176. Circular Telegram From the Department of State to all American Republic Posts 1
Washington, May 11, 1966, 3:13 p.m.
2206. For Ambassador.
- 1.
- (FYI) Department notes tendency some officials and press in Latin America to assume that Bosch victory in June 1 elections is foregone conclusion. Our reading of Dominican election indicators show that it is very much of horse race. We are concerned over trend to regard Bosch election as assured because if Balaguer wins, there will be many who will mistakenly suspect that elections were rigged and we were somehow involved. There is no basis for suspicion election may be rigged. Dominican Electoral Commission seems impartial and we have detected no reason for serious complaint against it. Election will be conducted under OAS observation as was case in free election of 1962. We also expect substantial number newsmen will be present. U.S. and OAS Ad Hoc Committee have encouraged all these efforts assure Dominicans have chance free election and that results will be respected. (End FYI.)
- 2.
- Factors making us believe election very much a horse race are:
- a.
- We expect an honest election under more extensive observation by OAS than was case in free election of 1962.
- b.
- Balaguer and Bosch have been campaigning without restrictions and both have conducted high level campaign.
- c.
- Balaguer touring country with car caravans, as well as using radio and TV, in contrast with Bosch who has chosen to stay at home and rely on radio and TV.
- d.
- Balaguer is drawing large responsive crowds in his travels.
- e.
- Balaguer generally conceded have strong following in countryside and Santiago area where 70% voters reside as opposed to Boschʼs lead in capital city area with 30% of electorate. Most of press reporting seems based on testing of political climate in capital city.
- f.
- Despite his Trujillo connections, Balaguer has reputation for honesty, good administration and reform.
- g.
- Balaguerʼs name is associated with peace, stability and work and he is plugging these themes at time when many Dominicans are tired of turbulence and are aware of Boschʼs role in April revolt.
- 3.
- (FYI) We think it important for growth democracy in hemisphere that governments and press keep open mind on elections and [Page 413] avoid influencing outcome by uninformed comments and speculation. It is difficult for USG play role in process democratic education in Latin America, especially during election, because it runs risk being accused intervening. Nevertheless we believe you should make effort. We recognize this tricky to accomplish. Best tactic would be not to take initiative in raising subject Dominican election but be ready when others bring up subject to point out in low-key fashion mistake in prejudging outcome because of factors listed paragraph 2.
- 4.
- Request Ambassador select members his staff who, by virtue of contacts on local scene and skill in handling delicate job this nature, should be informed content this message and authorized to carry out quiet missionary work using tactic described paragraph 3. (End FYI.)
- 5.
- Report promptly all contacts and their reaction.
Rusk
- Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, POL 14 DOM REP. Secret; Immediate; Exdis. Drafted by Sayre and Bowdler, cleared by Bunker and Stewart, and approved by Sayre. Sent to all ARA posts except Santo Domingo for action and repeated to Santo Domingo.↩