Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode Summary: Teachers For Lyndon Johnson 48-07-16 Local Texas Program Endorsing Lyndon Johnson

Release Date: April 8, 2025

Harold's Old Time Radio takes listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio with its collection of classic broadcasts. In the episode titled "Teachers For Lyndon Johnson 48-07-16 Local Texas Program Endorsing Lyndon Johnson," the focus is on a fervent political endorsement from Texas educators supporting Lyndon B. Johnson's campaign for the United States Senate. This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, endorsements, and insights that underscore Johnson's commitment to education.

Introduction to Lyndon B. Johnson's Candidacy

The episode opens with a powerful speech by Lyndon B. Johnson himself, setting the tone for his Senate campaign:

Lyndon B. Johnson [00:08]: "The chime of the clock makes us remember that now is the time when good government is desperately needed... Lyndon Johnson is the man you want for your senator."

Johnson emphasizes his qualifications as a war veteran, his courage, and his alignment with the needs of the times, positioning himself as the ideal candidate for safeguarding the country's future.

Call to Action

Johnson continues to appeal directly to voters, stressing the importance of participation in the democratic process:

Lyndon B. Johnson [00:55]: "Let me urge you to be sure to go vote. It's your democratic privilege and duty."

He reinforces his vigor, ability, and experience, asserting that he has what it takes to effectively represent Texas in the Senate.

Focus on Education and Teacher Endorsements

The bulk of the broadcast centers around teachers endorsing Johnson, highlighting his longstanding commitment to education. The narrator sets the stage by reflecting on the role of educators in shaping future citizens:

Narrator [02:19]: "These teachers want you to know why they are supporting Lyndon Johnson for the Job of junior senator."

W.J. Moyes – Principal of Mirabeau B. Lamar High School

W.J. Moyes [04:08] shares his firsthand experience working with Johnson:

"I found him honest and straightforward, deeply interested in the education of American youth."

Moyes praises Johnson's advocacy for federal aid to education without restrictive conditions, assuring teachers that Johnson would be a steadfast ally in promoting educational causes.

Ms. Emma Mae Brotzi – President of the Texas State Teachers Association

Ms. Brotzi underscores the association's support for Johnson, referencing their official stance on federal aid:

Ms. Emma Mae Brotzi [05:11]: "We affirm our belief in federal aid to education without federal control."

Her endorsement reflects the collective support of over 40,000 members of the Texas State Teachers Association, emphasizing the alignment between Johnson's policies and the educators' vision for Texas schools.

Charles M. Rogers – Superintendent of Amarillo Public Schools

Charles M. Rogers [06:15] offers a robust endorsement, focusing on Johnson's legislative experience and commitment to education:

"Lyndon Johnson has proved that he can get things done... He is progressive in his thinking. He is aggressive in his efforts to get things done."

Rogers highlights Johnson's eleven years in Washington and his dedication to enhancing public education, portraying him as the transformative leader Texas needs in the Senate.

A.B. Comstock – Assistant Superintendent, Dallas Public Schools

A.B. Comstock [07:52] speaks to Johnson's high ideals and longstanding personal connection:

"I personally would like very much to see him Junior senator for the State of Texas."

Comstock's endorsement is rooted in Johnson's reputation among schoolmen and his embodiment of the qualities desired in public office.

Mary Wildenthal – Principal of a Cotulla Elementary School

Mary Wildenthal [08:39] recounts her experiences working alongside Johnson, highlighting his dedication to students and innovative initiatives:

"He organized a lunchroom for needy children... his enthusiasm and untiring energy soon made him a favorite with the Latin American children."

Wildenthal emphasizes Johnson's lasting impact on the community and his ongoing commitment to educational welfare.

Bob Shelton – Dean of Man, Stephen F. Austin College

Bob Shelton [10:00] shares a personal testimonial of Johnson's character and influence:

"Lyndon Johnson and I are graduates of the same school... He's a friend of the common man."

Shelton positions Johnson as a relatable and effective leader, further solidifying the trust and admiration he commands among educators.

Dr. C.E. Evans – President of the Teachers College of San Marcos

Dr. C.E. Evans [10:46] provides a comprehensive endorsement, detailing his extensive experience and interactions with Johnson:

"Lyndon hitchhiked San Marcos in 1927 to enroll in college and work his way through... Lyndon Johnson has always exerted his influence for the improvement of our educational system in Texas."

Evans underscores Johnson's grassroots beginnings, academic involvement, and unwavering support for educational advancements.

Superintendent Brian Dixon – San Angelo Schools

Superintendent Brian Dixon [12:18] reaffirms Johnson's positive track record in supporting educational initiatives:

"Lyndon Johnson is highly regarded as a congressman and as a friend of the public schools by the leaders of educational thought of America."

Dixon's endorsement highlights Johnson's reputation among national educational leaders and his role as a powerful advocate for Texas schools.

Conclusion and Final Endorsements

The episode wraps up by reiterating the collective support from various educators across Texas, emphasizing their unified call to action for voters to support Johnson:

Narrator [12:56]: "These teachers believe in Lyndon Johnson, who are working for Lyndon Johnson and who urge you to enlist with them to put a true friend of education in the Senate."

This powerful closing message reinforces the critical role of education in Johnson's platform and his dedication to preserving the values of liberty and justice through robust educational policies.

Notable Quotes

• Lyndon B. Johnson [00:08]: "Lyndon Johnson is the man you want for your senator."
• W.J. Moyes [04:08]: "He was a friend who will not fail them and one who will ever strive to promote the cause of education."
• Charles M. Rogers [06:15]: "He is the kind of man that Texas needs in the United States Senate."
• Mary Wildenthal [08:39]: "He was a friend to all teachers with whom he worked, and his popularity with the youth of the community was overwhelming."
• Dr. C.E. Evans [10:46]: "As an ex-teacher and as a Congressman, Lyndon Johnson has always exerted his influence for the improvement of our educational system in Texas."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio serves as a historical snapshot of political advocacy, showcasing Lyndon B. Johnson's strong ties with the education community in Texas. Through heartfelt endorsements and personal anecdotes, listeners gain insight into Johnson's commitment to education and his influence as a leader dedicated to the betterment of society through robust educational policies.

Note: Advertisements, intros, and outros present in the original broadcast have been omitted to maintain focus on the substantive content of the endorsement program.