TLS as president signed "Lyndon," one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, December 9, 1963. Letter to Indiana Senator Vance Hartke and his wife, in full: "It would be impossible to ask more from two wonderful friends than what you have offered to me, your hearts and prayers. This knowledge has provided me with a source of strength, courage and comfort during these difficult days. It is with profound respect and deep appreciation that I extend to you my warmest personal regards." In fine condition, with staple holes and associated rust stains to the upper left corner.
Johnson, who had suddenly, tragically become president just seventeen days earlier, had just spent his first night in the White House on December 7th. With the nation in mourning, Johnson here expresses his profound appreciation to a fellow Democrat for his support during the difficult transition. Hartke was one of Johnson's early allies in the Senate, lobbying for LBJ's major 'Great Society' programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. However, they later had a falling out over Johnson's policies in Vietnam. A significant early letter from President Johnson written in the aftermath of Kennedy's assassination.
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