Maybe. But I tend to think otherwise, as explained in my next post.
How We Lost Detroit: The Fermi Nuclear Disaster
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Maybe. But I tend to think otherwise, as explained in my next post.
Jan. 9, 1969
January 9, 1969
Congress declares Humphrey President, Muskie Vice-President
Today, the House and Senate voted to choose Hubert Humphrey and Edmund Muskie as President and Vice President, respectively. In the House, 27 state delegations supported Humphrey [1][2], one more than the majority needed to secure the Presidency. The remaining 23 delegations voted for his Republican opponent, George Romney, who actually received more electoral votes than Humphrey. In the Senate, Edmund Muskie was easily chosen as Vice President, with the support of 56 Democratic senators. His rival, Ronald Reagan, received the other 43 votes. [3]
Some Republicans, upset by Humphrey’s victory, are calling for an end to the Electoral College, claiming that the system unfairly favors the Democrats. “I believe the events of 1968 constitute the clearest proof that priority must be accorded to Electoral College reform,” said former Vice President Richard Nixon. [4] However, abolishing the Electoral College is not easy, as it would require a constitutional amendment.
Congress declares Humphrey President, Muskie Vice-President
Today, the House and Senate voted to choose Hubert Humphrey and Edmund Muskie as President and Vice President, respectively. In the House, 27 state delegations supported Humphrey [1][2], one more than the majority needed to secure the Presidency. The remaining 23 delegations voted for his Republican opponent, George Romney, who actually received more electoral votes than Humphrey. In the Senate, Edmund Muskie was easily chosen as Vice President, with the support of 56 Democratic senators. His rival, Ronald Reagan, received the other 43 votes. [3]
Some Republicans, upset by Humphrey’s victory, are calling for an end to the Electoral College, claiming that the system unfairly favors the Democrats. “I believe the events of 1968 constitute the clearest proof that priority must be accorded to Electoral College reform,” said former Vice President Richard Nixon. [4] However, abolishing the Electoral College is not easy, as it would require a constitutional amendment.
[1] There is a relevant thread on this scenario from this very site: https://www.alternatehistory.com/fo...tial-election-gets-thrown-to-congress.238056/
[2] The Democrats had control of 26 state delegations, who would likely vote for Humphrey. Even if their state went for Wallace, I think it’s unlikely that southern Democrats would vote for him, as doing so would likely mean a Romney victory. While the House Dixiecrats opposed civil rights, they were still Democrats (Democrats were the dominant party in the south until the 90s). Five states had split delegations: Oregon, Montana, Illinois, Virginia, and Maryland. All except Maryland voted for Nixon in OTL (and Romney in ATL). I assume each state delegation would vote for whoever won the state, though that is not a given. This scenario is explored here: https://www.quora.com/What-would-ha...ey-from-obtaining-270-electoral-votes-in-1968
[3] I assume Muskie would have to recuse himself, so totals add to 99.
[4] https://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-electoral-college-history-20161219-story.html
[2] The Democrats had control of 26 state delegations, who would likely vote for Humphrey. Even if their state went for Wallace, I think it’s unlikely that southern Democrats would vote for him, as doing so would likely mean a Romney victory. While the House Dixiecrats opposed civil rights, they were still Democrats (Democrats were the dominant party in the south until the 90s). Five states had split delegations: Oregon, Montana, Illinois, Virginia, and Maryland. All except Maryland voted for Nixon in OTL (and Romney in ATL). I assume each state delegation would vote for whoever won the state, though that is not a given. This scenario is explored here: https://www.quora.com/What-would-ha...ey-from-obtaining-270-electoral-votes-in-1968
[3] I assume Muskie would have to recuse himself, so totals add to 99.
[4] https://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-electoral-college-history-20161219-story.html
Jan. 12, 1969
January 12, 1969
Humphrey assembles his cabinet
With just a week before his inauguration, President-elect Hubert Humphrey announced his selections to head important cabinet posts. About half of Johnson’s appointees will be retiring at the end of his term, which will cause some vacancies that need to be filled. The remaining half of holdovers will continue to serve during the transition.
