FORD GERALD R Typed Letter Signed Jerry as House Minority Le

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MY LAI MASSACRE MAY BE COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA FORD, GERALD R. Typed Letter Signed, "Jerry," as House Minority Leader, to Edward C. Hornburg ("Dear Ed"), addressing his questions on various topics, including corruption in government, the authority of the President to conduct war in Vietnam, funding for interstate highways, Communist propaganda, the procedure to elect the Speaker of the House, tax reform, draft-dodging in the President's family, and the "epidemic" of demonstrations on college campuses. 2 pages, 4to, "Office of the Minority Leader" stationery, written on two separate sheets; horizontal folds. (TFC) Washington, 23 December 1969

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". . . All of us are concerned with the various reports of misconduct on the part of public officials. . . . Ex-Senator Brewster has been indicted. A large number of public officials in Newark including the Mayor are under indictment . . . .
"It is true that war has not been declared in Vietnam. Yet the President as commander-in-chief has the authority to carry on the armed conflict. . . .
"A declaration of war would not in and of itself change the conduct of the war. . . . If the President were to ask for a declaration of war Congress would provide it. . . .
"I share your concern with the Communist propaganda so much of which we have in our country today. We must suspend judgment on the alleged massacre in Vietnam until all the facts are known. It would be tragic indeed if our country were the victim of Communist propaganda in this respect. . . .
"The President's son-in-law is presently deferred from military service because he is enrolled in college. As you know, the present law and regulations provide for college deferment until the individual has obtained his bachelor's degree. . . .
"Our views on troublemakers in college are in substantial agreement. We are thankful that the epidemic of demonstrations seems to have diminished. The responsibility for handling these troublemakers rests with the college authorities and the state officials. However, I have supported legislation which would cut off any federal funds to college students who are found guilty of illegal action in connection with these protests and demonstrations."