Transcript of 166-12c-1_section_9-part_1_of_6.pdf

================================================== Page 1 ================================================== "8.5487 DErARTHEXT OF ' JuSTICE OFFIcE 0F REcoRds OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MATERIAL MIST NOt BE REMOVED FROM NOR ADDED TO THIS FILE VITHOUT APPROVAL OF THE OFFICE OF RECORDS OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT By order of the Attorney General THIS FILE HAS BEEN CHARGED AS INDICATED BELOW Requested by Division Date Issued Returned 2 1zz ELi 's Jiosh Ios LAcLB 26-4 3 S #iS 'iull leL 6 @b 1Z_kz%_ LcUL LLZS Zez 2z37 Ii0y2 Lie 6YZS 3 946 IAL_LEAZ-E Cabe 5541 Ibluda t 2IIL ELS 5HnAUc 3EZl Liil pm E 1 1LZAL 2411 1-42- Eum ReucL [4L3I~ Lal 5112 Ross 312 R TL Kl-EL 2 74 ~0 1 ~ 2 512 Couako ================================================== Page 2 ================================================== @nited States DBepattment of Justice ASSISTANT ATTORNEY GENERAL CRIMINAL DIVISION WASHINGTON, D.C_ 20530 FEB 1 1 1980 Iob -Iae-/ & Mrs J_ Keller Everett, Was_ hington 98206 Dear Mrs . Keller: Your letter to Vice President Mondale concerning the re-opening of the Robert Kennedy Assassination investigation has been referred to me. As you may know the assassination of Senator Robert F Kennedy was a state , rather than a Federal crime , and its investigation and the prosecution 0f Sirhan Sirhan was the responsibility of California authorities _ Subsequent to Senator Kennedy s assassination 1 Public Law 91-644 was passed making it a Federal crime to kill, kidnap , or assault a member 0f Congress . That law now appears at 18 U.S.C. 351 Therefore 1 although we appreciate the interest of concerned citizens such as yourself no member 0f the Federal Executive Branch may be 0f assistance in this matter unless there is credible evidence that Federal laws in effect at the time of the assassination were violated. Sincerely, Philip Ba Heymann Assistant Attorney General Criminal Division BY : T Wlte Philip T . White Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Palp Ap 6)Nn ================================================== Page 3 ================================================== T 9-4-79 SEP 5 1979 DSD : CBM: ach:sd8 DJ 166-I2c-1 Mr _ Timothy J_ Stanton 17806 Detroit Avenue Lakewood , Ohlo 44107 Dear Mc , Stanton: This 13 In response to your recent letter concerning the parole Of SLrhan Sirhan. It 1s always Of Interest for thig Department to receIve the viewa of pr #vate citizens on matters of current public Interet. Sincerely , Drew S. Days , III AssLgtant Attorney General CivIl Righte Dvision By: C. BrJan McDonald Deputy Chfef Criminal Section Records Chrono McDonald € G.y2h ================================================== Page 4 ================================================== STRNTON'S TOUCH FLOW HOPPE U 17806 Detroit Avenue LAKEWOOD, OHIO 44107 DATE Z-j40 To SUBJECT 6 6-l36-1 96n8ff "Zixmn Siri#N-Gub Spm L-Z DFP Fyxa,utok 712 8 4S} R D 2 k #e i4 ickenuvy-7 Gebbr tkl SMh] Gbs Z (ss8t Rrt OLL_ks Unuhctl haiilh DAutu ttbL 61 pojkkc '(Al, hd- 1 1f4a Hsas Lsn thio (N [ss h Lae: Ukm '(dneo Inud Vs 6 k 7 Hese DShs Ml lus: Ftc Teeerinue PJ p b) ca VA Dxim6 YaE t Hyuntryn; Hebs trt 'dssd kotTth! Ittin: 'ez I Dmzm QiC tALU Je otitvi SIGNED J-Shalan PLEASE REPLY REPLY NECESSARY tfba D}use:- Hje fuial, AuG inh Czozu 3e Zod#4 lt: _ Fug V abb = # A#ps Maany ================================================== Page 5 ================================================== Stanton'* Touck Glower 17806 DETROIT AVE. E"?RESS LAKEWOOD, OHIO 44107 KW: 4 ASK KOUP PfSi: A OR2- Av; Gitu &s " J6stz Huet hJiolimisn 34, 205 /0 Shoppe HOME E ================================================== Page 6 ================================================== LAW OFFICES OF Rece!Ved 'incent T. BuglbsRF %: se~'er: bilet el Hay 3 | 3 49 FH '79 Steinberg & Bugliosi Adhinistmatiye Office /4/-7 ROBERT K. STEINBERG INC_ 9171 WilSHIRE BOULEVARD, SuIte 332 ROBERT K. STEINBERG BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA 90210 VINCENT T. BuGLiOsI RICHARD L. ROSSEN 272-0531 274-8078 F_ LEE BAILEY ONE CENTER PLAZA BOSTON; MASSACKUSETTS 02100 MEmBER; MASS_ BAR EDWARD J. BELLEN BANDGASSE 6 FRANKFURT, MAIN GERMANY tKfAC DEPARTMENi @F FUISTICE DREW SS DAYS III MAY 18, 1979 Assistant tstoivagioeneral 4p MAY 31 1979 Civil Rights United States Department Of Justice Washington, D. CS 20530 Mv Dar Mr - Dys : correspondence between ourselves and the United States Enclosed is Angeles over the past six mnths . Attorney s office in Los attention to the letter just received Erom Chief We call special wherein he notes that our findings in the Rokert Assistant Paul GS Flynn, have been forwarded to the Department of Justice, Kennedy assassination case reviewed and analyzed by the U.S Attorney S apparently after having ben staff out here that this material would not have been forwarded We only assume worthy Of further consideration Might we to higher authority were it not does not reject the jurisdiction of this also note that the U.s. ittognetatutes; as pr the ci from your office mtter under ay civil rights of April 6, 1979_ David Bs Adler in his letter to by Of posititn on this matter at your We should like clarification earliest convenience_ y yoy; JGC/WWT:n CC : Attorney Ceneral Griffin Bell HRISTTE Lester S Eyman, Esq - WILIAM W. TURNER Ms Andrea Ordin/paul G. Flyn ENCLOSURES ONS can ting us your ================================================== Page 7 ================================================== LAW OFFICES OF 'incent T. Bugliosi Steinberg & Bugliosi RobERt *. STEINBERG, INC. 917i WilshiRE BOULEVARD, SUitz 332 RobERT X. STEINBERG T. bugliosi BEVERLX HILLS CALFORMIA 90210 VINCINT RICHARD L: ROssEN 272-8531 274-8078 F LEE BAILSY ONe CENTER PLAZA bostoN; MASSACHUSETTS 02108 MEMBER MAss BAR EDWARD J.BELLEN 6 SANDG4ss2 FRANKPURT _ MAIN GERMANY MS ADREA ORDIN OCTOBER 18, 1978 United States Attorney 312 M, Spring Street Los Angeles Ca]ifornia 90012 Dear Ms Ordin: Severa] mon ths ago we had hand-delivered to you an advance (gal Ieys) copy of our just-released book on the Robert F _ Kennedy assassination case. In a covering Ietter Ie made note that there might be danger in store for a many prospective witnesses identified in this case via our book _ Such may now have occurred. Enclosed is a Tetter to the Pomona Police Department relating to some recert events concerning the members of the Johnny Gray fami Ty , some 0 F who have nowl provided us With additiona] information over and above that previousIy known and described in our book; it is our firm opinion that the Tives 0f one or more of these witnesses could be in immediate danger. We ask that you take immediate steps to protect the Tives of a11 members 0f the Gray family in cooperation with the Pomona police authorities. As previousIy stated we stand ready to assist your office in any way useful; however, we are sTightly disturbed that we have to receive any kind of response from you about the contents and contentions of our book_ If you do not take our appea] seriousIy, please notify us as such and shal] seek other intervention_ However, it is our best opinion that your ke office has primary responsibility at this juncture, JGC/WHT: jah Very sincerely , cc: Vincent T Bugl iosi JONn G, CHRISTIAN/ Attorney General Griffin Bell WILLIAM W. TURNER good yet ================================================== Page 8 ================================================== ADDRESS REPLY TO (NITED STATES ATTORNEY AKD REFER To Hitei Statrs @yurttert f Justice INITIALLS AND NUMBER PGF:ff UNITED STATES ATTORNEY CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA