Oral History Interview with Reubin Askew, July 8, 1974. Interview A-0045. Southern Oral History Program Collection (#4007).
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Abstract
Reubin Askew, governor of Florida at the time of this interview, describes his approach to politics and comments on the political character of Florida and the American South. Askew was running for reelection at the time of this interview (a race he later won), and he uses it to celebrate his agenda, pointing to his successes in office and burnishing his image as a straight shooter. While he denies an interest in national politics, he sees the South, strengthened by economic growth, and southern politicians playing an increasingly important role in the United States.
Excerpts
Reapportionment changes Florida's political landscape
Askew reviews some of his successes as governor
The challenge of Florida's growth and the need for management
Striking out positions on principle rather than expediency
Florida is certainly a southern state
Race and religion as political issues
Southern states will face their race problems before northern states
Florida's sunshine law boosts confidence in government
Role of faith in politics
Making decisions as a politician
Political tenor of the South is changing
The South is becoming a significant factor in American political landscape
Television has revolutionized politics
Decline of regional southern character
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Subjects
Bumpers, Dale, 1925-
School integration--Arkansas
Florida--Politics and government
Florida--Race relations
Democratic Party (Fla.)
Press and politics--Florida
Trade-unions--Florida
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Documenting the American South undergo an editorial process to remove
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