Reading Room Document

Appointment of Members of the National Commission on Neighborhoods

The document discusses the interpretation of the phrase "members of the same political party" in the National Neighborhood Policy Act, specifically in relation to the National Commission on Neighborhoods. The conclusion reached is that the statute does not require appointees to be registered Democrats or Republicans, and the President is free to appoint individuals affiliated with lesser-known political parties or independents. The document presents questions for review regarding the determination of whether a potential appointee is a "member" of a political party, and outlines criteria such as sharing the basic beliefs of the party, desiring to belong to the party, and performing certain actions in furtherance of its goals. The document also discusses various forms of active support that may indicate membership in a political party, such as financial support, attendance at meetings, volunteer activity, speeches, or service as an officer.

July 28, 1977