Reading Room Document

Christmas Gift for the President

The document discusses the legality of Cabinet members making contributions for a Christmas gift to the President. The conclusion reached is that solicitation and donation for such a gift is in violation of 5 U.S.C. 7351, which prohibits employees from soliciting or making gifts to an official superior. The document also presents alternative suggestions for handling the matter, such as undoing the steps taken so far or making the gift to the White House for use by any President. The questions presented for review include the interpretation of the statute, the implications of the gift in the public eye, and the appropriate handling of the matter to avoid any violation of the law or public criticism.

September 26, 1969