US. COURT HOUSE 312 NO. SPRING STREET LQS ANGELES; CALIFORNIA %912 November 22, 1978 Mr. Jonn G . Christfan Mr _ William W Turner Law Offices 0 f Wincent T . Bug] i0sj 9171 Wilshire Boulevard Sutte 332 Beverly hiiis, California 90210 Dear Messrs Christian and Turner: We are in receipt 0 f a proof of your book entitled MI "The Assassination 0 f Robert F Kennedy . After we have revfewed your a1egatIons , we sha 7 1 be In contact with you . sincerety, 2 PPau1 G Flymn chief Assistant United States Attorney Kt+ X7 1 ~01m ================================================== Page 9 ================================================== LW OFFICES OF 'incent T. Bugliosi Steinberg & Bugliosi ROBERT K. STEINBERG_ INC. 917i WilShiRE BOULEVARD, suite 332 RObERT K: STEINBERG BuGLiOSI BEVERLY HILLS; CALIFORNIA 9210 VINCENT T . RICHARD L. ROSSEN 272-8591 274.8870 F. LEE BAILEY ONE CENTER PLAZA bostON: MASSACHUSETTS 0z2100 MEMBER; MAss. DAR EDWARD J. BELLEN 6 SANDGASSE FRANKFURT. MAIN GERMANY MR_ PAUL G. FLYNN DECEMBER 6 , 1978 Chief Assistant United States.Attorney 312 North Spring Street Los Angeles= ) CA. 90012 Dear Mr _ Flynn: In your letter of Hovember 22nd you use the term 11 your a] legations" 11 as related to our book on the Robert F . Kennedy assassination; frankly. we are wary 0f this being used to classify some aspects of our investigation, most especially the evidence we ve assemb Ied in support 0f there having been more than one firing at the assassination scene_ We suggest that official photographs from the FBI the County Coroner signed statements from principa]s therein and others present at the crime scene attesting to a multiple weapon attack on Senator Kennedy , hardly Ii constitutes "allegations from our quarters; and when this evidence is jux- taposed with the hand] ing of the [I ballistics 1I aspects of the case by Los eles Taw enforcement officials (circa 1968-1978) it becomes a]1 the more con- Vincing that there exists 1i reasonable cause' to suspect that some type of a "conspiracy and cover-up" effected RFK S death_ The above information would best be placed before a federal grand jury for ideration and deliberation; if this js What you have in mind, we are prepa= to assist in any way useful and necessary; if not then we sha] 1 be compe Ied to seek appropriate remedies from other sources now Iable to uS _ AII that is required here is an open_mind and awareness that we are a11 dea] ing with matters that have had and will continue to have a profound effect on the future of our nation _ JGC/WWT : jah Sincerely, CC : Vincent T_ Bug] iosj Dr_ Robert J . Jo]ing Jonn G. CHRISTIAN/ Robert Vaughn WILLIAM W. TURMER gunman and a]1 Ang- cons- red avai ================================================== Page 10 ================================================== CHR FAJI/ TURNER Sutte #332 9171 Wilshire BIvd . Beverly HiHs , CA 90210 MS ANDREA ORDIM FEBRUARY 2 , 1979 Unie States Attorney District 0 f fornia 312 North Spring Street Los Angeles Ca ] ifornia Ms Ordin: Enclosed is recently developed information on the Robert Kennedy assassination that should be 0 f particular interest to your 0f fice as you continue your review 'of Our findings (as per Pau] 6 . Flynn S Ietter to us 0f Hovember 22 4978) _ We submit this additiona] da ta because Ive re sure it carries with it implications beyond our origina] discoveries The firmly stated position 0f the 1978-79 Los Ange]es County Grand Jury (Foreman) would seem to automatically place the entire burden on your 0ffice for the proper and prompt hand]ing this ma tter; and rightfu)y S0 , perhaps , as the issues at hand have na t iona ] fications It: is our belief that because 0f the longtime ongoing "pol itical" relationships and interactions by many 0f those we identify as embrjied in 'consoiracy and cover-up,' I1 this ma tter presents formidable prob lems to any agency 0f government ; however your office is uniquely required and ob] igated to set as ide any such cons iderations which we trust can be done without further delay ing an appropriate resolution _ We 're not trying to unfairly posi tion nor pressure you in this issue ; however with the Pres identia] election 0 f 1980 fast approaching the need to ascertain whether or not some kind 0 f extant conspiracy Iurks in the shadows would seem an absolute in- perative_ We stand ready to assist in meaningful way possible. JGC/NWT : jah Sincerely, cc : Vincent T. Bug] ios i Dr Robert J . Jo]ing Lester S. Hyman , Esq. JOPIN G . CHRISTIAN/ Wlashington, D.C WILLIAM W . TURHIER Attorney Gerera1 Griffin Bel1 ENCLOSURES T7AtGTTtr TTMt7 t /RFT 7t8 M ted Centra] Ca] i " 9001 2 Dear 0 f rami any Very ================================================== Page 11 ================================================== LAW OFFIcE6 Of Vincent T , Bugliosi "Sleinberq & Buyliosi Robert K, BTEinberC, inC, Robeat K.BTeindeRG 017i Wilbhire DOULEVARD. Buite 931 VINCENT T . buoliobi BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA 90214 richaRD L' ROdOEN 272-0bj| 274.0070 F LEE BaILCY ONE cENTER PLAZA BOBTON, MABBACHUBETTR Qai00 MIMBER; Ma0S , JAR EdwaRD J. DELLEN BANDOABBE TRANKFURT, MAIN OERMANY Ma PAUL G. FLYNN MAY 7 , 1979 Chief Assistant United States Attorney 312 Nrth Spring Street Los Angeles, CA. 90012 Dar Mr . Flynn: Last Nvember 22na You notified uS that your office was looking into the so-callea "allegations" containea in Our recent bk on the Robert F_ Kennedy assassination case; these specifically related to evidence showing that a conspiracy and a wver-up were involved in th REK assassination You also stated that YOu wuld be "in cntact" with us after reviewing our findings; surely five mnths ha8 been enough for you to determine the viability Of this evidential inforation_ If you reject our findings, we shuld like to know the srecifics on which you have based that deterination; however _ if you agree with uS and a many others SO exposed to this evidence then we should like to know the status and disposition of this matter as it now stands within your office. Ik blieve we are entitled to this information as professional men ana as concerned citizens of this nation, and for its Euture. JCC/WWT:bm Sincerely, CC: Vincent T. Bugliosi, Dr _ Robert J. Joling, J.D. Robert Vaughn , Ph. Ds JONN G_ CHRTSTTAN/ Ir _ Cyril A. Wecht, M.D. J.D: WILLIAM W: TURNFR Lester S. Hyman, EST- go Esq: ================================================== Page 12 ================================================== ADDRESS REPLY To UNITED STATES ATTORNEY #tited Stutes @lepartent nf Jtstice AND REFER TO INITIALS AND NUMBER UNITED STATES ATTORNEY PGF : ff CENTRAL IISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA U.S: CoURT HOUsE 312 No. SPRING STREET Los ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90012 14 , 1979 Messrs _ Jonn G . Christian and William W Turner 917 1 Wiishire Bivd Suite 332 Beverly KiHs , Ca 90210 Gent]emen: Please be advised that the materia 1 s which you submitted concerning your investigation 0 f the assassination 0 f Robert F Kennedy were forwarded to the Department 0 f Justice on Apri] 10 , 1979 for review _ As soon a $ word js received from the Department a $ to their recommendat ion , we sha ]1 contact you . Sincerel 22 'Pau1 G Flyr Chief Ass istant United States Attorney "70 May QevoltiOv 3 "976 ================================================== Page 13 ================================================== CHRISTIAN/TURNER 6 LAW offices { STEINBERG & BUGLIOSI = 0 9171 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD SUITE 332 3 2 0 BEVERiY HILLS, CALIFORNIA 90210 USA 15c '8aX Thts USA 7c UsA 5& 'HOMLOfIAFERWE- _ 73 WNLertff