Returning to serve in the Humphrey administration are several recently-appointed members of the Johnson cabinet. These holdovers are Treasury Secretary Joseph W. Barr, Defense Secretary Clark Clifford, Postmaster General W. Marvin Watson, Commerce Secretary C.R. Smith, HEW Secretary Wilbur J. Cohen, HUD Secretary Robert Coldwell Wood, and UN Ambassador James Russell Wiggins. [1]
The other half of the cabinet members will be replaced by new appointees. Undersecretary of State Nicholas Katzenbach will be appointed as Secretary of State. [2] Deputy Attorney General Warren Christopher will be appointed as Attorney General. [3] Undersecretary of Labor James J. Reynolds will be appointed as Secretary of Labor. [4] Consumer advocate Ralph Nader will be appointed as Secretary of Transportation. [5] Congresswoman and Chairman of the Interior and Related Agencies Subcommittee Julia Butler Hansen (D-WA) will be appointed as Secretary of the Interior, making her the first woman to hold that position and only the second woman in American history to serve in the Cabinet. [6] Lastly, Roland Renne, [7] former President of Montana State College and Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for International Affairs under President Kennedy, will be appointed as Secretary of Agriculture. [8]
Humphrey assembles his cabinet
With just a week before his inauguration, President-elect Hubert Humphrey announced his selections to head important cabinet posts. About half of Johnson’s appointees will be retiring at the end of his term, which will cause some vacancies that need to be filled. The remaining half of holdovers will continue to serve during the transition.
Returning to serve in the Humphrey administration are several recently-appointed members of the Johnson cabinet. These holdovers are Treasury Secretary Joseph W. Barr, Defense Secretary Clark Clifford, Postmaster General W. Marvin Watson, Commerce Secretary C.R. Smith, HEW Secretary Wilbur J. Cohen, HUD Secretary Robert Coldwell Wood, and UN Ambassador James Russell Wiggins. [1]
The other half of the cabinet members will be replaced by new appointees. Undersecretary of State Nicholas Katzenbach will be appointed as Secretary of State. [2] Deputy Attorney General Warren Christopher will be appointed as Attorney General. [3] Undersecretary of Labor James J. Reynolds will be appointed as Secretary of Labor. [4] Consumer advocate Ralph Nader will be appointed as Secretary of Transportation. [5] Congresswoman and Chairman of the Interior and Related Agencies Subcommittee Julia Butler Hansen (D-WA) will be appointed as Secretary of the Interior, making her the first woman to hold that position and only the second woman in American history to serve in the Cabinet. [6] Lastly, Roland Renne, [7] former President of Montana State College and Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for International Affairs under President Kennedy, will be appointed as Secretary of Agriculture. [8]
[1] This is consistent with the Reagan/Bush transition. Most will be replaced later (in 1969 or 1970): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presidency_of_Lyndon_B._Johnson#Administration
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicholas_Katzenbach
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warren_Christopher
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_J._Reynolds
[5] Controversial pick, but not unreasonable IMO.
[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julia_Butler_Hansen and https://history.house.gov/People/Detail/14500
[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roland_Renne
[8] I’m not the first to speculate about a Humphrey cabinet on this site (see post #15): https://www.alternatehistory.com/forum/threads/hubert-h-humphrey-elected-president-in-1968.129158/
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicholas_Katzenbach
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warren_Christopher
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_J._Reynolds
[5] Controversial pick, but not unreasonable IMO.
[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julia_Butler_Hansen and https://history.house.gov/People/Detail/14500
[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roland_Renne
[8] I’m not the first to speculate about a Humphrey cabinet on this site (see post #15): https://www.alternatehistory.com/forum/threads/hubert-h-humphrey-elected-president-in-1968.129158/
Jan. 20, 1969
January 20, 1969
The inauguration of President Hubert Humphrey
On a cold day in Washington, D.C., a new President was inaugurated into office. The inauguration of Hubert Humphrey as the 37th President of the United States was accompanied by the usual fanfare. Many thousands of Humphrey’s supporters (and a few protesters) lined the streets of Washington, D.C. to catch a glimpse of the President-elect’s motorcade as it made its way to the Capitol. [1]
But today’s inauguration ceremonies were not without sorrow. Humphrey, now visibly emaciated with thinning hair, waved at the crowd as he was pushed along in a wheelchair by his wife, Muriel. Chief Justice Earl Warren administered the oath of office. Mustering all his strength, President Humphrey stood up, raised his arm and said swore the oath of allegiance.
