Statement by Former President Harry S. Truman at a Press Conference

Statement made comprence, by HSTat Chicago, Press sel. August 11, 1956 I have always believed in free and open political conven- tions, and I hope the delegates of this convention will have the fullest opportunity to expresa their free choice without undue haste. I have little faith in the value of the bandwegon operation or the reliability of political polls. I Imow that each delegate will exercise freely and indepen- dently the right of choice which is his under the lew. Pollowing the election of 1952, we all hoped that by the time the 1956 convention came a round there would be developed . number of Demécratic national leaders for onsideration at this convention xx. Today I am happy to see that this ntion has many qualified men to choose from - each of whom would make a good Prosident, I have at all times encouraged worthy cendi- dates to enter the rade and campaign vigorously, and I did so without in any way seeking to influence the politionl fortunes of any one man. I knew all along that eventually I would have to express my own choice. In making up my mind I have talked to many people in many parts of the country and in all walks of life. I have received and rend thousands of letters from my fellow ditizens. Since my arrival in chiemgo a atendy procession of delegaten, cendi- dates, public officials, political lenders, and re proventatives of workers, business and various minorities have celled on - to express their views as to who would make the strongest condidate. And nor I have made up my mind. I realize that my expression of a choice at this time will cause disappointment in nome and may cause resentment in others. But against the mounting crises in the world, I know that this convention must neme a man who has the experience and the ability to act as President immediately upon assuming office without risking a period of costly and dangerous trial and errore In the light of my knowledge of the office of President, I believe that the man best qualified to be the next President of the United States is Governor Harriman of New York. He will make a fighting and successful candidate beasuse he is dedicated to the principles of our party - the New Deal and the Fair Deal. I know there are several other men who could wage successful