Informal Exchange With Reporters on Allegations of Illegal Drug Use by Members
of the White House Staff
Q.
Mr. President, were you surprised by allegations of drug use in the White
House?
The President. No, we've known this
for a while, and the investigation goes on. And I think it's just evidence of
what we've been saying, and particularly what
Q. What should happen to those who have been --
if they are proven to have used drugs?
The President. Well, if it's just a
case of using them, I would like to see us do our best to get them in a drug
treatment organization -- and that they will agree to accepting
a cure.
Q. So, the policy is going to be, give them a
second chance?
The President. I have always said that
I think that -- this is another indication of why compulsory drug testing is
not bad. It is, I think, one of the principal answers. But let the people know that we'll do our best to salvage anyone who has
been addicted.
Q. Isn't it true, Mr. President, that it wasn't
drug testing that caught these people; it was actually a tip?
The President. I'm not commenting on
the investigation, but it certainly wasn't drug testing, no, because we haven't
been doing that.
Q. Well, wouldn't that mean that you should
encourage whistle-blowers instead of drug testing?
The President. No, I think drug
testing is the best way.
Q. Are you -- --
The President. What's that?
Q. Are you upset that it was here in the White
House?
The President. Well, yes, of course,
I'm upset when it's found anywhere. Incidentally, I've taken my test.
[Laughter]
Q. Was Mrs. Reagan upset? Mrs. Reagan upset
about this? Have you discussed it?
The President. Of course you're upset
about something of this kind. Any evidence of it -- --
Q. But you and your wife were never in any
personal danger due to the nature of their duties?
The President. No, I wouldn't think
so.
Note: The exchange began
at