Meeting with Representative Frances Bolton and James C. Hagerty—January 19, 1955

Recording begins after conversation had already begun. Eisenhower and Bolton mention Ray Bliss (D-Ohio). DDE speaks of Bolton's seniority in Congress and discusses Mrs. Oveta Cull Hobby's plan for education. DDE says the plan addresses what the federal government should do while it "abstains from trying to take over education in any direct or indirect way."

Bolton expresses her interest in educational matters and her desire to work in Ohio in that field. She waits to see "if the schools can't take over some of the responsibilities for discipline that the families are not taking." DDE and Bolton discuss the need for
American youth to have discipline. Bolton suggests a universal training program to help youth prepare for the future. DDE talks about establishing a system that is careful not to generate resentment of the system. He states that "the obligation of the government to train its citizens is as great as the citizens to perform his obligations to the country."

Bolton talks at length about how difficult it is for her to talk directly with Mrs. Hobby about her proposed legislation. Bolton complains that she has talked only with Mrs. Hobby's "people." She is especially critical of Lucille Petry, the Public Health Nurse. DDE states that Mrs. Hobby wants much the same type of legislation that Bolton is describing. Bolton again complains that she has had to deal with Mrs. Hobby's "liaison." DDE states that the Congressional committees and the Departments should work
together to solve their differences. DDE states "I don't like it myself to write down and put my name pit the bottom of the details. I don't know enough about the details."

There is a lengthy discussion of school funding, nurses training, the White House Conference; on Education, and the Kestnbaum Committee. Bolton criticizes Petry and Hobby in the area of nurses training. She then reads a message to DDE that commends
his personal qualities and his leadership skills. Bolton departs.

Press Secretary James Hagerty enters. DDE asks about the situation with the offshore islands. Hagerty has nothing new to report and makes reference to a press conference at 10:30. The captured airmen and the Communist Chinese are discussed. DDE states that he is "responsible under the Constitution for carrying out the foreign affairs of the United States." They then talk about Latin America, specifically Panama, Cost Rica and Nicaragua. The door slams and indistinct voices can be heard. The tape ends.