Robert Schwarz Strauss - Service Under President Reagan

Service Under President Reagan

Carter's successor Ronald Reagan was to face difficulties of his own. His efforts to resolve another hostage situation led to the Iran-Contra affair. Many of the president's supporters believed that the aggressive management style of his Chief of Staff Donald Regan was making matters worse, but the President remained loyal to Regan and would not consider replacing him. The President's adviser Michael Deaver and First Lady Nancy Reagan made a discreet approach to an experienced outsider they believed might be able to persuade the President: Robert Strauss. Others had told the President what he wanted to hear, that the controversy would blow over and that Donald Regan was more useful than not. Robert Strauss, who had closely observed the workings of two other presidential administrations, told the President the painful truth, that Donald Regan had become a liability and that the White House needed a Chief of Staff who could mend fences, especially with Congress. Among others, Strauss recommended former Senator Howard Baker, a Republican respected on both sides of the aisle for his competence and integrity. Reagan was visibly annoyed with Strauss's suggestions, but a few days later, Donald Regan submitted his resignation, and the President appointed Howard Baker to replace him. Baker skillfully managed the President's recovery from the controversy, and President Reagan left office with his popularity restored.-

Mr. Strauss was then appointed as the co-chairman, along with ex-secretary of Transportation Drew Lewis, of the National Economic Commission. This bi-partisan commission was given the task to solve the federal budget deficit that had grown to over 4 Trillion dollars. The commission lasted from 1988 to 1989, and ended in the first term of President George H. W. Bush.