How To Go A Long Way On A Little Knowledge (Press, 18 February 1981)

William P. Clark's recent appointment as Deputy Secretary of State under President Ronald Reagan is underscored by a deep loyalty stemming from their past together, particularly during a scandal in 1967 that threatened Reagan's emerging political career. Clark had been instrumental in managing a crisis when allegations of homosexual activity amongst members of Reagan's executive staff surfaced, forcing their resignations. This incident was a significant test for Reagan, who was less than a year into his governorship in California, amidst whispers that could have derailed his ambition for higher office. Despite the ensuing media frenzy that hinted at a "homosexual ring" in his office, Reagan maintained his composure, refusing to disclose names to protect innocent families connected to the staff members. Ultimately, Reagan's standing remained intact, a fact largely attributed to Clark's adept handling of the situation, restoring order to a chaos-stricken office. Clark's contributions extended beyond crisis management; he developed the efficient "mini-memo" system that helped Reagan focus on critical issues quickly and return home to his wife by 5.30 PM. Clark's career trajectory took a notable turn following his pivotal role in stabilising Reagan's governance. He was appointed as a Superior Court judge, later ascending to a justice on the California Supreme Court. However, his ascent was marred by controversy due to his lack of formal legal education, having dropped out of both Stanford University and Loyola Law School. This background led to significant criticism, as many in the legal community questioned his qualifications. Despite this, he was championed by conservatives for his stances on legal issues and his willingness to confront the court's liberal majority. Over his eight years on the Supreme Court, Clark was often at odds with his colleagues, which resulted in noted discord, including a reprimand from Chief Justice Rose Elizabeth Bird after one particularly heated exchange. Legal professionals have characterised his time on the court as lacking distinction, citing a disparity in his judicial opinions that suggested he could not have authored certain decisions independently. Critics referred to his contributions as "particularly undistinguished," reflecting skepticism about his legal prowess despite his affiliation with Reagan. Now, as Clark transitions into the realm of foreign policy, questions arise about his readiness for the role traditionally seen as central to U.S. diplomatic strategy. While his past relationship with Reagan signifies a loyalty that has been favoured over qualifications, the outlook on his effectiveness in managing international relations remains uncertain. As his confirmation progresses, there is keen interest in how both domestic and international stakeholders will respond to this appointment, alongside the consideration of Clark’s historical reliance on personal allegiance in lieu of demonstrable experience.

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