises between US Forces Japan & the Japanese Self Defense Forces.

During a stopover visit to Indonesia, Davis strongly reassured Indonesian President Suharto that his regime has the strong backing of the United States, in particularly the Brown administration.

Final leg of the long trip was Korea: where Davis had to do political gymnastics when attempting to improve souring diplomatic relations between Washington & Seoul because of controversy among the populace of Brown removing nuclear ground military personnel troops out of Korea. The main focus was working to repair working relationship with authoritarian Korean President Park Chung-hee, who no doubt, gave Davis the lecture of how foreign policy works, etc.,

Sources state the meeting produced some results: Park will invite President Brown for a State Visit at some point with an official date being determined. Davis met with military personnel troops from the UN Forces Command & US Forces Korea.

 

[49ersfootball]

April 16th, 1977
BREAKING NEWS: ISABEL PERON REELECTED TO FULL SIX-YEAR TERM IN LANDSLIDE VICTORY AS ARGENTINE PRESIDENT
Benefiting from the government's successful crushing of rebel military troops in the failed coup atrempt of March 24th, 1976 which led to an all-out bloodbath on both sides during the Civil War of 1976 that lasted three months, with government forces emerging victorious that resulted in the deaths of then-Army Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Jorge Videla & Admiral Ernesto Massera.

Argentine President Isabel Peron was easily reelected to a full 6-year term in her own right defeating opposition leader Ricardo Balbin of the UCR in a landslide victory (68% to 19%) in a field of six candidates. She will be inaugurated on June 4th, 1977 at the National Congress Building.

April 17th, 1977:
PH Muslims rejecting referendum on regional autonomy
Muslim Moro insurgents of 13 Philippine southern provinces boycotted a referendum in permitting residents of the newly populated autonomous region to decide on questions of self-administration. Almost 986 of those who voted, cast ballots against rebel control of the region.

Women allowed to vote in Liechtenstein
Choosing among candidates for justice of the peace in the capitol of Vadez, Liechtensteiner women voted for the first time in the history of their principality. For several years women suffrage had been rejected consistently by the male electorate, but in 1976, a law passed by Parliament empowered the individual assemblies of Liechtensteiner communes to pernit their women to vote on local issues.

 

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April 17th, 1977: Intelligence reports circulating of potential civil war between Argentina & Chile
According to serious credible intelligence reports, the ongoing diplomatic dispute between neighboring countries Chile & Argentina have been festering for awhile, especially since the Washington Post revealed that Chilean President General Augusto Pinochet supported the botched failed coup attempt against Argentine President Isabel Peron on March 24th, 1976.

In retaliation, Argentine government officials recalled the Argentinian Ambassador from Santiago & kicked the Chilean Embassy officials out of Buenos Aires In what foreign policy experts viewed as "persona non-grata". Relations have continued to sour even further when the Peronist government deployed 25,000 Argentinian military personnel troops to the borders on what was viewed as "military training exercises", but Pinochet strongly blasted as plans for invasion into Chile which will be met with the strongest & severest response militarily.

The US State Department has issued warnings about potential violence, urging American citizens to avoid specific dangerous potential areas in both countries.

Summit Update: White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis confirmed the US/Argentine Summit will go ahead on schedule for mid-May
Despite the potential ugly conflict between Chile & Argentina, White House Chief of Staff Gray Davis was asked during an interview with Frank Reynolds of ABC News on the explosive situation. Davis responded the Brown administration is closely monitoring the situation between both neighboring countries & urge diplomatic solutions to preventing an all-out civil war as soon as possible.

Davis confirmed that the upcoming Summit between Argentine President Isabel Peron & US President Jerry Brown will go ahead as scheduled set for May 24th in Paradise Valley, AZ.

 

[49ersfootball]

April 18th, 1977: Lopez Rega's influence disturbingly concerning to majority of Argentinians

Jose Lopez Rega, the controversial Argentinian Ambassador to Spain still weilds lots of power & influence inside the Argentinian government.

Despite continuing his role as Argentinian Ambassador to Spain since 1975, Jose Lopez Rega still weilds lots of power & influence inside the Argentinian government & also making the policy decision-making from Madrid. The overbearing, micro-managing by Lopez Rega including his usage of the Triple A, a ruthless group from the Argentine Federal Police which has participated in kidnappings, murders, torture & forced exile of thousands of political opponents even in the aftermath of the Civil War of 1976 which almost dragged-out for an entire year.

