From the archives: Lyndon B. Johnson announces he won't seek reelection in 1968

CBS News2 minutes read

President Johnson stresses unity as crucial for America's success, announces he will not seek re-election, and calls for reduced Vietnam bombardment. Senator McCarthy is surprised by the withdrawal, leading to potential changes in the upcoming elections.

Insights

  • President Johnson stresses the critical importance of unity among Americans for the country's survival and success, prioritizing collective achievements over divisive partisanship.
  • The President's decision not to seek re-election, coupled with his call for reduced Vietnam bombardment and increased spending, could lead to significant political reactions and negotiations in Congress, potentially altering the upcoming election landscape.

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Recent questions

  • Why does President Johnson stress unity?

    To ensure America's survival and success.

  • What is President Johnson's stance on divisiveness?

    He urges against division within America.

  • What announcement did President Johnson make about his future?

    He will not seek re-election as President.

  • What does President Johnson propose regarding the Vietnam War?

    A reduction in air and sea bombardment.

  • How might Vice President Humphrey benefit from the political scenario?

    A chance to stand out in a potential deadlock.

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Summary

00:00

"President Johnson Urges Unity for American Success"

  • President Johnson emphasizes the importance of unity among Americans to ensure the survival and success of Liberty.
  • He stresses that the strength of the country lies in the unity of its people, not in weapons or resources.
  • Throughout his public career, he prioritized the unity of the people over divisive partisanship.
  • President Johnson highlights the dangers of division within the American house and urges against divisiveness.
  • He mentions the duties that fell upon him 52 months and 10 days ago, emphasizing the need for unity and progress.
  • The President expresses his belief that America will become a stronger nation due to the collective achievements of its people.
  • He announces that he will not seek or accept the nomination of his party for another term as President.
  • President Johnson calls for a reduction in air and sea bombardment of North Vietnam as a first step in deescalating the war.
  • He mentions sending an additional 13,500 Americans to Vietnam over the next 5 months and the need for increased South Vietnamese participation in the war.
  • The President emphasizes the necessity of additional Vietnam spending, including a tax increase to support it and curtail inflation.

20:08

"Political Landscape Shifts Before Upcoming Elections"

  • Vice President Humphrey could potentially benefit from a deadlock between McCarthy and Kennedy at the convention, giving him a chance to stand out.
  • There is still a significant amount of time before the convention, allowing for various possibilities in the political landscape.
  • President Johnson's announcement of not seeking re-election and the potential for increased Vietnam spending could lead to significant reactions and negotiations in Congress.
  • Senator McCarthy expressed surprise at the President's withdrawal, indicating a shift in the political scenario for the upcoming elections.
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