Despite his physical weakness, Mr. Humphrey gave a 45-minute speech (unusually short for Humphrey). Humphrey began by thanking his supporters for their prayers, calling it a “healing balm”. [2] Always optimistic, Humphrey disputed his grave prognosis. "I'm not going to quit as fast as they think I will. I'm Hubert Humphrey, and all those damn statistics don't mean anything when it comes to me." [3]
In his concluding remarks, Humphrey called for courage: “Too many people in politics today are afraid. They're afraid, they say, oh they won't go for this. Well I knew they wouldn't go for civil rights in 1948. I knew they wouldn't go for Medicare in 1949. I knew that they wouldn't go for the Peace Corps in 19-hundred-and-58, and I knew they wouldn't go, if you please, for the Arms Control Disarmament Agency in 1959. But ultimately they did! If you're going to be a man in politics, you have to be like a soldier on the battlefield. You know there are risks. There's no guarantee of your life, but as somebody once said, I'd rather live fifty years like a tiger than a hundred years like a chicken.” [4]
The inauguration of President Hubert Humphrey
On a cold day in Washington, D.C., a new President was inaugurated into office. The inauguration of Hubert Humphrey as the 37th President of the United States was accompanied by the usual fanfare. Many thousands of Humphrey’s supporters (and a few protesters) lined the streets of Washington, D.C. to catch a glimpse of the President-elect’s motorcade as it made its way to the Capitol. [1]
But today’s inauguration ceremonies were not without sorrow. Humphrey, now visibly emaciated with thinning hair, waved at the crowd as he was pushed along in a wheelchair by his wife, Muriel. Chief Justice Earl Warren administered the oath of office. Mustering all his strength, President Humphrey stood up, raised his arm and said swore the oath of allegiance.
Despite his physical weakness, Mr. Humphrey gave a 45-minute speech (unusually short for Humphrey). Humphrey began by thanking his supporters for their prayers, calling it a “healing balm”. [2] Always optimistic, Humphrey disputed his grave prognosis. "I'm not going to quit as fast as they think I will. I'm Hubert Humphrey, and all those damn statistics don't mean anything when it comes to me." [3]
In his concluding remarks, Humphrey called for courage: “Too many people in politics today are afraid. They're afraid, they say, oh they won't go for this. Well I knew they wouldn't go for civil rights in 1948. I knew they wouldn't go for Medicare in 1949. I knew that they wouldn't go for the Peace Corps in 19-hundred-and-58, and I knew they wouldn't go, if you please, for the Arms Control Disarmament Agency in 1959. But ultimately they did! If you're going to be a man in politics, you have to be like a soldier on the battlefield. You know there are risks. There's no guarantee of your life, but as somebody once said, I'd rather live fifty years like a tiger than a hundred years like a chicken.” [4]
[1] For reference, the OTL inauguration of Richard Nixon: https://time.com/5506809/richard-nixon-inauguration/ and https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/national/longterm/inaug/history/stories/nixon69.htm
[2] https://www.washingtonpost.com/arch...f6e61c5/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.d6023f527e9d
[3] https://www.washingtonpost.com/arch...87d-80bf-7e5d0b51a08d/?utm_term=.23d9d32e1280
[4] Taken from Humphrey’s final public speech, given in September 1977. In case you’re wondering, he would have been 57 in 1969 (so I guess mostly tiger and a little bit chicken?). See also: http://www2.mnhs.org/library/findaids/00442/pdfa/00442-04126.pdf
[2] https://www.washingtonpost.com/arch...f6e61c5/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.d6023f527e9d
[3] https://www.washingtonpost.com/arch...87d-80bf-7e5d0b51a08d/?utm_term=.23d9d32e1280
[4] Taken from Humphrey’s final public speech, given in September 1977. In case you’re wondering, he would have been 57 in 1969 (so I guess mostly tiger and a little bit chicken?). See also: http://www2.mnhs.org/library/findaids/00442/pdfa/00442-04126.pdf
Jan. 27, 1969
January 27, 1969
Gartner quashes rumors about Humphrey’s illness
Rumors have swirled around Washington ever since President Humphrey’s cancer diagnosis was announced publicly. Speaking with reporters, David Gartner, Humphrey’s Chief of Staff [1], strenuously denied that the President was incapacitated. While Gartner acknowledged that the President’s condition has deteriorated rapidly over the last week, he said Humphrey was still of sound mind and capable of making important decisions. He said that rumors that Vice President Muskie was already performing Presidential duties were greatly exaggerated.
