President Kimball Condemns Wrongdoing by Government Officials

On the eve of the nation’s bicentennial birthday, President Spencer W. Kimball has issued a special statement condemning the wrongdoing and immorality of public servants and has called upon all elected and appointed government officials to observe “high moral principles.”

“New disclosures and charges regarding questionable activities of public servants in Washington, D.C., in addition to those in recent months and years, are shocking indeed.

“It is time for both elected and appointed officials, regardless of party, in our government, nationally and locally, to appraise themselves and their practices. There appears to be too often an attitude of indifference toward serious acts of wrongdoing.

“There is no better time than now, in this bicentennial year of our nation’s birth, for a rededication to the high moral principles which have contributed to this nation’s greatness. The workings of our government should be an example to the world—in uncompromising integrity, in wise and prudent stewardship of public funds, in personal morality, including fidelity in marriage, and in an openness on activities which will build the confidence of the electorate. The citizenry should expect no less.

“We remind public servants of a slogan of President Grover Cleveland: ‘Public office is a public trust.’

“And also of President Theodore Roosevelt’s statement: ‘It is better to be faithful than famous.’ This nation can be no stronger than its families.

“America cannot remain strong by ignoring the commandments of the Lord given to Moses on Sinai.

“It is time our government officials and all of us reaffirm our motto, ‘In God we trust,’ and conduct our lives accordingly.”