Banks, Jimmy 1973-08-23
Newspaperman Jimmy Banks evaluates Governor Preston Smith’s administration, discusses Smith’s relationship with the press, expresses opinions on the Sharpstown scandal, and relates anecdotes concerning these areas.
General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: Jimmy Banks
Additional Parties Recorded:
Date: August 23, 1973
Location: Austin, Texas
Interviewer: David Murrah
Length: 50 minutes
Abstract
Tape 1, Side 1:
Background an dearly life reviewed,
Work with Austin Statesman and Dallas Morning News cited,
Association with politicians recalled,
Early recollections of Preston Smith,
Turning point in Lt. Governor's campaign related,
Notes Smith's early intention to win governor's office,
Anecdotes o Smith's uneasy relations with the press,
Comments on Smith's announcement to run for governorship,
Anecdotes concerning Smith's business interests in Lubbock area,
Discussion of Preston Smith-Ben Barnes conflict,
Gives opinions on 1968 campaign,
Inconsistent aspects of Smith,
Administration reviewed,
Opinions on banking and Sharpstown scandal expressed
Tape 1, Side 2:
Speculates on relationship between Texas scandal and Watergate,
Sharpstown scandal discussion continued,
Teacher pay raise bill mentioned,
Evaluation of leadership,
Smith's advisors and staff listed,
Smith-Barnes conflict (continued),
Appraisal of Smith's success,
Anecdotes concerning critical newspaper articles,
Comparison of senators Lloyd Bentson and John Tower,
Origin of "two-party" theme mentioned,
Friendship with Senator John Tower noted
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Access Information
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Recording Format Notes:
Transcript:
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