Humphrey’s doctor confirmed that the President struggles to get out of bed, and has been unable to walk without collapsing. Most alarmingly, the normally loquacious Humphrey gave up talking on the telephone. [2][3] It seems that the end is now quite near. Despite this grim prognosis, Humphrey retains his characteristic optimism. He continues to be visited by friends and colleagues. Economist Walter Heller, who visited the President, was reportedly “shocked” to see him up close. "He was so emaciated. But that wonderful Hubert Humphrey spirit was still there." [2]
Gartner quashes rumors about Humphrey’s illness
Rumors have swirled around Washington ever since President Humphrey’s cancer diagnosis was announced publicly. Speaking with reporters, David Gartner, Humphrey’s Chief of Staff [1], strenuously denied that the President was incapacitated. While Gartner acknowledged that the President’s condition has deteriorated rapidly over the last week, he said Humphrey was still of sound mind and capable of making important decisions. He said that rumors that Vice President Muskie was already performing Presidential duties were greatly exaggerated.
Humphrey’s doctor confirmed that the President struggles to get out of bed, and has been unable to walk without collapsing. Most alarmingly, the normally loquacious Humphrey gave up talking on the telephone. [2][3] It seems that the end is now quite near. Despite this grim prognosis, Humphrey retains his characteristic optimism. He continues to be visited by friends and colleagues. Economist Walter Heller, who visited the President, was reportedly “shocked” to see him up close. "He was so emaciated. But that wonderful Hubert Humphrey spirit was still there." [2]
[1] In OTL, Gartner was Humphrey’s personal assistant. https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2009-10-13-0910130069-story.html
[2] https://www.washingtonpost.com/arch...b51a08d/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.8129ad9c9457
[3] Humphrey was notoriously long-winded. As a New York Times article put it, “One favorite Washington joke says that a definition of an optimist is a woman who puts her shoes on when Hubert Humphrey says, ‘In conclusion...’” From: https://www.nytimes.com/1978/01/15/...tate-in-capitol-carter-leads-tributes-as.html
[2] https://www.washingtonpost.com/arch...b51a08d/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.8129ad9c9457
[3] Humphrey was notoriously long-winded. As a New York Times article put it, “One favorite Washington joke says that a definition of an optimist is a woman who puts her shoes on when Hubert Humphrey says, ‘In conclusion...’” From: https://www.nytimes.com/1978/01/15/...tate-in-capitol-carter-leads-tributes-as.html
Feb. 3, 1969
February 3, 1969
President Humphrey Dies of Bladder Cancer [1]
The happy warrior has fought his last battle. President Humphrey passed away last night at the age of 57. He reportedly died around 4 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, shortly after he had lapsed into a coma. It was not until yesterday that his doctors said that his condition was critical and his aides acknowledged its seriousness. [2]
Upon the news of Humphrey’s death, Edmund Muskie was sworn in as the 38th President at the Vice Presidential residence at the Naval Observatory. Under the 25th Amendment, the Vice President automatically assumes the role of the President upon his death, much as President Johnson assumed the Presidency after President Kennedy’s assassination a little more than five years ago. After being sworn in, Muskie was immediately escorted to the White House by the Secret Service, closely followed by a throng of reporters.
President Muskie’s first order of business was to give a brief televised speech to the American people informing them of the passing of the President. “He had an incurable optimism about the future,” Muskie said of Humphrey. “He refused to look at the past, refused to concede that any setback was a defeat. And…I remember something he said: that people did not turn away from those who were defeated. His attitude about life was made up of courage (he demonstrated that; we don't have to debate that), faith in the future, but above all, he believed as, I think to a greater degree than Thomas Jefferson did, that the average citizen, if given a full opportunity to enhance his own capabilities and to use them, could govern himself and could shape the future. He believed anything could be done that we wanted to do and believed could be done.” [3]
President Humphrey Dies of Bladder Cancer [1]
The happy warrior has fought his last battle. President Humphrey passed away last night at the age of 57. He reportedly died around 4 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, shortly after he had lapsed into a coma. It was not until yesterday that his doctors said that his condition was critical and his aides acknowledged its seriousness. [2]
Upon the news of Humphrey’s death, Edmund Muskie was sworn in as the 38th President at the Vice Presidential residence at the Naval Observatory. Under the 25th Amendment, the Vice President automatically assumes the role of the President upon his death, much as President Johnson assumed the Presidency after President Kennedy’s assassination a little more than five years ago. After being sworn in, Muskie was immediately escorted to the White House by the Secret Service, closely followed by a throng of reporters.
