Nation: Rationale in Reserve

When Carter appeared on Meet the Press, the panel questioned him only briefly about the Olympic boycott—much to his disappointment. He had carefully prepared answers spelling out the reasons for his stand. Some of the questions he had anticipated and the answers he was eager to give:

Q. Wouldn't a boycott be a tragedy for American athletes?

A. If the Soviet leaders believe the U.S. cannot impose trade embargoes because farmers and workers are unwilling to make any sacrifices, and cannot withdraw from the Olympics because our athletes and spectators are unwilling to make sacrifices, they will question our resolve to impose...

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