Critics referred to Lopez Rega as "That ugly freak!" Other political & foreign policy analysts went further: "It seems to me that majority of Argentinians are strongly concerned about the direction of the country and Lopez Rega surprisingly still controls the entire Argentinian Federal Police Force including influencing law enforcement agencies too, who follow orders on basically whims of the day."

April 19th, 1977: Intelligence Report: Pinochet requesting meeting with Mondale on mysterious military exercises along Argentinean/Chilean border
Disturbed by the ever-increasing suspicious military exercises along the Argentinian/Chilean borders, Chilean President General Augusto Pinochet received US Secretary of State Walter Mondale at Palacio de Cierro Castillo to discuss the brewing diplomatic crisis between Argentina & Chile.

During the bilateral meeting, Mondale expressed concern about the suspicious military exercise activities by the Argentinian Army. He told Pinochet that the Brown administration is working with British Prime Minister James Callaghan on a potential summit to preventing an ugly civil war from spiraling across South America. "The United States is watching and monitoring the situation very closely. It's important that the parties involved seriously consider diplomatic efforts in resolving this conflict."

Sources confirmed that the US Defense Department had approved $56.56 billion in providing military weaponry, arms, fighter jets, etc., to Chile over the strong objections of United States Senators Hubert Humphrey (D-MN) & Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA).

April 20th, 1977: Helms successfully kills Panama Canal Treaty, obstructing Brown administration's foreign policy objective
In the meantime at Capitol Hill, United States Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC) joined by a group of 25+ other Senators successfully killed the passage of the Panama Canal Treaty whuch would've allowed the United to States transfer the canal over to the Panamanians by 1999. This was one of the major foreign policy objectives for President Brown since coming into office.

Despite the lobbying efforts by Vice President Jimmy Carter in trying to pass the treaty, it was voted down in a vote of 36-59. Reaction from Panamanian military dictator Oscar Trujillos when asked by Panamanian TV stations about the failure of the ratification of the Canal Treaty: "There's no response to put it bluntly" but foreign policy analysts expressed concern how the Panamanian government will react on a militarily scale because speculation is swirling if they cannot have the canal, neither can the Americans.

April 21st, 1977: Martial Law in Pakistan
Newly reelected government of Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto imposed martial law on three major cities following six weeks of striking, riots & demonstrations that had taken more than 230 lives. The military crackdown was intended to cooling agitation mounted by the country's nine-party opposition coalition, which had charged massive rigging in the March 10th votes & demanded new parliamentary elections.

April 23rd, 1977: Ethiopia closes US offices
Retaliating against US President Jerry Brown's decision to reducing military aid to Ethiopia because of severe human rights violations, the Ethiopian government ordered the closing of five American offices including the US Consulate in the provincial capital of Asmara in Eritrea.

April 25th, 1977: Arizmendi visits UAB
Continuing her long goodwill tour, Mexican First Lady Fernanda Arizmendi met with Sheikh Zaid ibn Sultan an-Naharian in a State Visit. During the bilateral meeting, the deepening of diplomatic relations between Mexico & United Arab Emirates. Health, education and & information trade budgets were discussed.

April 27th, 1977
BREAKING NEWS
ABC NEWS SPECIAL REPORT: BROWN ANNOUNCES THE FULL WITHDRAWAL OF NUCLEAR MILITARY TROOPS OUT OF WEST GERMANY

In retaliation of the West German government approving $2.7 billion program of energy nuclear petroleum including building nuclear weapons program of the Brazilian military government, President Brown announced he will be withdrawing all nuclear military personnel troops including an estimated 12,573 US military personnel troops out of West Germany effective May 3rd.

COMING SOON: Political backlash against Brown's foreign policy escalates.

 

[49ersfootball]

April 28th, 1977: Backlash against President Brown's controversial withdrawal of nuclear military personnel troops out of West Germany escalates

Almost immediately, there was strong political backlash against President Brown's controversial decision to withdrawal of all nuclear military personnel troops out of West Germany ranging from bipartisan members of Congress to foreign Heads of State.

Deputy National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brezinski expressed the disapproval felt by millions of Americans & international community including majority of national defense policy experts by immediately resigning. United States Senator Scoop Jackson (D-WA St) who had supported Brown's successful 1976 presidential campaign, felt his word had been undermined because he previously had assured senior members of the West German government that Brown would stand by his commitment to the alliance including maintaining the defense treaty. West German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt blasted Brown's reckless decision "outright despicable and cowardice".

