A Stockman Charge

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Q. Did you suggest that the tax cut be delayed, or again ask the President to reconsider additional military budget cuts?

A. No. In recommendations to the President, we listed a good many options.

I put defense options and revenue options on paper that I wouldn't even recommend myself. For example, an oil import fee: I voted against that in Congress. [Treasury Secretary Donald] Regan and I are obligated to show the President all the choices. As far as military cuts are concerned, I think that's a closed case.

Q. Will the President veto a further defense budget cut?

A. No. You don't have the practical option to veto a defense appropriation. If you do, it'll go back to a continuing resolution [at 1981 spending levels], which is even worse. I think you can justify every dollar going to defense.

Q. Are you looking forward to the battle with Congress?

A. Sure. We've got a lot of leverage. On some appropriations, we no longer need more than half of both Houses; we need only one-third of one House to stop the budget busting. As long as current financial conditions continue—and I have no doubt they will for a time—we'll be very effective.