MANUSCRIPT NOTES FOR CAMPAIGN SPEECH
[1975]. Manuscript. Four legal-sized (8-1/2" x 13") lined yellow sheets written on one side only comprising notes for a pivotal campaign speech given on 3 August 1976 with a focus on the American family. The notes are what Carter's main speechwriter, Patrick Anderson, used to craft Carter's first major speech since his nomination the previous month as the Democratic candidate to face Gerald Ford in the Bicentennial election. According to THE NEW YORK TIMES, "Mr. Carter had a prepared text, polished by his speech writer, Patrick Anderson, but he chose to wander freely, improvising phrases and sentences as he went along" (4 August 1976, page 12). Carter puts a note at the top: "Pat: write it all-- just put part on family in news hand out." Carter covers a number of issues related to the family including the government's role: "If we want less govt, we must have stronger families. Govt steps in by necessity when families have failed." He discusses the welfare system and income tax, with a bit of humor: "Some say that income tax exemptions for children encourage large families. I agree with Sen. Mondale: we never discussed tax laws at that time in my house." Carter lists various statistics on the family and the weaknesses he perceives in Ford's policies. He even makes a statement about abortion: "Recent court decision [the landmark case Planned Parenthood of Central Missouri v. Danforth decided on by the Supreme Court on 1 July 1976] causes me concern -- Gov't should have comprehensive program -- fam plan -- adoption -- education -- moral leadership." A few notes in the margins, likely in Anderson's hand, but the bulk of the text is written by Carter. A scarce glimpse into the campaign of our Bicentennial president. Fine. Item #022512
Provenance: Hantman's Auction: Robert L. White Sale: 16 May 2004: Lot 1345.
Price: $15,000.00