DREW S_ DAYS III Assistant Attorney General Civil Rights Division United States Departent of Justice Washington, D. C. 20530 1 'HOMEQf. FaNATLE & 1* CONFiDERTiAL ================================================== Page 14 ================================================== LAw OFFICES OF 'incent T . Bugliosi 27 4 31 FH '79 Steinberg & Bugliosi Nchts ROBERT K. STEINBERG, INC 9 Z'VfSHIRE BOULEVARD, SUITE 332 ROBERT K. STEINBERG BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA 90210 VINCENT T. Bugliosi RICHARD L' ROSSEN 272-08531 274-8878 3 0 I914 F LEE BAILEY ONE CENTER PLAZA boston; MAESACHUSETTS 02108 MEMBER, MAss. BAR EDWARD J: BELLEN 6 SANDGASSE FRANKFURT , MAIN GERMANY S DAYS III APRIL 17, 1979 Assistant Attorney Genera] Civil Rights Division Un i States Department of Justice Washington, D. C: Dear Mr. Days : Your Ietter of April 6 , 1979 (under the s ignature 0f David B Adler) has reached US Its contents are both confusing and te disconcert- ing. For you to advise uS to turn to "appropriate Joca] police officials" in this instance would be Tike a Jew facing the ovens at Auschwitz ca]ling on Adolph Eichmann_ to save him. Apparently you think that our book S facts concerning crimina] invo] vement in the Robert Kennedy case by Ioca] police officials are to be ignored; not by US , re not_ For your specific information: we are aware of at least one instance ready where one crucial witness whose name and involvement in this case a] Ted out in great detai] in our book has been shot at; and his family hze been laroussed and intimidated as we]1 because severa] 0f them know 0f has torial elements in the RFK case that we came into possession 0f after book ished; and these same II Ioca] police officials" refused to our de protection_ If you fail to grasp the significance of the above then you Tikely our book either; in any case, for you to fai] to act as these have not readily warrant is to assume responsibility for the murders tions should that now occur_ innocent JGC/WWT = bm SinaersXy yourt General Griffin BelI JOrN CHRISTIAN / CC: Attteney_ Hyman , Esq- WILLIAM W: TURNER 2 Lester X ENCLOSURES Apr APR DREW ted 20530 qui just they spe ` conspira- pub - was provi= read condi persons Nay FILE 1979_ DBA ================================================== Page 15 ================================================== CHRI AN/ TURNER Suite 332 9171 Wilshire Blvd . Beverly Hihs , CA 902 10 MS ANDREA ' ORDIN FEBRUARY 2 , 1979 United States Attorney District 0f fornia North Spring Street Los Angeles , Ca ] jfornia Ms Ordin: Enclosed is recently developed information on the Robert Kennedy assassination should be 0f particular interest to your office as you continue your review 'of findings (as per Pau) G. Flynn 5 Ietter to uS 0 f No vember 22 1978) t this additiona] da ta because we re sure it carries with it implications ile our origina] discoveries The firmly stated position 0f the 1978-79 Los Ange]es County Grand Jury (Foreman) would seem to automatically place the entire burden on your 0ffice for the proper and Prompt hand]in? 0 f this ma tter; and rightfuly 50 , perhaps as the issues at hand have nationa ] fications _ is our bel ief that because 0f the longtime _ ongoing 01 'politica] " M relationships and interactions by many 0f those we identify as embrai led in "conspiracy and cover-up , tter presents formidable prob ]ems to any agency 0fgovernment; however your @ats uniqueIy required_ and obl iga ted to set as ide any such considerations which office can be done without further delaying an appropriate resolution we trust We 're not trying to unfairly tion nor pressure you in this issue; however Presidentiai election 0f 1980 fast approaching the need to ascertain whether with the some kind of extant conspiracy urks in the shadows Iou Id seem an absolute in- Or not perative _ We stand ready to assist in any meaningfu] way possible. JGC/WWT : jah Very Sincerely , cc: Vincent T _ Bug] ios i Dr _ Robert J. Jol ing ter S. Hyman , Esq_ JOFIN 6. CHRISTIAN/ Les ington, D. C . WILLIAM HY . TURFIER raeyiGetera1 Griffin Bel/ Attorney ENCLOSURES Ttty"tt 47 ' 7oVnF 17 7Tt7rrt M srry Centra1 CaI j" 312 90012 Dear that our submi beyond rami It: this posi ================================================== Page 16 ================================================== ADDReSS REPLY To (NITED STATES ATTORNEY AND REFER TO Jited Ztates @epartent pf Justice INiTIAI_S AND NUMBER PGF :ff UNITED STATES ATTORNEY CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA U.S. COURT HOUSE J12 NO. SPRING STREET LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 9012 November 22 , 1978 Mr. Jonn G . Christian Mr . William H Turner Law Offices 0f Vincent T . Bug] ios1 9171 Wilshire Boulevard Sufte 332 Beverly #tfis, Cajffornia 90210 Dear Messrs Christtan and Turner: We are in receipt 0f a proof @f your book entitled "The Assass ination 0f Robert F . Kennedy . After we have revfewed your /@11egatfons , we shal1 be In contact with you . Stmcere y , E1 Pau1 G Fly@n chfef Assistant United States Attorney ch 3e_ 5 Ht{ 6 '9036 ================================================== Page 17 ================================================== UR?? .:tt OLIVER ZESLC icil Su;? Kamaz Apn Eialiml-1 7975 ES DREW S DAYS III Assistant Attorney General Civil Rights Division United States Department 0f Justice Washington 3 D.C. 20530 ================================================== Page 18 ================================================== Suite #332 9171 Hilshire BIvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 ================================================== Page 19 ================================================== T . 4/5/79 DSD : DBA : Lad DJ 166-12C-1 6 Mc . John G. Chretian 9171 WIlshfre Blvd. Sufte 332 Beverly HIllo, CalItornla 90210 Dear Mr , ChrIstlan: your letter dated October 1978 to the Attorney General , conoorning threats to persons who allegealy have Inforuation concerning the death Of Robert Kennedy hag been referred to the CIvIl RIghte DLvleton for review. Thle danqer hab allegedly erIsen In rebponbe to Your publIcation Of 8 book, Zbe Aegaaddnetton @f Robect E. Kennedyz-ABc.roblng LoOk ZEEEE ConERTFGY7d cover-upl TEF978, Any InformatIon You pobseba rogaraIng threats to the safety of varJoue Pertong Bhoula be reported to the appropr fate local pollce agenclee who are authorieea to InvestIgate euch dangere. Tno Clvfl RIghee Dvlelon hab no Jurleafctfon to Investigate Your allegatIong . 8Lncerely , 4(6(2] Drec 8 . Days III AseIoeant Attorney: Conaral Clvsl RIghte DIvleJon Davla B, Adler Atterney CrlaInal Bectton Records Chrono Adler APR 1979 27, K91AA By $ ================================================== Page 20 ================================================== Date ROUting AND TRANSMITTAL SLIP To; otiico symbol; room number, Initials Dato Eyyaing ficencymos) 'ey IAction Fllo Note and Retum VPproval For Clearanco Per Convereation As Requested For Correction Preparo_Reply Etrculate For Your Information See Mo ommont lnvestigato Slenature Coordinatton Justlly REMARKS UJaalomexFz JaLlapkv CELob WU8 hunxhkanxex Yk Epatuu Clzd 3 /3/7 Do Not us0 ]this for 83 8 ReCorD 0f approvals, concurrencos, disposals; clearances, and simllar actlons From: (Name; or8: symbol Agency / Post) Room No,-=Bldg: Phone No: 5041-102 OPTIONAL Form 41 (Rov. 7-76) Pregeribed GSA U.S. GPO:1978-0-261-647 3354 FpmR (42 CFrjqo1-11206 Vrtyvpr Aur ================================================== Page 21 ================================================== Dato ROUTInG_AND_ TRANSMITTAL SUP TO; otice symbol room number, Initials Dato Eidie; oicencPos;s Lyt Zuul Iactton Fllo Note and Retum Vapproval For Clearanco Per Convereation VAs Roquested For Correction Preparo Reply Clrculato For Your Infonation Soe Mo ommont Investigate Signature lcoordination Justily REMARKS Xn Eni Eia Xz 3l 1 2r ~L@_L #; tazz DO Not uso] this torm a5 0 RECORD 0tapprovals, concurrences, dlsposals, clearances, and similar actions FrOM: (Naro; or8. symbol, Agency / Post) ZE No 2 Les 5041 A02 OPIAONAL Form 41 (Rev. 7-76) S_ P.0. 