operation. In I960, I called for a conference in Annapolis of the
governors and representatives of the 11 states of the Appalachia
Region of our nation to discuss a regional approach to the economic
development of this area. This initial spark grew into a full fire with
the passage of President Johnson's Appalachia Program which will do
so much to aid the three western counties of our State.

Our concern for safety on the roads brought into being the point
system, the driver rehabilitation clinics, a tougher driving test, stiffer
penalties for drunken driving, automobile inspection and minimum
safety standards for new tires for passenger cars and station wagons.

With State and federal help, airports have been constructed from
Ocean City to Oakland.

Our concern for the consumer and home-owner brought into being
the regulation of the savings and loan and home improvement in-
dustries and our concern for justice and the reputation of our courts
impelled us to improve our lower court system. To assist the four
counties of Southern Maryland in adjusting to the loss of revenue
from gambling devices, we have instituted a special program to benefit
them.

The benefits of full citizenship in our society have been extended to
all our people. Maryland has never denied the ballot to any citizen
and will continue to see that all men and women receive equal justice
under the law. These accomplishments stand as a monument to no
man. Rather they reflect your interest in the progress of your State
and your concern for the well-being of your fellow citizens.

I know that, without any urging from me, you will continue to
manifest this most noble interest in the affairs of your State and your
Party. However, I must urge and emphasize to you the need and in
fact the absolute necessity for party unity. We all know that the pri-
mary election of 1966 will be held in September with the general
election following in November. A Democrat will, and must, be my
successor. But, we can insure this Democratic succession only if the
Democratic Party can unite behind its candidate without a bitter and
therefore possibly fruitless primary. There will be little time to reunite
to face the Republican challenge.

I am doing everything possible to encourage and to achieve this
necessary unity of purpose. I have met and will continue to meet with
leaders of the Democratic Party to arrive at a common consensus. I
look forward to your suggestions, guidance, and efforts to obtain this
Democratic unity. We cannot afford the luxury of factionalism, if we

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