President Muskie’s first order of business was to give a brief televised speech to the American people informing them of the passing of the President. “He had an incurable optimism about the future,” Muskie said of Humphrey. “He refused to look at the past, refused to concede that any setback was a defeat. And…I remember something he said: that people did not turn away from those who were defeated. His attitude about life was made up of courage (he demonstrated that; we don't have to debate that), faith in the future, but above all, he believed as, I think to a greater degree than Thomas Jefferson did, that the average citizen, if given a full opportunity to enhance his own capabilities and to use them, could govern himself and could shape the future. He believed anything could be done that we wanted to do and believed could be done.” [3]
[1] Two weeks after his inauguration and coincidentally 51 years ago today. In OTL, Humphrey did not die of bladder cancer until 1978. As Humphrey said to President Gerald Ford in 1977, “Mr. President, you've had 2 1/2 years in this house. I'd have given 10 years of my life to have two days or two weeks here.” Be careful what you wish for.
[2] https://www.nytimes.com/1978/01/14/...humphrey-is-dead-at-66-after-32-years-of.html
[3] http://www2.mnhs.org/library/findaids/00442/pdfa/00442-04154.pdf
[2] https://www.nytimes.com/1978/01/14/...humphrey-is-dead-at-66-after-32-years-of.html
[3] http://www2.mnhs.org/library/findaids/00442/pdfa/00442-04154.pdf
Some do, but it's not a universal belief. There's some who believe his death had nothing to do with Fermi and it was bad genes or bad lifestyle choices or just bad luck. There are also some conspiracy theories surrounding Humphrey's death, like poisoning.
Maybe around 1970 during the FLQ crisis. But I'm wrapping up this TL soon.
Feb. 6, 1969
February 6, 1969
State funeral held for President Humphrey
In Washington, DC, the nation said a final farewell to a President. At the Capitol, the mourners slowly mounted the front steps as an honor guard carried President Humphrey’s flag‐draped coffin. Many people remembered Mr. Humphrey's vibrant wit and good humor, and could not help but smile as they traded stories and memories. Many prominent dignitaries on both sides of the aisle paid their respects, including Former President Lyndon Johnson and Michigan Governor George Romney, the man who was narrowly defeated by Mr. Humphrey in their contest for the Presidency last year.
President Muskie gave the eulogy for Mr. Humphrey:
“Hubert is probably thinking of the speech he might give if the Almighty permitted him to come back for a few minutes,” said Muskie, as he paused inside the Capitol rotunda. “And he wouldn't be taking this somberly. That voice of his was made for good cheer. It couldn't fit a sad speech. Even last week, when his voice was cracking and weak, he said he was feeling better. I thought he might even lick this thing yet.” Mr. Muskie paused and added: “Sometimes he was more generous to his enemies than his friends. He was the epitome of the civilized man.”
After a short private service, a delegation of senators, led by Majority Leader, Senator Mike Mansfield, Democrat of Montana, and Majority Leader Senator Everett Dirksen, Republican of Illinois, paid their respects. At about 1 P.M., the public was allowed in and thousands of citizens, bundled up against the cold, filed slowly past the coffin. By early evening, the line of mourners was lengthening, although it still took no more than 10 minutes of waiting outside on the Capitol steps and walking through the Rotunda for them to pay their respects.