1977-241-53q/30 Praocribed 'cPr)" GBA Kpmr (41 101-1J.206 X 2r d: Roqm Phoro ================================================== Page 22 ================================================== Cs LAW OFFICES OF : 'incent T. Bugliosi Steinberg & Bugliosi ROBERT K. STEINBERG, INC- 9171 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD, SUITE 332 ROBERT K. STEINBERG VINCENT T.BuGLiosI BEVERLY HLLLS, CALIFORNIA 90210 RICHARD L: ROSSEN 272-8531 274-0870 F LEE BAILEY ONE CENTER PLAZA BOSTON , MASSACHUSETTs 02108 1 3 1978 MEMDER; Mabs BAR EDWARD J. BELLEN SANDGASSE FRANKFURT _ MAIN GERMANY ATTORNEY GENFRAL GRIFFIN BELL OCTOBER 27 1978 U_ S_ Justicq Department Washington 2 ps IC_ Dear Mr Attorney General: By now members of your office should have reported to yoU on the contents of our recently-rcleased book, THE ASSASSINATION OF ROBERT F_ KENNEDY A Searching_Look at the Conspiracy and Cover-up 1968-1978 _ Tf not , Wc should be rcady to supply you with a copy on request. As per the enclosed letters_ we have long sought the involvement of federal law enforcement in this case; not for the sake of a overdue justice but because there are lives in jeopardy in this case at this juncture, our own included_ Certainly your recent exposure to certain elements within the highest levels of law enforcemcnt in California should out the eality of our contentions here; we re convinced that our book reflects thc extremes of this situation aS it has existed now for more than-ten 2/2w We are equally convinced that 2 failure to comne ~ps with the facts behind the conspiracy and cover-up in thc RFK Gz could well place the lives of the President_ Vice President and other {proinent government officials in serious jeopardy the element we identisy as involved iq7d1e RFK assassination is lethal indecc_ and is te voca] in its irrational challenge of the current Aclministration S foreig and doestic policies. We urge you to assume respons 'ibility for 13' Situation at JCC/WWT: jah sincerely , CC : Vincent T. Bugliosi Dr Robert J. Jol JOWN CHRISTIAN/ WT IAM W. TURNER FNCLOSURIS Fanvsr NOV long- only point qui ing ================================================== Page 23 ================================================== Uw OFFICES OF 'incent ] . Steinberg & Bugliosi ROBERT K:steinbeRC. inC_ 9177 WilShiRE BOULEVARD Suite 332 ROBERT * STEInBERC VINCENT T . Bugiosi BEVERLY HILLS; CALIFORNIA 90210 RIChARD L. ROssEN 272-0531 274-0870 8 F LEE BAILEY ONE CENTER PLAZA BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 0r100 MEmbER: MAsS BAR EOWARD J.BELLEN 6 SANDGASSE FRANKFURT. MAIN GERMANY GOVERIIOR EDMUND G BROWN _ JR_ JUNE 21, 1978 State Capito] Building Sacramen Ca] i fornia Via Allard K. Lowenstein Dear Mr, Governor: He wish to thank Mr_ Lowenstein for presenting you with a prepub] ication copy of our forthcoming book from Random House, "THE ASSASSINATION OF ROBERT F m KENNEDY A Searching Look at the Conspiracy and Cover-up 1968-1978. The book i5 to be released by our isher on or before September Ist. The title 0f our book is quite reflective of its contents; while it is most contrary to what you' ve been told before by involved Iaw enforcement officials , we respectfully request, that you persona]Iy examine our evidence and then re- uata your position. If you find that our book contains sufficient information to support its centra) theme 7 then ble urge you to use the complete powers vested within office to see that this case receives an appropriate review at the earliest possible moment; we are asking the same of severa] other government officlals, who will be receiving copies of the book momentarily. We trust that you wil] understand the portent of this issue if Ieft to being unresolved any further; and we also ask for your assistance in providing for the safety of the many witnesses named within the pages of our book ourselves in- cluded; you may contact us through our counsel in this matter, Ir. Vincent Ta Bug] iosi, JGC/WWT:jh Very Sincerely, CC: Vincent TS Bug] josi Dr . Robert J," Joling, J , D. JONn G_ CHRISTIAM/ MILLIAM W. TURNER Bugliosi PRIVATE ~ONFIDENTIAL to, pub] - eva| yout Esq- ================================================== Page 24 ================================================== LAW OFFICES OF 'incent T. Bugliosi Steinberg & Bugliosi RobeRt K. STEINBERG. INC 9171 WILSHiRE BOULEVARD SUITE 332 ROBERT K. STEinBERG VINCENT T. Bugliosi BEVERLY HLLS. CALIFORNLA %210 RICHARD L: ROSSEN 272-8531 274-8870 & F LEE BAILEY ONE CENTER PLAZA boston, MAsSACHUsETTs 02108 MEMBER, MASS. DAR EDWARD J.BELLEN SANDGASSE FRANKFURT, MAIN GERMANY GOVERNOR EDMUND G BROHN JR_ OCTOBER 13 , 1978 State Capito] Bui Iding Sacramen Ca]ifornia Dear Mr _ Governor: In Tate June 0f this year we turned over to you (via Alard K. Lowenstein and Ms Caro] Moss) a specially-bound copy of our just-released book from Random House "i THE ASSASSINATION OF ROBERT F KEMNEDY A Searching Look at the Conspiracy and Cover-up 1968-1978 We are informed that it was received by your aide Mr _ William Press who as to have turned it over to you for your persona] examination_ We trust this has been done_ In our covering letter of June 21 we pointed out that there would be a possible threat to the safety of witnesses to elements of the conspiracy and cover-up in this case once the book was released to the pub]ic; such seems now to have happened to the entire family of some crucial witnesses We urgently request that you ass ign someone on your staff to make contact with us at the above address as soon as possible to see what might be done to afford the requisite security demanded in this situation, JGC/ HWT: jah Nery (Sincerely , CC: Vincent T_ Bug]iosi Dr Robert J_ Joling AIard K. Lowens tein Jonn "CHRISTIAN WILLIAR W_ TURNER ENGOSURE PRIVATE CONFIDENTIAL to, ================================================== Page 25 ================================================== LAW OFFICES OF 'incent T. Bugliosi Steinberg & Bugliosi ROBERT K, StEinBZRG, INC_ 9171 wilshiRe BOULEVARD, GuitI 332 ROBERT KSTEINBERG VINCENTT_ BuGLiosi BEVERLY HLLS CALIFORNIA 90210 RICHARD L. ROsSEN 272-8331 274-0070 F_ LEE BAILEY & ONE CENTER PLAZA bostoN, MASSACHUSETTS 02i00 MEMDeR: MASS. BAR EDWARD J. BELLEN SANDGASSE FRANKPURT MAIN GERMANY OFFICER FORREST HERRING OCTOBER 18 , 1978 Pomona Police Department Mission Boulevard Pomona , Ca] ifornia Dear Officer Herring: Pursuant to our phone conversation this morning at the home 0f Mrs Louise of your city: We trust that a review 0f our book on the Robert F_ Kennedy assassination will assist your department in assessing the events of the recent past around the Gray home certa- forma1 statements should be taken from a]1 members of the Gray fami ly as they relate to their individua] and lective reco] lections 0f relevant incidents and events; this Ive have done ourselves over the Tast two weeks ; we shou]d be happy to assist you in any way usefu] 0f course_ It is because 0f the history of the RFK case in the hands of Los Angeles (and subsequent State) Iaw enforcement officials that we have deemed it necessary to seek the intervention of higher governmental authority, especially at the Federal Ievels of government; we urge that you do the same jf you think the