TLS, three pages, 8 x 10.25, State of New York letterhead, September 11, 1930. Letter to prominent lawyer and author William D. Guthrie, appointing him his representative in investigation of slander or accusations against New York judges. In part: “Where definite, supported charges of actual criminality were made against one magistrate, I directed the Attorney general of this state to prosecute the case, and superseded the local district attorney for that purpose. Since my action in these matters I have read in the press that vague rumors, anonymous accusations and whispered hints are in circulation concerning the higher courts, including the Supreme Court itself. I yield to none in abhorrence of corruption and venality in any form. Corruption in our courts in particular shakes the very foundation of our society…Public confidence and respect for law stands or falls with public confidence and respect for our courts. Unfounded rumor and scandal are deplorable in any case but if they are used unjustly to undermine confidence in our courts and our justices that constitutes treason of the most insidious kind. Anarchy in its worst form must rejoice at the efforts of mis-guided or ill-intentioned persons who publicly but anonymously by innuendo or otherwise spread unfounded rumors and unsupported hearsay about our courts and judges…I wish you would act as my representative in this matter and collect, digest and report to me on all of these rumors, accusations, suspicions, hearsay and all kinds of charges made against our courts and judges.” In fine condition.
With presidential aspirations on his mind, Roosevelt needed to clean up corruption in the court system, mainly the crooked Tammany Hall judges. In a bold speech given at Carnegie Hall, filled with the Tammany rank and file as well as his fellow Democrats, Roosevelt boldly and confidently promised, “If there is corruption in our courts, I will use every rightful power in the office of Governor to drive it out—and I will do this regardless of whether it affects, or may effect, any Democratic or Republican organization.” Roosevelt stayed true to his word, appointing the Seabury Commission and investigating various politicians, which led to the resignation of New York City Mayor Jimmy Walker. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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