Mr. Humphrey's body will lie in state until 11:00 tomorrow morning, when his body will be returned to his hometown in Minnesota aboard Air Force One. According to a White House spokesman, only Mr. Humphrey's family will accompany his body on the flight. Following a private ceremony open only to family members, the President will be buried at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis. [1]
State funeral held for President Humphrey
In Washington, DC, the nation said a final farewell to a President. At the Capitol, the mourners slowly mounted the front steps as an honor guard carried President Humphrey’s flag‐draped coffin. Many people remembered Mr. Humphrey's vibrant wit and good humor, and could not help but smile as they traded stories and memories. Many prominent dignitaries on both sides of the aisle paid their respects, including Former President Lyndon Johnson and Michigan Governor George Romney, the man who was narrowly defeated by Mr. Humphrey in their contest for the Presidency last year.
President Muskie gave the eulogy for Mr. Humphrey:
“Hubert is probably thinking of the speech he might give if the Almighty permitted him to come back for a few minutes,” said Muskie, as he paused inside the Capitol rotunda. “And he wouldn't be taking this somberly. That voice of his was made for good cheer. It couldn't fit a sad speech. Even last week, when his voice was cracking and weak, he said he was feeling better. I thought he might even lick this thing yet.” Mr. Muskie paused and added: “Sometimes he was more generous to his enemies than his friends. He was the epitome of the civilized man.”
After a short private service, a delegation of senators, led by Majority Leader, Senator Mike Mansfield, Democrat of Montana, and Majority Leader Senator Everett Dirksen, Republican of Illinois, paid their respects. At about 1 P.M., the public was allowed in and thousands of citizens, bundled up against the cold, filed slowly past the coffin. By early evening, the line of mourners was lengthening, although it still took no more than 10 minutes of waiting outside on the Capitol steps and walking through the Rotunda for them to pay their respects.
Mr. Humphrey's body will lie in state until 11:00 tomorrow morning, when his body will be returned to his hometown in Minnesota aboard Air Force One. According to a White House spokesman, only Mr. Humphrey's family will accompany his body on the flight. Following a private ceremony open only to family members, the President will be buried at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis. [1]
[1] As OTL, with a few minor details changed: https://www.nytimes.com/1978/01/15/...tate-in-capitol-carter-leads-tributes-as.html
Feb. 9, 1969
February 9, 1969
Muskie calls environment a “top priority”
President Muskie laid out an ambitious and extensive plan to tackle environmental pollution. While some have questioned his mandate, Muskie believes that bold action is needed, calling for “an Environmental Revolution.” Muskie explained that the environmental revolution “must be one of laws, not men; one of values, not ideology; and one of achievement, not unfulfilled promises.” [1]
Muskie has an impressive record on behalf of the environment. Muskie’s devotion to the cause has earned him the nickname "Mr. Clean."[2] In the Senate, Muskie was the chairman of the Subcommittee on Air and Water Pollution, where he championed environmental legislation such as the 1963 Clean Air Act and the 1965 Water Quality Act. [3]
Muskie envisions the creation of a Department of Conservation, which he had proposed as governor of Maine in 1954. [4] This new department would "have jurisdiction of forestry, inland fish and game, sea and shore fisheries, mineral, water, and other natural resources" while also "administering an anti-pollution program." [4] This new department would be dedicated to environmental protection, and would bring the Atomic Energy Commission into the fold.
Muskie calls environment a “top priority”
President Muskie laid out an ambitious and extensive plan to tackle environmental pollution. While some have questioned his mandate, Muskie believes that bold action is needed, calling for “an Environmental Revolution.” Muskie explained that the environmental revolution “must be one of laws, not men; one of values, not ideology; and one of achievement, not unfulfilled promises.” [1]
Muskie has an impressive record on behalf of the environment. Muskie’s devotion to the cause has earned him the nickname "Mr. Clean."[2] In the Senate, Muskie was the chairman of the Subcommittee on Air and Water Pollution, where he championed environmental legislation such as the 1963 Clean Air Act and the 1965 Water Quality Act. [3]
Muskie envisions the creation of a Department of Conservation, which he had proposed as governor of Maine in 1954. [4] This new department would "have jurisdiction of forestry, inland fish and game, sea and shore fisheries, mineral, water, and other natural resources" while also "administering an anti-pollution program." [4] This new department would be dedicated to environmental protection, and would bring the Atomic Energy Commission into the fold.
