ENDORSING NIXON'S CANDIDACY 949

shattering crises on the political mind of State and nation. Above
all, we wanted to observe the reactions of the contenders for the
Presidency and weigh any alterations in their political positions.

I have observed, analysed, weighed, and decided. Consequently the
retention of a Favorite Son candidacy would be a travesty of all I

believe. Therefore I am releasing Maryland's delegation to cast their
votes as they see fit on the first ballot.

I cannot speak for the Maryland delegation, but as an individual
delegate months of soul searching thought and days of private dis-
cussions with the candidates have led me to the following conclusions:

The 1968 election will revolve around many issues — Vietnam and
world peace; the volcanos we call cities; inflation and rising taxes;
civil rights and civil disorders. But the underlying and ultimate is-
sue is the survival of America's enduring values in a time of troubled
and turbulent change.

America and America's Republican Party are fortunate that at
this time, when new leadership is so desperately needed, our party
offers so many proven leaders.

Each of the three serious contenders for the Republican nomination
possesses the qualifications and the capacity to assume the duties and
burdens of the Presidency.

Governor Reagan, in his brief tenure as chief executive of Cali-
fornia, has masterfully and imaginatively administered America's
most populous state.

Governor Rockefeller's record over the past ten years stands as an
example and an inspiration to all Governors, present and future. His
administration has been one of unprecedented action and achieve-
ment.

Vice President Nixon's experience is without peer. He alone has
held the awesome power and responsibilities granted the one man a
heartbeat from the Presidency. He alone has known the years of
legislative seasoning as a Congressman and a Senator. He alone has
confronted world leaders and participated in top level national
security decisions.

Thus, the difference does not entirely rest in past experience or
present preparation, but in each candidate's worth to the future. We
need a man of calm strength, a master of strategy able to resist for
the good of the country the clamor of those who — some in good