Vanderbilt Television News Archive

(Studio) Last night, Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey pledges to end North Vietnam bombing but attaches condition. Some supporters say his stand differs from President Johnson. North Vietnam spokesperson says remark nothing new.
REPORTER: Chet Huntley

(No Location Given) [HUMPHREY - says would stop bombing of North Vietnam because it could lead to success in negotiations. Before doing so, would need evidence of Communist willingness to restore DMZ. If North Vietnam showed bad faith, would resume bombing. Would take risk that South Vietnam would assume responsibility. Would not undertake unilateral withdrawal. Cites reasons. Wouldn't escalate.]
REPORTER: No reporter given

(DC) North Vietnam spokesperson, Le Duc Tho finds nothing new in statement. Calls it same demand for reciprocity. President aides say they and President relaxed about whole thing. Senator Fred Harris and example Post Master General say Vice President may be willing to end bombing without evidence of give on other side. Humphrey accentuates positive before revealing negative; President does opposite.
REPORTER: Elie Abel

(Detroit, Michigan) [NIXON - says Vice President's statement had been interpreted as attempt to pull rug out from negotiators. He should clear up interpretation. Risk in calling halt would be to American men in Vietnam. Possible North Vietnam could view it as concession they could get in January Vice President should clear matter up.] Nixon people don't feel it'll help Vice President
REPORTER: Jack Perkins

(Sioux Falls, South Dakota) [Senator George MCGOVERN - says greatest political handicap Democrats have is unpopularity of Johnson administration Vice President helps self and others by putting distance between him and administration. Important that he demonstrate independent qualities.]
REPORTER: Sander Vanocur

(Nashville, Tennessee) Humphrey more confident.
REPORTER: Douglas Kiker

(Nashville, Tennessee) [HUMPHREY - says was introduced as candidate not Vice President. It's his policy. ]
REPORTER: Jud Collins WSM-TV

(Nashville, Tennessee) Big crowd turns out to hear Vice President Hopes his Vietnam speech will reunite Democrats, restrain anti-war demonstrators and put Nixon on spot. [HUMPHREY - asks who'll guide United States to peace. Would like to hear opposition plan.] Humphrey aides hope speech gives campaign lift it needs.
REPORTER: Douglas Kiker