[1] https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/the-earth-day-pioneer-nobody-remembers/
[2] https://www.bates.edu/150-years/bates-greats/edmund-s-muskie/
[3] https://www.justice.gov/enrd/edmund-s-muskie-1914-1996
[4] I think of it as being sort of like the EPA mixed with the Departments of Energy and Interior: https://scholar.valpo.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1141&context=law_fac_pubs
[2] https://www.bates.edu/150-years/bates-greats/edmund-s-muskie/
[3] https://www.justice.gov/enrd/edmund-s-muskie-1914-1996
[4] I think of it as being sort of like the EPA mixed with the Departments of Energy and Interior: https://scholar.valpo.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1141&context=law_fac_pubs
Just caught up on this timeline, I like how much detail you've put into it! It's a shame to hear you're planning on wrapping it up, but I'm happy I can at least catch the end.
Thanks! I'm probably going to continue on through about 1970 or so, with a few sporadic updates after that. I'd like to do more, but I've got a new TL in the works over in Chat that I want to put more energy into.
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Feb. 15, 1969
February 15, 1969
Muskie discusses his Vietnam policy
The time has come for a fresh approach in Vietnam, said President Muskie in a speech yesterday. With peace talks stalling, he believes that a ceasefire in Vietnam is needed in order to bring the North Vietnamese to the bargaining table. “It would involve some risks, of course, but if we are ever going to end the war, we will have to take risks…A ceasefire would put the monkey on the backs of the Communists and might prod them to move forward in the Paris talks.” Secretary of Defense Clark Clifford agreed with the President, calling for a pullout of 100,000 men. “There is no way to achieve our goal of creating the conditions that will allow the South Vietnamese to determine their own future unless we… turn over to them the major responsibility for their own defense.” [1]
Muskie outlined three major objectives in Vietnam: end the fighting, support a political settlement, and re-examine U.S. interests in Southeast Asia. “We are arrogant and mistaken if we believe that we of the Western world are the sole possessors of the yearnings which motivated our own revolution," said Muskie. It is not our national responsibility or duty to stifle or prevent these yearnings elsewhere.” [2]
While Muskie’s controversial Vietnam stance appeals to the anti-war crowd, he has been criticized by many in both parties, who fear that de-escalation will mean defeat for our allies in South Vietnam and more dangerous conditions for our troops. Muskie, however, denied that this is the case, cautioning that the U.S. must fulfill its responsibilities to both its allies and its soldiers. “We are going to end this war and we are going to end it in a way that I think most Americans can accept. But we cannot end in such a way as to create greater risks to those of our boys who are fighting in Vietnam and we cannot afford to end it by running out on our responsibility.” [3]
Muskie discusses his Vietnam policy
The time has come for a fresh approach in Vietnam, said President Muskie in a speech yesterday. With peace talks stalling, he believes that a ceasefire in Vietnam is needed in order to bring the North Vietnamese to the bargaining table. “It would involve some risks, of course, but if we are ever going to end the war, we will have to take risks…A ceasefire would put the monkey on the backs of the Communists and might prod them to move forward in the Paris talks.” Secretary of Defense Clark Clifford agreed with the President, calling for a pullout of 100,000 men. “There is no way to achieve our goal of creating the conditions that will allow the South Vietnamese to determine their own future unless we… turn over to them the major responsibility for their own defense.” [1]
Muskie outlined three major objectives in Vietnam: end the fighting, support a political settlement, and re-examine U.S. interests in Southeast Asia. “We are arrogant and mistaken if we believe that we of the Western world are the sole possessors of the yearnings which motivated our own revolution," said Muskie. It is not our national responsibility or duty to stifle or prevent these yearnings elsewhere.” [2]
While Muskie’s controversial Vietnam stance appeals to the anti-war crowd, he has been criticized by many in both parties, who fear that de-escalation will mean defeat for our allies in South Vietnam and more dangerous conditions for our troops. Muskie, however, denied that this is the case, cautioning that the U.S. must fulfill its responsibilities to both its allies and its soldiers. “We are going to end this war and we are going to end it in a way that I think most Americans can accept. But we cannot end in such a way as to create greater risks to those of our boys who are fighting in Vietnam and we cannot afford to end it by running out on our responsibility.” [3]
