Lyndon Johnson tells Richard Russell to serve on Warren Commission

Summary

In this tense conversation, a person implores Chief Justice Warren to accept a crucial role on a special commission, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the need for someone with his temperament and commitment to the country. Despite initial reluctance, the individual pushes Warren to accept, citing the importance of saving America and offering strong reassurances. The conversation reveals the high stakes involved, with a clear sense of urgency, persuasion, and personal commitment to the nation's wellbeing.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker emphasizes the importance of selecting the highest judicial figures for critical positions in the country.
• 😀 The speaker suggests that the person they are addressing has the right temperament to serve as Chief Justice of the country.
• 😀 The person being addressed is encouraged to serve for the good of the country, despite any personal hesitations.
• 😀 The speaker dismisses any excuses or resistance, insisting that the person must serve in the role of Chief Justice.
• 😀 The speaker stresses that the situation is urgent and there is sensitive evidence to consider, implying that the country is at a critical juncture.
• 😀 There is a direct mention of the importance of the Chief Justice's role in saving America during this delicate time.
• 😀 The speaker lists other influential figures who are involved, including Chief Justice Warren and Senator Richard Russell.
• 😀 The speaker strongly urges the person to serve, asserting that their country needs them and they cannot refuse.
• 😀 The speaker refers to previous discussions about appointing someone to the Supreme Court, but emphasizes that the current focus is on appointing the Chief Justice.
• 😀 The speaker recounts a past attempt to persuade Bobby Kennedy to serve, underscoring the difficulty of filling such an important position.
• 😀 The speaker confirms that the decision to appoint the person has already been made and announced, implying that no further discussion is needed on the matter.

Q & A

Why does the speaker emphasize Chief Justice Warren's qualifications?

The speaker highlights Warren's role as the chief justice of the country, emphasizing the importance of having the highest judicial figures in positions of power. The speaker believes Warren has the temperament and capability to serve the country effectively.

What is the speaker trying to convince the listener to do?

The speaker is trying to convince the listener to serve on a special commission, insisting that they are the right person for the job and that their service is crucial for the country.

What does the speaker suggest about the Chief Justice's role?

The speaker suggests that the Chief Justice should be willing to do anything to save America, even under challenging or complex circumstances. The emphasis is on national duty over personal reluctance.

How does the speaker address the listener's possible reluctance to serve?

The speaker dismisses any potential reluctance by insisting that the listener can serve, stating that they should not give excuses and implying that they have the duty to accept the position.

What is the speaker's stance on the importance of the commission?

The speaker believes that the commission is highly significant, referencing the inclusion of high-profile figures such as Chief Justice Warren, Senator Richard Russell, and others, and stresses that the listener must serve on it.

How does the speaker justify their demand for the listener to serve on the commission?

The speaker argues that the decision has already been made, and that the listener is essential to the success of the commission. The speaker frames the situation as one of national importance and emphasizes the listener's ability to contribute.

What role does the speaker assign to others in the commission?

The speaker mentions other key members of the commission, including Chief Justice Warren, Senator Richard Russell, and others like Alan Dulles and John McCloy, indicating that they are part of a high-level decision-making body.

How does the speaker deal with the listener's objections?

The speaker dismisses the listener's objections by being firm, saying they can't be arrested or forced but will certainly serve, indicating the inevitability of the listener's involvement.

What does the speaker imply about past attempts to convince others to serve?

The speaker mentions that Bobby Kennedy was also approached but declined, underscoring the difficulty in recruiting high-level individuals and highlighting the importance of the listener's commitment.

What is the significance of the statement 'it's already done'?

The speaker asserts that the decision to involve the listener has already been publicly announced, indicating that the listener's participation is no longer a choice but a fact, making it clear that the decision is final.