University of Virginia Library

State Democrats Consider Plan
For Gubernatorial Endorsement

By LIBBY WITHERS

Virginia Democratic leaders
are studying a compromise
solution, suggested by state
party chairman Joseph T.
Fitzpatrick, to the question of
whether the Democratic State
Central Committee should
nominate or endorse a
gubernatorial candidate.

Mr. Fitzpatrick said he asked
the state steering committee
members to consider making a
two-point recommendation to
the 162 member central
committee when it meets in
Richmond on June 10.

The first point, he said, is
for the central committee itself
not to endorse or nominate
anyone for governor in view of
the sence e of avowed
candidates seeking the
Democratic nomination.

Second Point

The second point would
empower each of the 10
congressional districts'
Democratic committee to
endorse a gubernatorial
candidate, excepting
candidates nominated or
endorsed by another political
party.

Mr. Fitzpatrick's compromise
would officially sanction a
form of local-option,
freedom-of-choice approach to
permit supporters of Lt. Gov.
Henry E. Howell to endorse
him in the districts where they
dominate   the district
committees.

Technically, it would enable
a district committee to endorse
former Gov. Mills. E. Godwin,
Jr. if he runs as an independent
without Republican
nomination or endorsement.

Minority Opposition

An undetermined number of
Democratic central committee
members, but apparently a
minority, oppose the
endorsement or nomination of
Mr. Howell.