    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 22 (Monday, June 5, 2000)]
    [Page 1261]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on the Circuit Court of Appeals Decision in the Elian
    Gonzalez Case

    June 1, 2000

        I am pleased with the decision today of the Eleventh Circuit Court
    of Appeals. As I have said before, this is a case about the importance
    of family and the bond between a father and son. I have supported the
    Justice Department's conclusion that Elian's father, Juan Miguel
    Gonzalez, is the one best suited to speak for his child, and I am
    pleased that the court has upheld the Justice Department's
    determination.