information developed by your investigators S0 warrants_ It is our opinjon that the Tives of many innocent persons could be at stake in this matter; thus we ask that your department take the affair seriously and act with a]1 due urgency_ Thanks for your attention and concern_ JGC/WWT: jah sincerely , CC: Vincent T, Bug] iosi Ms Andrea Ordin, JONn G_ CHRISTIAN United States Attorney WILLIAM W . TURNER ENCLOSURES PRIVATE CONFIDENTIAL Gray inly co] Very ================================================== Page 26 ================================================== LAW OFFICES OF Vincent T. Steinberg & Bugliosi ROJERT K: STEINAERG, INC. 917i Wilshirz BOULZVARD, SUITE 333 ROBERT K STEINBERG VINCENT T_ bugliosi BEVERLY HILLS; CALIFORNUA 90210 RICHARD LS ROSSEN 272-0531 274-8878 F_ LEE BAILEY ONE CENTER PLAZA JosTON MASSACHUSETTS 02108 MEMBER MASS, BAR EDWARD J_ BELLEN & SANDCAIBE FRANKFURT, MAIN GERMANY MS ANDREA ORDIN OCTOBER 18, 1978 United States Attorney 312 N Spring Street Los AngeTes Cali fornia 90012 Dear Ms Ordin: Several months ago we had hand-del ivered to you an advance (galeys) copy of our just-released book on the Robert F_ Kennedy assassination case_ In a covering Ietter 9 we made note that there might be danger in s tore for a many prospective witnesses" identified in this case via our book Such may now have occurred. Enclosed is a letter to the Pomona Po]ice Department re ating to some recent events concerning the members 0f the Johnny Gray fami Ty , some 0f who have now provided uS with additiona] information over and above that previously known and described in our book; it is our firm opinion that the ives of one or more of these witnesses could be in immediate danger_ We ask that you take immediate steps to protect the Iives of a11 members of the Gray fami ly in cooperation with the Pomona pol ice authorities. As previousIy stated we stand ready to assist your office in any way usefu]; however, we are s]ightly disturbed that we have to receive any kind of response from you about the contents and tentions of our book_ If you do not take our appea] seriousIy , please notify uS as such and we shall seek other intervention _ However_ it js our best opinion that your office has primary responsibility at this juncture_ JGC/WWT: jah Very sincerely, CC: Vincent T. Bug] iosi JONN G. CHRISTIAN/ Attorney General Griffin Bell WILLIAM W. TURNER Bugliosi PRIVATE CONFIDENTIAL good yet con- ================================================== Page 27 ================================================== CHRISTIAN/TURNER LAW OFFICES STEINBERG & BUGLIOSI 9171 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD, SUITE 332 BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA 90210 & ATTORNEY GENERAL GRIFFIN BELL U_ S_ Justice Department Washington, D. C. PRIVATE CONFIDENTIAL ================================================== Page 28 ================================================== Typea 10/12/77 BRC :AIH:JRR :pa 166-12C-1 Jotober 1 8_ Mr = Robert J, JolLng, J,D. Rizzo, Joling 6 Rlzgo, 8.C: guite 312 8chwartz Building 520 s8th. Btreet 92 Kenosha , WLeconstn 53140 iofeh) Dear Mr Joling: Your lettor 0f Auguat 30, 1977 _ to Mr _ Barry Jagode expreae:ng your view that tho late Benator Robert F . Kennedy wag the vIctim of 4 conapLraay , Wag referrad to the Crimtnal DIvJelon for conoLderatton ana reply, We AIO oE courae aware that not 411 Soronela Iclontlete are In agreement a8 to the avaluatlon of the phyetaal avI- dence found' at the scene of tho abbabe1natlon ana the con- cluslone to b drawn thereErom . MLnor dLacrepanclea aro albo preeent in othor evLdence relating to the avont. How- @vOr , sfter glving Eull conaLderatlon to the toregolng, in our viow, tho ovLdende that 81rhan g1rhan acted alone In the angab01natlon roma Lne compollIng. Le(L772 Aa all log-cal InvostLgatlon of the matter hae boon complated, wo 080 no useful purporo In ropetItlon thoroot. You suggebted that rallure to reply to 0 lottor of May 17 , 1977 , from Yu to Proe:dent Cartor On ehla gabject aarriob gorlou ImplLcatlons _ That ana avon tho dolay In thfo Te- Bponbe cortalnly evLdence BOm0 Lneffloloncy In our bureau- cracy , for whlch w0_ duly "pologLze , though Inotancab 02 thla nature have plagued the . cltLsonry Erom tlma Lmmomorfal . In any ovant, guch a fallure 10 ecant evIdence o1 any nofurlous echeme , and wO muet aJoagrao mobt forcefully that any suah Records General Crimes Robinson (2) 1937 "e/v A.L -K. ================================================== Page 29 ================================================== 2 5 scheme existe a8 you buggebt . In gummary, whIle wO approciate your concern ana your efforte In thle matter we remaln of the vlew that there 10 nothlng further to p dona wIth reepoct theroto. 81ncarely, BBNJAMIN R, CIVILETTI AbeLotant Attorney General Crtatnal Divlelon Bye ALFRED I. HANTMAN, Chlof General CrImee Sactlon CrImInal Dlvleion ================================================== Page 30 ================================================== ction ROUTING AND TRANSMTTAL SLIP To (Namo, ollico aymbol or locallon) initials ciacuLate DaTE GooRDIMATion General Crimes 'miTiaLS FIL DATE infoamation imitials MOTE AND RETurn Re: Letter from Robert J . Joling, Esg. to Barry Jagopa" BERSoF,on imitials SEE ME DaTe siGnatuRE REMARKS Per Radek' s conversation with Jim Robinson. Enclosure Do NOT use this form as 0 RECORD of concurrences, disappro vals, clearances, and sRfoalc actions From (Name, oMice eymbol or Iocallon) Date Lee J. Radek , Attorney 9-19-77 Public Integr Section PhonE 4592 OPTiONAL Form OPo 043-10--81418-1 410-016 5041-101 August 10 67 Gsa FPMr ( Jicfr) 10 0-11.206 ity ================================================== Page 31 ================================================== ZE 7 ee THE WHITE HOUsE WASHINGTON SEP 8 9 I9 AH '77 September 6 , 1977 {E .T Dear Mr Joling: I am in receipt of your letter and , in view of the interest and concern in this matter, I have taken the liberty of forwarding your correspondence (ana copy of Mr_ Ellard's letter) to the Department of Justice for further consideration_ Thank you for writing. Sincerely, Jagoda Special Assistant to the President Mr Robert J. Joling , J.D_ Rizzo, Joling & Rizzo, S.C . Suite 312 Schwartz Bldg_ 520 58th Street Kenosha , Wisconsin 53140 of 1 L SEP 8 1977 Cv X7J 078rtr Barry RECEIVED Lee_Yc MSTKCE NEPARTMEXA ' 1 ix/ / SEP SECTION RI0 INTEGRITY PUBLIC ================================================== Page 32 ================================================== LAW OFFICES Rizzo, JoLING & Rizzo, s. C. SUitE 312 SCHWARTZ BLDG 520 sbt4 stREET MIChAEL s.Rizzo KENOSHA, WIsCOnsiN 53140 TELEPAONE 658-1621 ROBERT J Joling AREA CODE 414 BRUNO M Rizzo August 30 , 1977 Mr Barry Jagoda Special Assistant to the President The White House Washington D _ C . 