NEWS CONFERENCE 785

but I have talked to a large number of members who have indicated
that they favor it because it does, in a lot of respects, improve the
stature of the Legislature.

Q. Senator James, how about you?

Senator James: Well, like Speaker Mandel, I have made no count
but I would think from conversations that the Senate generally favors
the adoption of the proposed Constitution. The position of the Legis-
lature is certainly dignified by expanding the days in which it can
operate; by giving the individual legislator a more prominent position;
by the improvement of the procedures in the legislative operation;
generally making the Legislature more important in the total picture.

Q. Judge, the majority of the Court are already on record as favor-
able.

Judge Hammond: I don't know. I haven't canvassed them but I
would think so.

Senator James: One feature of it — the elimination of the local
government function at the legislative level — is certainly a milestone
in Maryland government. It will free the General Assembly to con-
centrate upon State problems. This, together with the lengthening of
the number of days which the Legislature can sit and enabling the
individual legislator to put more time on public problems, all these
together are enormously beneficial to the General Assembly.

NEWS CONFERENCE
May 3, 1968

Governor: I don't have any statements, but I thought since I've been
away for over a week you may have some.

Questions and Answers

Q. Governor, the State Central Committee a few weeks ago just
about unanimously asked you to run as Favorite Son. Are you con-
sidering it?

A. I'm still considering it. I must say I am flattered by the confidence
of the State Central Committee, and I'm considering it for a little
longer before I make a final decision. I'm leaning in the direction of
accepting the assignment.