Baum, Dr Elmer C 1973-06-28

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Dr. Baum, close friend and political confidant of Preston Smith, recalls the governor's political career while summarizing his personality and character.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: Dr. Elmer C. Baum

Additional Parties Recorded:

Date: June 28, 1973

Location: Austin, Texas

Interviewer: Fred Carpenter

Length: 1 hour, 25 minutes


Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Reviews service in Texas government, Describes relationship with Preston Smith and family, Characterizes Smith's golfing, Recalls Smith's decision to run for lieutenant governor, Analyzes Smith's image and leaning capacity, Examines John Connally and Smith's first campaign for governor, Smith's determination characterized, Emphasizes Smith's receptivity to people, Sonora, Texas, turkey shoot story, Jerry Shirley mentioned, Golf described again, Notes Smith's love of outdoors, Pete Coffield mentioned, Property near Austin owned by Smith and Baum, Dam demonstrates Smith's foresight, Stresses Smith's independence, Press coverage reviewed, Ignored Smith's accomplishments, Punctuality illustrated by anecdote, State Democratic Executive Committee included local level people, Reemphasizes Smith's democratic openness, Sharpstown scandal analyzed, Third term loss tied to press and political changes

Tape 1, Side 2: Sharpstown Scandal analysis continued, House Investigating Committee role, Waggoner Carr and Frank Sharp mentioned, Allan Shivers' part included, Reemphasizes news media culpability, 1972 campaign seen as reform-oriented, Smith's accomplishments hidden by media, Reviews relationship between Smith and Ben Barnes, Barnes characterized, Smith's decision to run to third term recalled, Influence from scandal charges, Describes Smith's health and regimen , Account of his ulcer, Smith's avocations of fishing, cooking, barbecuing praised, Smith's character summarized, Impoverished childhood noted

Tape 2, Side 1: Review of campaign management during the Lt. Governor's race, Makes analysis of Smith's political career, Discussion of poor relationship with the press, Accomplishments of the Smith administration listed, Auto insurance failure cited, Examines Smith's decision to run for governor, Smith characterized, Baum's political appointments noted, Explores function of State Democratic Committee

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