20500 Re : Robert F Kennedy Assassination Investigation Dear Mr Jagoda : Mr Michael Ellard of United Press International recently has forwarded the correspondence he has had with you _ This was sent to me for my personal edification _ On 17 1977 _ I addressed a letter to President Carter relative to the Robert F Kennedy assassination matter I forwarded this to President Carter from Los Angeles California_ Unfortunately I have not yet received a response to said correspondence As a result I continue to grow more apprehensive by It now appears that non-involvement at the highest level of government and avoidance of the implications embodied within this matter will continue The present status of the efforts in the case 0f the assa8sination of Senator Robert F Kennedy strongly indi- cates that there may well have been a conspiracy of some dimension involved in the taking of the Senator S life which may concomitantly involve an official cover-up continuing in effect to this very on a very broad scale _ Most ominous of al1 if indeed conspirators involved in the assas8ination of Senator Robert F Kennedy walk the streets as free men those of political persuasion entirely inimicable to that of President Carter or Vice President Mondale might attempt such a dastardly deed_ I respectfully request that you personally follow up on my earlier letter to the President If desired I would be most happy to meet with Attorney General Beli at which time I an sure my contentions could be aptly demonstrated to his complete satisfaction. May day day day again ================================================== Page 33 ================================================== Mr Barry Jagoda ~2 - August 30 , 1977 I will await your early affirmative action and reply _ Very truly yours Robert J_ Vice tres /dolng, Irternational Association of Forensic Sciences Past President American Academy of Forensic Sciences Associate in Law The American College of Legal Medicine Member British Academy of Forensic Sciences Member International Association of Traffic Medicine Former Associate Professor of Medical Jurisprudence University of Arizona College of Medicine Cc : Al Lowenstein Greg Stone Vincent Bugliosi Michael Eliard John Christian William Turner Cyril H. Wecht ================================================== Page 34 ================================================== Ulniteo Uress Unternational GENERAL OFFICES NEWS BUILDING, 220 EAST A2ND STREET NEW YORK, N. Y. 10017 W ritten from Los ANGELES NEWSPICTURES BUREAU 1543 WEST OLYMPIC BLVD: Los ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90015 June 2 , 1977 Mr Jimmy Carter President Of the United States of America 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington D C_ Dear Mr . President: Last week during your television appearance here in Los Angeles , I was one of those selected to ask questions_ Unfortunately, however , time ran out before my turn arrived_ although CBS TV had me ask my question after you had left the studio Enclosed is a Los Angeles Times story that appeared 19, 1977 , that encompasses the above _ My question deals with an issue that has been on the minds 0f most Americans for a long time: The assassinations Of the past decade and a half Recently the former special counsel of the House Comittee on Assassinations Mr Richara Sprague strongly recommended that you intercede in this issue by appointing a special prosecutor as in the Watergate affair He suggested that the House is too "political" a body but more importantly , the House is not capable of handling matters involving criminal investigations I am reliably informed that the House does not have the authority to either indict or convict anyone Assuming Mr Sprague s viewpoint is correct , it only seems logical and proper that the President of the United States of America take charge of this matter as soon as possible _ It was my impression that you shared the American people concern in this issue during your campaigning out here: in 1975_ BJ May 's ================================================== Page 35 ================================================== continued As a working news photographer , I have recently been provided with substantial information relating to a possible conspiracy in the Robert F Kennedy assassination Ironically some of this same evidence was being presented before the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors during your television appearance some 0f which we used in Wirephotos that night We also obtained a copy of the letter sent to you on this subject by Dr Robert J _ Joling the past President of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences It was Dr Joling and former Congressman Allard K Lowenstein who presented this new evidence before the Board of Supervisors on May 17th It seems to me that these two men of high reputation shoula be listened to on this matter I should like to know if you share the vast majority Of Americans concern on the assassination issue and if sO , whether or not you plan to confront it in the near future_ If I personaly can be of any whatsoever please feel free to contact me , I owe it to myself my profession_ I and my country. Respectfully "zJa) Michael LS Ellard MLE neo help ================================================== Page 36 ================================================== L Maseareky Delavan Stree6 N: J SE? FBBSI CLaG MR Bner Massarspy Jvj #i6 DEpt: Beba0~G Wosm wG+Gn, 6C 305/5 Roer 7/85 FROT HAG 3 0 Bexnard 245 07666 Teaneck, ~i0 ================================================== Page 37 ================================================== 6 OBD-171 9-15-76 (Formerly OMR-123 , AD-71 _ > 8i; 4 `321'71 LDN-136 and AD-430 , which may be used) GEco NOTICE PLFASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS SLIP FROM THE ATTACHED CORRESPONDENCE SINCE IT IS A PERMANENT PART 0F THE RECORD_ FLEFT22 Depgr;miw? Of :RTICE R SEP 12 1977 0 DOJ R.A.O. CIV M3 SEP ================================================== Page 38 ================================================== 27 Ali Il Stf Lxinsg dun , mG. 02/7} 96/-7/ 78, ================================================== Page 39 ================================================== William A Foley, Jr: Boston University Assistant to the 881 Commonwealth Avenue University Registrar Boston, Massachusetts 02215 617/353-3609 ================================================== Page 40 ================================================== CATHOLICISM AS A CAGPAIGN ISSUE In THE WEST TIRGINIA PRTMARY OF 1960' a primary resource paper; research con- ducted at the John F Kennedy Library, Waltham_ } Massachusetts Barry Mitchell Massarsky Boston University Professor Wm . Foley HI 616 Kennedy Presidency Fall Semester-_ ~ 1976 ================================================== Page 41 ================================================== ACKNOWLEDGEVENTS I began my research at 'Phe John F, Kennedy Library in Waltham Massachusetts with a limited knowledge o# my subject matter and an even more infintestimal understanding of a presidential library_ Thanks to the indefatiguable assistance of Will Johnson_ ' Joan Hoopes and the entire Kennedy research staff I was able to afford a more comprehensive appreciation for both my subject matter and the innerworkings of such a resourceful institution as the Kennedy Library. Will Johnson directed my research toward the oral history transcripts, the prepresidential papen; the Democratic National Committee papers , the memorandums letters and correspondences , which constitud the bulwark of this thesis_ For his assistance, I am hereby appreciative , The research was als0 the product of a beneficial relation- be tween Professor Foley and myself . His advice on attaclng the thesis_ our weekly meetings , and continuous supervision, made my research effort more comprehensive and easier to pre - pare . I am quite grateful for this assistance a lighter note, I would like to thank the MBTA for provi transportation to the library. Though they left me a mile away, I still would not have been able to accomplish my research goals without their trolleys and buses _ They were reas onably efficient though perhaps a more direct route to the library could be established. ship On ding ================================================== Page 42 ================================================== ij FOREWORD: This thesis contains manifold objectives : the effect 0f the Catholicism issue in the West Virginia primary of 1960, the