Approved

 

8.3.

RELATI THE C

Certain rights were reserved to the states when the
Federal Constitution was adapted, and I intend to demand the
observance of each of those rights. As governor, I will throw the
full force of the State and the full dignity of the office I shall hold
behind my purpose to maintain the integrity of the law in every legal
way open to me. I will not countenance violation of our rights, and
I will not condone any inVOluntary knuckling under to an invalid
Federal encroachment.

The proposed creation of a Federal dictator to oversee
our elections is a violation of the sovereign rights of the State
of Florida.

The Federal Government's attempt to enforce integration
in our schools is an invasion of the rights of the State. As governor
of Florida it will be my duty to provide the leadership to maintain
segregation, without violence, anarchy, or the closing of schools.
and that I pledge to do to the fullest extent of my constitutional
powers .

Basically, this battle for constitutional government and
states' rights is a battle for men's minds, being fought on a world-
wide scale. I shall take pride in expressing to the rest of the
nation, with dignity and determination, the conviction of the people
of Florida on this subject.

Such a determination provides justice for everyone. we

auat not be turned aside from our goal of making the acilities for

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Negroes equal as well as separate, so that within their sphere they
toq may enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, to the Odin

w of their own abilities.