Lindsay Eyes Presidency After Party Switch, Defends NYC Record

Lindsay Explains Party Switch, Seeks Democratic Nomination

New York City Mayor John V. Lindsay, a former Republican, announced his candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1972, marking a significant shift in his political career. Appearing on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Lindsay defended his decision to switch parties, stating that he did not join the Democratic Party to be part of a “closed club.” He believes the party system needs reform and that the Democratic Party’s new rules in 1972 will allow more voices to be heard.

Lindsay argued that his six years as mayor of New York City have given him unique insights into the nation’s problems. He believes he can represent the “neighborhoods and communities of the country” by bringing an “operating level” perspective to Washington, rather than waiting for decisions to come from the capital.

Mayor Defends New York City’s Record Amidst Criticism

Facing questions about his stewardship of New York City, Mayor Lindsay acknowledged the city’s significant challenges but insisted he has confronted them head-on. He pointed to initiatives like decentralizing the school system, guaranteeing tuition-free college education for high school graduates, reforming the police department, and building industrial parks for job training.

Lindsay dismissed criticism from former Tammany Hall leader Edward Costikyan as politically motivated opposition. He invited critics to visit New York City to see both its problems and its progress, highlighting ongoing developments like a new convention center and passenger liner terminal, and noting that the city is building a substantial portion of the nation’s new office space.

Stance on School Busing and Education Quality

On the contentious issue of school busing, Mayor Lindsay stated it is a necessary tool for integration, especially when mandated by federal courts. However, he stressed that busing should be a temporary measure. The larger goal, he explained, is to improve the quality of all primary and secondary education nationwide.

He suggested that high-quality public education and integrated housing patterns are crucial to resolving issues surrounding busing. Lindsay also voiced opposition to President Nixon’s consideration of a constitutional amendment to limit busing, calling it a “tragedy” that would symbolically endorse inferior education for Black children.

Lindsay on Vietnam Policy and Foreign Relations

Mayor Lindsay advocated for an immediate withdrawal of U.S. troops from Vietnam, proposing a fixed date for withdrawal within weeks. He suggested accompanying this with presidential initiatives for the repatriation of prisoners of war through the United Nations and the International Red Cross.

He stated that the South Vietnamese government is not worth another drop of American blood or further escalation of bombing. Lindsay believes that if the U.S. withdraws, the Vietnamese people will resolve their own destiny, citing their history of expelling foreign powers.

Critique of Nixon’s Foreign Policy Approach

Lindsay criticized President Nixon’s approach to foreign policy, particularly the handling of the opening to China. He argued that the visit was not adequately coordinated with allies like Japan and the NATO alliance, causing uncertainty and potentially damaging relationships.

He believes that international affairs require consultation and that surprise is not a sound strategy. Lindsay recalled his own experience as mayor, where careful consultation is key to managing delicate relationships, and noted Nixon’s past rhetoric against China’s admission to the UN.

Views on Campaign Finance and Tax Reform

The Mayor expressed support for public disclosure of all campaign contributions, aligning with actions taken by Senators McGovern and McCloskey. He noted that while many of his supporters remain Republicans, significant contributions have come from a large New York City gala and from two prominent Republicans, J. Irwin Miller and Arthur Houghton.

Regarding tax reform, Lindsay called for adjustments to the capital gains tax, suggesting a reduction to make the tax system fairer for average workers. He opposed the value-added tax, describing it as a regressive sales tax that shifts the tax burden from progressive income taxes to sales and property taxes, exacerbating local tax burdens.

Federal and State Aid to New York City

Mayor Lindsay disputed figures suggesting New York City receives adequate aid from federal and state governments. He contended that New York City taxpayers send significantly more money to Washington than they receive back in federal support for public services.

He highlighted that New York City’s $9 billion budget is largely funded locally, and that cities nationwide are burdened with the costs of modern societal problems, including poverty programs, with insufficient support from other levels of government. Lindsay stated that all cities are being “shortchanged.”

Looking Ahead: Lindsay’s Presidential Bid

Mayor Lindsay’s campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination positions him as an outsider challenging established party figures. His willingness to switch parties and his direct approach to addressing urban issues and foreign policy indicate a campaign focused on shaking up the political system.

The coming months will reveal whether Lindsay’s message resonates with Democratic voters and if his unique background as a big-city mayor can translate into national appeal. His performance in upcoming primaries and his ability to articulate a vision for the country will be key to his success.

Source: NYC Mayor John Lindsay on his party switch and presidential run: Meet the Press Archive (YouTube)