political organization to combat it, the issue' s effect in the general election as well as other aspects of the primary which relate to the Catholicism issue I have included in my research other dimensions of the primary which provide the reader with a sensible overview of the climate of opinion in West Virginia. These aspects include Senator Hubert Humphrey' 8 challenge , the Kennedyesque charisma which propagated his political organization, the basic objections levied against a Catholic President, and 'other aspects pertinent to a discussion of this main issue _ I have substantially used the oral history interviews to demonstrate both the tical effectiveness of the Kennedy organizational forces and the pressures suffered by Kennedy S upporters due to the religious factor. In an effort to supple- ment these interviews , I have used the Democratic National Committee papers , the pre-presidential papers and other sources to broaden the scope 0f this research (ok poli ================================================== Page 43 ================================================== "hen Senator John Fi gerald ^ennedy began his quest for the presidency at the 1956 Democratic National Convention, he was well aware of the: tension surrounding his religious affil- iation. He could recite history in support of his concern; the 1928 Presidential election witnessed a_ wave of anti-Catholi sentiment against Democratic nominee Alfred Smith, which along with other prevailing issues of the 1920' s, resulted in his defeat. Kennedy was determined to confront this issue 0f religion in the primaries of the 1960 campaign and he chose the West Virginia primary as his proving ground to negate the issue from the public limelight . Yet Kennedy could be encouraged by the change in voting patterns since 1928 . Two important changes" are seen by Sam- uel Lubell, an experienced writer on politics , since the spect- acular election 0f 1928: "First, fairly large number of Cath- olics have been voting Republican in recent years-- which of |ok course, means there are more voters who could be won over by a Catholic Democrat_ The second change from 1928 is that the Democratic party now exerts a far stronger economic appeal to non-Catholic workers and farmers _ m 1 There existed a definite trend toward the re_ laxing of the religious question _ In fact, late in 1959 , 69 of a sample of voters stated that they would be willing to vote for a well- qualified candidate for President who happened to be a Roman Catholic, compared with 629 0f a sample in 1940, according to a report dated December 8 , 1959 , by George Gallup, director of 1- Report, 16 Bureau of Research and Survey, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America, 11 23, 1959 , +,z Yok coraek . 5ov f cobtbmn _ May p. 6 , ================================================== Page 44 ================================================== the American Institute of Public Opinion in Princeton, Vew 2 Jersey_ Elmo Roper, also a we ll-known student of public opinion, wrote a guest editorial in the Saturday_ Review New York, October 31, 1959 , asking the question, 10 how many (voters) 87 would actually forsake the party of their choice to vote against a Catholic?" Mr - Roper answers : One can only estimate-- my (A own estimate is from 6 to 8 per-cent,"3 Though the trend looks toward Kennedy' s favor, the issue of religion is still disturbing to a substantial amount of voters . Kennedy entered the West Virginia primary warned of the 9 5% Protestant constituency, but nerertheless eager for the challenge _ A Harris conducted in December, 1959 , just four months before the primary , gave Kennedy a 70-30 margin over his main rival, Senator Hubert Humphrey from Minnesota. Yet this was taken before the news of Kennedy' s Catholicism was established. The platform on which West Virginia politics are shaped 18 a buldge on the inner slope of the Appalachians , 24,282 square miles in extent ( forty-first state in the union in size) on which dwell 1,850,000 people . Theodore White explains the political theater on which Kennedy was to campaign: 0 if one were to choose those states whose politics (excluding the baroque courthouse states of the South) are the most squalid, corrupt and despicable , then one would add West Virginia to that Jukes family of American politics that included Indiana, Nassachusetts and Texas _ " 4 2 - Report , 01 Bureau of Research and Survey April 2 , 1960 , pa 1. 3 - Ibid_ 4- Theodore White . The Making_ of a President_1960 . P. 116 _ I66c0 7ucce turt h& poll poll 6 6 P. 2 . ================================================== Page 45 ================================================== 3- Intially, it appeared that Humprey would prove to be a formidable opponent Though Kennedy had earlier defeated him in his backyard, Wisconsin, the United Mrineworkers _ the big labor union in West Virginia, had strongly endorsed Humphrey in retaliation for Bobby and Jack:' s work on the McClellan committee . Interestingly, Kennedy won the labor vote in the primary _ Robert Kennedy suggested to his brother that the way to avoid an ugly religious brawl was to ask Humphrey to with- draw, If Humphrey continued and won, he would be charged with stirring up a revival of 1928 bigotry denounced as a tool of the anti-Catholics _ That would finish him as a crusading liberal and damage the Democratic party, Humphrey, fearful of appearing as a Kennedy.tool, resisted, Kennedy was all too eager: for the challenge in West Vir- ginia, As Ken 0' Donnell, his campaign aide explains Aside from the challenge of the religious issue, the primary in West Virginia became such a blatantly open effort on the part of all the other contenders to stop Kennedy that Jack' 8 aroused Irish temper made him eager to plunge into it."5 Inspite of his father' s advice, Kennedy never thought of retreating from the k m West Virginia challenge _ The attack on Humphrey as a straw candidate (Humphrey had 7 no actual chance of winning the nomination but served as a pawn for the stop-Kennedy movement) appealed to the West Virginians strong sense of fair play, and built up an attractive image of 5 - Kenneth 0' Donnell, et.al Mi Johnny We_Hardly Xnew p.186 . only and hustl Ipoi dx: , Spaw' Rnf 70861_ Jhx; u1 Ye ================================================== Page 46 ================================================== 4 Kennedy as the one and only genuine contender for the Presi- dential nomination who was concerned erough about the state and its unemployment problems t0' become involved in its primary_ Joseph Rauh, the chief Humphrey co-ordinator in the maries explained the Humphrey strategy: 1 Vle considered ourselves the favorites in the next two maries_ (District of Columbia and West Virginia) The question that you couldn' t debate that night was what good would:it have done_ to win the next two It would have killed Jack Kennedy, but it wouldn' t have elected Hubert Humphrey_ As you look back , if we couldn t carry Wis- consin, we couldn t nominate hin. It was a kind of feeling that when you one blow, you go back for another_ Therefore , it was unanimous there to g0 on (there referring to a meeting in Wisconsin) except , in my recollection, for a discussion on V81 finances-- and on finances the talk was not in the sense Let' s give up, but in the sense of, Oh G-d, what are we going to Qute 6 do?' " There was some mention during the West Virginia primary of financial inequities on the part of the Kennedy campaign effort. Rauh also addresses this issue: "The Humphrey camp thought the Kennedy camp was giving the West Virginia political leaders