December 1, 2011
white house aids ribbon
Q: Does the President, does anyone in the White House know about this epidemic, Larry?

Mr. Speakes: I don’t think so. I don’t think there’s been any …

Q: Nobody knows?

Mr. Speakes: There has been no personal experience here, Lester.

Q: No, I mean, I thought you were keeping …

Mr. Speakes: I checked thoroughly with Dr. Ruge this morning and he’s had no — (laughter) — no patients suffering from AIDS or whatever it is.

Q: The President doesn’t have gay plague, is that what you’re saying or what?

Mr. Speakes: No, I didn’t say that.

Q: Didn’t say that?

Mr. Speakes: I thought I heard you on the State Department over there. Why didn’t you stay there? (Laughter.)

Q: Because I love you Larry, that’s why. (Laughter.)

Mr. Speakes: Oh I see. Just don’t put it in those terms, Lester. (Laughter.)

Ronald Reagan Remembered: First Public Discussion of HIV/AIDS