MEMBERS OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY 731

Q. Governor, Governor Rockefeller in his press conference clearly
indicated that he thought Mr. Nixon was the choice of the Repub-
lican Party. That being the case, if Mr. Nixon is nominated, will
you take an active part in supporting him?

A. Yes, I certainly would. I have indicated even during the time I
have been most outspoken for Governor Rockefeller, I have indicated
that Mr. Nixon is a very acceptable candidate to me and in fact said
on several occasions he may be my second choice.

Q. You don't want to say either way whether or not you're going to
continue your efforts?

A. No, I want time to analyze the situation as it has developed. As
I indicated to you, this comes as a complete surprise to me. As I said
during my press conference in response to a question before the Gov-
ernor's statement came on, I had scrupulously avoided being a con-
fidant in the decision and I knew no more than anyone else did. I'm
surprised. I want a chance to think it over.

LETTER TO MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
March 26, 1968

You are concluding what for many of you has been an arduous and
difficult session of the Maryland General Assembly. On balance, it
has been a productive one, and I commend you for a series of sub-
stantial legislative accomplishments.

The massive water pollution control program you have enacted will
enable Maryland to move swiftly and decisively toward permanent
protection of one of her most valuable natural resources.

You also have produced meaningful legislation to reform our out-
moded business tax structure, infuse some new life into our lagging
roads program, strengthen the hand of public officials in coping with
civil disorders, and place Maryland in the forefront of states offering
a new approach to correctional problems by authorizing establishment
of regional detention centers.

The bills to raise the legal interest rate while eliminating many
gimmicks from lending practices and to liberalize the abortion laws
under the strict supervision of medical authorities are also major legis-
lative achievements in the public interest which merit public praise.