Rationale in Reserve

When Carter appeared on Meet the Press, the panel questioned him only briefly about the Olympic boycott--much to his disappointment. He had carefully prepared answers spelling out the reasons for his stand. Some of the questions he had anticipated and the answers he was eager to give:

Q. Wouldn't a boycott be a tragedy for American athletes?

A. If the Soviet leaders believe the U.S. cannot impose trade embargoes because farmers and workers are unwilling to make any sacrifices, and cannot withdraw from the Olympics because our athletes and spectators are unwilling to make sacrifices, they will question our resolve to impose costs for their aggressive action.

Q. What would be the purpose of an American boycott?

A. To show the Soviet leaders and people that they cannot invade another nation with impunity. If our response is to continue sports as usual in the capital of the aggressor, the other steps we are taking to deter aggression will be undermined.

Q. If the Olympic committee and athletes refuse to boycott, what will you do?

A. I hope [they] will agree to seek transfer of the Games. I believe they will listen to me as President and to the majority of Americans, who share my view. I would prefer at this time not to exercise legislative authority over the U.S.O.C. or American athletes.

This file is automatically generated by a robot program, so viewer discretion is required.