Washington opinion –
MacArthur puts self on ‘available’ list
Vandenberg, leading supporter, silent
Washington (UP) –
Gen. Douglas MacArthur’s statement on American political affairs was interpreted here today as indicating his availability for a draft to the Republican presidential nomination despite his decision not to press active candidacy.
Political observers counted it significant that Gen. MacArthur did not specifically eliminate himself for consideration as the GOP’s 1944 standard-bearer, although his statement could have been a vehicle for such an elimination.
With ‘availables’
The statement thus appeared to place Gen. MacArthur alongside New York Governor Thomas E. Dewey and LtCdr. Harold E. Stassen as “available” for the Republican nomination. Of the leading GOP possibilities, only Ohio Governor John W. Bricker is an announced candidate.
Gen. MacArthur’s statement was issued primarily to clear up his part in the publication of correspondence between him and Rep. A. L. Miller (R-NE), an active MacArthur-for-President supporter who released the letters last week.
Gen. MacArthur said the letters were neither intended for publication nor politically inspired, strongly implying that Mr. Miller had violated confidence by revealing them to the press.
Vandenberg silent
Senator Arthur H. Vandenberg (R-MI), a leading MacArthur supporter, declined to comment on the general’s statement.
Rep. Hamilton Fish (R-NY) said:
It bears out Gen. MacArthur’s earlier assertions that he is not a candidate for office. He might accept it if were offered to him – as anyone would.
Senator Styles Bridges (R-NH) said he thought the letters made public by Mr. Miller:
…indicated MacArthur’s availability but his statement that he is interested solely in winning the war must be taken at face value because of the magnificent and courageous job that he has done.