[1] As OTL. Whether Muskie would actually implement a ceasefire if he had been President or was just posturing against Nixon, is left as an exercise to the reader. “Cease-Fire Proposed By Muskie”, Ann Arbor News, Jun. 19, 1969
[2] https://www.bates.edu/150-years/months/october/muskie-36-speaks-bates-moratorium/
[3] Campaign Crossroads: Presidential Politics in Indiana from Lincoln to Obama, p. 389
[2] https://www.bates.edu/150-years/months/october/muskie-36-speaks-bates-moratorium/
[3] Campaign Crossroads: Presidential Politics in Indiana from Lincoln to Obama, p. 389
Mar. 22, 1969
March 22, 1969
Muskie nominates George Wallace as Vice President
Speaking from the White House East Room, President Muskie today nominated former Alabama Governor George Wallace to be Vice President of the United States. [1] Both men were present at a visibly awkward press conference at the White House. Under the 25th amendment, the President must nominate a Vice President when there is a vacancy, which in this case occurred when Muskie became President upon the death of Hubert Humphrey. While the differences between Muskie and Wallace make Lemmon and Matthau look like identical twins, [2] Muskie’s choice is strategic. According to Muskie, Wallace’s nomination is an attempt to unite and heal the deep divisions in the Democratic Party. Wallace, meanwhile, read from a prepared speech apologizing for his prior support of segregation, and asked forgiveness from Black Americans. [3]
The choice of Wallace has outraged many in the Black community, who object to the idea of an avowed segregationist as Vice President. Several protests are being planned to block Wallace’s nomination. Some fear that Wallace will seriously damage Muskie’s relationship with liberal Democrats and civil rights leaders. [4]
Muskie nominates George Wallace as Vice President
Speaking from the White House East Room, President Muskie today nominated former Alabama Governor George Wallace to be Vice President of the United States. [1] Both men were present at a visibly awkward press conference at the White House. Under the 25th amendment, the President must nominate a Vice President when there is a vacancy, which in this case occurred when Muskie became President upon the death of Hubert Humphrey. While the differences between Muskie and Wallace make Lemmon and Matthau look like identical twins, [2] Muskie’s choice is strategic. According to Muskie, Wallace’s nomination is an attempt to unite and heal the deep divisions in the Democratic Party. Wallace, meanwhile, read from a prepared speech apologizing for his prior support of segregation, and asked forgiveness from Black Americans. [3]
The choice of Wallace has outraged many in the Black community, who object to the idea of an avowed segregationist as Vice President. Several protests are being planned to block Wallace’s nomination. Some fear that Wallace will seriously damage Muskie’s relationship with liberal Democrats and civil rights leaders. [4]
[1] Some of you might think that the choice of Wallace seems farfetched, but remember that this is 1969, not 2020. The Southern wing of the Democratic Party was still very powerful at that time. Knowing Humphrey’s death was imminent, it’s plausible that Wallace and his Dixiecrat allies would agree to support Humphrey in January of 1969 in exchange for the Vice Presidency, which would be vacant right after Muskie ascended to the presidency.
[2] Ask your (grand)parents: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Odd_Couple_(film)
[3] Based on his real-life apology, albeit ten years later. Whether Wallace was actually sincere is a matter of debate, but I would expect that this sort of deal would require him to publicly renounce his pro-segregation stance. https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/daily/sept98/wallace031795.htm
[4] Similar issues surfaced during Muskie’s OTL Presidential run. I found an article in Jet magazine from 1972 suggesting that Muskie was avoiding the Black community during his 1972 campaign. Also, in OTL, Muskie opposed the idea of having a Black running mate, for fear that such a ticket would not be “electable”: https://www.nytimes.com/1971/09/09/archives/muskie-rules-out-a-black-running-mate.html
[2] Ask your (grand)parents: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Odd_Couple_(film)
[3] Based on his real-life apology, albeit ten years later. Whether Wallace was actually sincere is a matter of debate, but I would expect that this sort of deal would require him to publicly renounce his pro-segregation stance. https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/daily/sept98/wallace031795.htm
[4] Similar issues surfaced during Muskie’s OTL Presidential run. I found an article in Jet magazine from 1972 suggesting that Muskie was avoiding the Black community during his 1972 campaign. Also, in OTL, Muskie opposed the idea of having a Black running mate, for fear that such a ticket would not be “electable”: https://www.nytimes.com/1971/09/09/archives/muskie-rules-out-a-black-running-mate.html