in the different areas funds _ Now I understand it' s a practice in West Virginia to funds to political leaders , which in turn use for poll watchers and S0 forth, and that is not, in fact, dishonest. Whether it is or it isn' t, it was our feeling that large sums were going to these leaders " 7 (o6 6- Joseph Rauh , recorded interview by Charles Morissey, December 23 1965, p. 58, John F Kennedy Library Oral History Program 7 - Ibid: PP. 66-67. pri- pri: get SooD give they ================================================== Page 47 ================================================== -5- Rauh has laid to rest the allegation that the Kennedy family had bought the West Virginia primary. It was a gross mis- conception of the complex political organization that Kennedy had created, And Rauh _ 9 leader of the opposition force, con- cedes that this allegation was false and inaccurate_ Kennedy had many advantages at the outset 0f the primary_ Interestingly, his Harvard accent; and urbane _ sophisticated charm was wondrously accepted by the conservative, West Virginia voter. His appeal was not unlike that of Franklin Roosevelt and many voters, appreciative of the Roosevelt effort during the depression, graciously accepted Kennedy_ This is apparent in an interview with a Kennedy campaign worker, Bob Myers _ 1 who reflected upon this image : What was the reaction of the West Virginians thatyou were with to the Harvard accent and the Eastern airs? Did you find any resentment of this in West Virginia or was he accepted as simply being a little bit different but nevertheless a good guy? Myers 8 Well, I think without question the Harvard accent was an asset, ok Young: This, too brought memories of Franklin 'Rooseveit? Myere Yes . And well, maybe_ this again is a personal opinion_ but 1 always feel that the outstanding public speaker is a man with his voice can be distinctive on the radio for example , as opposed to someone else' s _ I think the Harvard accent was was not resented to any extent at all and in fact, it became a tremendous asset to him. In order to perpetuate this Rooseveltian glamour and inage, 8- Bob Myers , recorded interview by William Young, July 11, 1964 , P. 9 , John F Kennedy Library Oral History Program _ Young: 98v4 7k0 _ ================================================== Page 48 ================================================== Kennedy employed the assistance of Franklin Roosevelt Jr, as part of the Kennedy organizational effort in West Virginia_ This connection proved to be overwhelmingly effective in Kennedy' s campaign _ Yet the religious factor was not to be overlooked in West Virginia. This was Kennedy' s opportunity to confront and defeat the issue_ Kennedy decided on a strategy for meeting the rel- igious issue in West Virginia and the nation. He would reassert his independence of ecclesiastical pressure as often as was necc - essary and attempt to stigmatize as bigots those who remained opposed to him on religious grounds only_ His first task would be to make clear his independence= his second, to the haters on the defensive, In a letter from Robert McDonough to Senator Kennedy , on May 19,1958, McDonough first points out the religious problem" and the difficulty in organizing support in West Virginia due to Kennedy' 8 Catholicism. McDonough ' s suggestion was simple: M I know of only one way to combat this-- personal contact and the 9 11 impression therefrom _ The Kennedy organizational team, spearheaded by McDonough, Ted Sorenson and Ralph Dungan, confronted the issue with seven basic approaches a5:a response to this problem" in West Virginia: (1) National statement by prominent clergy deploring issue-- mail to every West Vir- ginia Protestant minister from- them_ 1 not Kennedy office) 9- Letter from Robert McDonough to Senator Kennedy Iay 19 1958 Pre-Presidential Papers , Papers of President Kennedy , John F Kennedy Library put Vm 7p ================================================== Page 49 ================================================== (2) JI'; TV shows-- question and answer- 50/ of questions should be on religion same is true in all public appearances where questions possible) (3) Letter from JFK to every Protestant minister and editor, (draft attached) en- closing mimeographed document on JFK rec- ord (draft attached) (4 ) Distribute brochure on religious issue , with material from same document pictures of JFK in uniform with Protestant leaders _ (5) Series of TCs meetings with Protestant clergy in each West Virginia community of any size (6) JFX TV appeal on religious issue as well as newspaper ads (7) JFK letter to eJEfY registered Demo-_ crat (draft attached) The following reccommendations were made by Sorenson and Dun- gan: on approaches 1,2,3,7-- definitely yes ; on approach 5-- yes , wherever local people feel it would on approach 6-- last week if seems neccessary; on approach definitely no, too much like the hate-group approach _ 11 As can be witnessed by the aforementioned memorandum Kennedy enjoyed a highly-polished organizational mechanism, 6k directed by such loyal politicos as Theodore Sorenson, Ralph Dungan and Lawrence 0' Brien, as well as a bighly-developed contingency of local politicians ; its network of operations reaching all the major voting districts in West Virginia- These local politicians, organized by McDonough, dedicated themselves to a Kennedy primary victory_ Religion would be a sensitive issue in West Virginia and the burden was placed on these workers to ease the tension 0f Kennedy' 8 Catholicism. One of the most 10- Memorandum , 'Ted Sorenson and Ralph Dungan to Senator John F Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy April 18_ 1960 Pre-Pres- idential Papers , Papers of President "ennedy, John F Kennedy Library ll- Ibid; 20<' | help; 4t- ================================================== Page 50 ================================================== interesting aspects of tne campaig1, which truley symbolized the sensitivity of the religious factor, were the social pressures levied against these local politicians for woking on the Kennedy campaign, I examined a series of interviews furnished by tne John F Kennedy Oral History Interview Program. Though not all claimed discomfort in supporting Kennedy, these excerpts are enlightening and do shed a light on the severity 0f the religious factor in West Virginia. Bob Myers directed the campaign effort in the local sub_ urbs outside of Charleston. He disclaims any personal antagonism levied against him but does discuss the brevity of religion in his district: Young: There have been reports from some of the people who have been interviewed in West Virginia that members of their fam- ily because` they were associated with the Catholic candidate felt social pressure Not exactly not being invited to the right garden party but things of that sort. Were you or members of your family ever aware of anything of this nature? Myers I never_ I sometimes think when you involved in an emotional issue of this type that Again, maybe I' m being too broadminded, but we never experienced anything of this nature at all 1 not in the slightest_ Quite often, I think_ individuals might use something of this nature as an excuse for they weren' t invited some- where or something: But no, I never. Per- haps , I' m sure, up in the mountains of West Virginia in some counties _ this might be true but this was never an issue Young= : How do you feel your own predict_ ions held up with respect to religion as an issue? Myere 8 well-- and again maybe I'm playing Tnpokr Doviar No, get why_

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