[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 81 (Thursday, June 23, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: June 23, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                 SURGICAL PROCEDURE: REMOVE DR. ELDERS

                                 ______


                             HON. BOB STUMP

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 23, 1994

  Mr. STUMP. Mr. Speaker, as one of the many Members who has signed Mr. 
Stearns' letter to President Clinton calling for the resignation of the 
Surgeon General, I am hopeful that he will give our request his most 
serious consideration.
  Dr. Elders has repeatedly crossed ethical boundaries and made 
statements many Americans find extremely offensive and indefensible. In 
fact, just yesterday while speaking at the Lesbian and Gay Health 
Conference, she lashed out at the un-Christian religious right.
  Although, I find her latest attack unsettling to say the least, I 
must admit that it is not the most damaging statement she has made. I 
find it particularly worrisome that the Surgeon General, who is in a 
position to guide this Nation's youth and give them a sense of what is 
right and what is wrong, has made controversial and flippant remarks on 
issues involving drug abuse and sexuality.
  We are all aware of the horrors of drug abuse and the terrible and 
destructive impact it has on our society. Yet, in the midst of this 
Nation's war on drugs, the Surgeon General has advocated a study of the 
possible legalization of illicit drugs. Equally as disturbing are her 
comments on sexuality. Her idea of responsibility is for ``every young 
girl when she goes out on a date--put a condom in her purse.''
  Mr. Speaker, the Surgeon General of the United States should be 
dedicated to promoting public health and welfare. I believe that Dr. 
Elders has a much different agenda. Quite frankly, I am convinced that 
if she is not removed from her position, her actions will only get 
worse. I am hopeful that the President will heed our request and 
replace Dr. Elders with a Surgeon General who is dedicated to our 
common values and interests.

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