LB J. DROPS CAMPAIGN

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31209, 5 November 1966, Page 15

LB J. DROPS CAMPAIGN

Health Veto

(N.Z.P.A.-Reuter— Copyright) WASHINGTON, November 4. Doctors who will operate on President Johnson in about two weeks’ time vetoed hi s plans to plunge into the Congressional election campaign this week. Mr Johnson took their advice even though the abdominal and throat operations were described as “minor.” He wanted to campaign on behalf of Democrats locked in crucial contests with opposition Republicans. He had intended to leave the White House this morning, barely more than a day after completing a 31,000mile Asian tour, to campaign in a dozen states. NEW APPEAL

Uppermost in his mind were the Vietnam war and a new appeal to the American people to rally behind him with complete unity at a time of crisis.

President Johnson was 58 in August. The President dropped a political bombshell when he disclosed yesterday that he was abandoning his campaign plans.

Political experts were busy assessing the effects of his announcement on his party’s prospects in polling on November 8. “NO PROBLEMS” The President announced that he would undergo surgery in 15 days’ time for repair of a defect at the site of an incision made during his gall bladder operation and for the removal of a polyp—a small grape-like mass of tissue—from his throat. Vice-Admiral George Burkley, his personal physician, said: “There is no indication of any serious problem in either operation, and his general health remains excellent.” The picture, received by cable, shows the President making the announcement in the White House.