United States Senator Barry Goldwater (R-AZ) viciously attacked Brown's controversial move: "What the President did today was reckless, disgusting, pathetic and damn cowardly revealed to our allies that under this administration, the United States is weak and nowhere to be found because this incompetent of an administration is so fucking hell-bent on pursuing a stupid ass Detente with those Soviets and God knows who else. Rest assured, there will be committee hearings on this. And you mark my words, history will NOT look kind on this pathetic administration and especially the WORST President in America!"

April 29th, 1977: President Brown justifies controversial decision to withdraw nuclear military personnel troops out of West Germany; issues threats to other countries of cutting off economic & military aid.

Doubling-down, Brown used his human rights campaign speech from the UN General Assembly by stating the following: "All of the signatories of the United Nations Charter have pledged themselves to observe and to respect basic human rights," the President said during a press conference in the East Room of the White House. "Thus, no member of the United Nations can claim that mistreatment of its citizens is soley its own business. Equally, no member can avoid its responsibilities to review and to speak when torture or unwarranted deprivation occurs in any part of the world.

West Germany has their own armed forces and the capability to defend themselves in case of any potential attack."

Emphasizing his aggressive human rights campaign in helping people in other countries winning their basic rights, Brown when asked by reporters about criticism from Korean President Park Chung-hee, Brazilian President General Ernesto Geisel among other foreign Heads of State blasting Brown's criticism regarding the treatment of their citizens, the President bluntly issued slight threats towards other nations with warnings of loss of military & economic aid if the human rights violations escalate, "Our foreign assistance programs will now reflect more clearly our concern for human rights."

April 30th, 1977: White House Communications staff overwhelmed with hostile phone calls, telegrams, letters

The communications staff of the White House was completely overwhelmed by openly hostile, angry phone calls & letters denouncing his controversial action. Members of Congress of both political parties were furious & angered both by the abrupt decision to withdraw nuclear military personnel troops out of West Germany & not having been consulted in advance.

May 3rd, 1977
BREAKING NEWS: MEXICAN PRESIDENT GENERAL OSCAR ROBLES TO REESTABLISH DIPLOMATIC TIES WITH TAIWAN EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY

During a televised national address from the National Palace, Mexican President General Oscar Robles announced that Mexico will reestablish full diplomatic relations with Taiwan effective immediately. Since coming to power in a bloodless military coup d'etat on February 21st, 1973, the Military Junta has ruled Mexico & significantly gained absolute control in foreign policy, where Robles has been reducing ties with several socialist & communist countries such as Yugoslavia, PRC, Cambodia, Cuba to name a few.
Robles had also banned Palestinian citizens from living in Mexico by sending a deportation force to aggressively ban them from the country; foreign policy analysts viewed Robles' move as becoming a growing influential figure in Latin America including putting Mexico on the international stage.

 

[49ersfootball]

May 4th, 1977: Americans voice strong disapproval of President Brown's job performance
Due to the backlash against the controversial decision by President Jerry Brown to abruptly withdraw all nuclear military personnel troops out of West Germany on April 27th including other administration blunders such as the stock trading engulfing OMB Director Bert Lance, who's facing heavy scrutiny over his handling of the stocks, etc; Gallup took a poll & asked Americans to rate the job performance of President Brown & a majority expressed strong disapproval with heavy numbers:

May 4th, 1977: Gallup
*President Jerry Brown Job Approval Rating
Approve: 29%
Disapprove: 64%

On February 12th, Brown's approval rating was at 63%: the highest of his Presidency, but recent foreign policy blunders & policy decisions have damaged the President's credibility.

 

[49ersfootball]

May 7th, 1977: Due to impending potential civil war between Chile & Argentina, the body of Argentine First Lady Eva Peron secretly taken out of tomb for "safety concerns"

December 30th, 1975: The body of the late Argentine First Lady Eva Peron on display inside the Eva Peron Great Mausoleum in outskirts of San Vicente, Argentina.

In light of the ongoing diplomatic dispute between Chile & Argentina over the dispute about Picton, Lennox & Nueva Islands including the rumored potential of a civil war between the rival neighboring countries, the body of the late Argentine First Lady Eva Peron was secretly taken out of the Eva Peron Great Mausoleum in the outskirts of San Vicente, Argentina.

The official statement was "safety concerns" & brought up the ugly diplomatic situation with Chile as the main reason. No other comments were further detailed.

COMING UP IN CHAPTER VIII: Personal PoV's from Argentina 😎

@Sergeant Foley @The Immortal Watch Dog