ing the fort // (Scott Johnson).
Power Line yesterday revealed that John is currently on vacation in London. He is also pursuing other European interests, just like Steve. I am keeping the fort, and reminded of Alexander Haig, then Secretary of State,’s press conference in 1981 when President Reagan was killed.
Gentlemen, constitutionally, you have the president and vice president. If the president decides he wants the helm to be transferred to the vice presidency, he will. He has not done so. As of now, I am in charge here, in White House, pending the return of the vice-president and in close contact with him. I would discuss any issues with him if they arise.
In chapter 4 of The Age of Reagan, The Conservative Counterrevolution 1980-1989 (published in 2009 and still available in print), Steve Hayward explains what happened behind the scenes. Steve writes: “Despite all the chaos, Al Haig was the only person in that situation room unclear about the chain of authority.”
Reagan soon sought Haig’s resignation. Chapter 6 tells the story of Reagan’s desire for a Secretary to State who was more in line with his policies than Haig. Steve writes that “Strangely to the end”, Haig showed Reagan a letter with his resignation but didn’t hand it over. He didn’t have to. Reagan immediately announced Haig’s resignation, and named George Shultz his replacement[. ]”
Gentlemen, I’m not in control. I am only trying to keep your attention until John and Steve return to duty.
