Reading Room Document

Membership of White House Staff Member on Democratic National Committee

The document is a legal opinion on whether a White House staff member can be a member of the Democratic National Committee. The conclusion reached is that while such membership would not violate any statutory restriction, there is a question under applicable Standards of Conduct. The questions presented for review include whether such membership would affect the result of an election, and whether it would create the appearance of using public office for private gain, giving preferential treatment, or losing independence or impartiality. The document also discusses the potential problems of appearances that could arise from the staff member's close official connection to partisan political activities.

January 27, 1977