Further endorsements on the candidacy of Col. Herbert H. Lehman for the Lieutenant-Governorship of New York State were made by prominent Jews and non-Jews in statements made public yesterday.
Prof. Lindsay Rogers, Professor of Public Law, Columbia University: “The eminent place which Herbert H. Lehman has made for himself in the business world shows that he is one of the ablest Americans of his time. This index of his ability, however, does not disclose a much rarer distinction that is his. Mr. Lehman is a socially-minded business man, who believes that the acquisitive instinct in modern life should be tempered by a concern for the common good, and who is always ready to make sacrifices in order to perform public service.
“Many citizens of New York are qualified to speak of Mr. Lehman’s philanthropies, of his eminence, success and reputation in his chosen profession. My association with him during the last four years, however, has enabled me to know something of the abilities which he can devote to the publice service and which are now to have a wider field of usefulness in the Lieutenant-Governorship. During recent years the people of New York have been extremely fortunate in the men they have chosen to take charge of the State administration. When on Tuesday they elect Herbert Lehman as Lieutenant-Governor, they will greatly increase their good fortune, for the qualities of mind and heart which I have tried to describe will for two years be devoted to the public welfare.”
Morgan J. O’Brien, New York City: “I have known Colonel Lehman as one of the finest types of gentleman to be found in New York City. His generous spirit, which has brought him to be generally regarded as one of the most philanthropic contributors, is just one of the many attributes that have earned for him the respect of the entire community.
“His business record as head member of the great banking firm is so conspicuous that it needs no comment from me.”
James T. Shotwell, Director, Division of Economics and History, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace: “I have known Colonel Herbert Lehman since the heart of the World War, when he was in the sevice of the United States Government and performed work of great importance at Washington. Since those days I have often come in contact with him and have learned to admire his sane and constructive judgment, his tolerant and generous outlook, and his critical and thorough-going mind. The election of Colonel Lehman as Lieutenant-Governor of New York State would bring to this office a man of rare capacity and unshaken integrity.”
Alex J. Whynman, national treasurer of Avukah and national secretary Phi Epsilon Pi: “Franklin D. Roosevelt has established a reputation in New York State as one who mixes idealism with practical sense, which has been evidenced in the corporation he has directed as well as in many civic affairs.
“Colonel Lehman is able, competent, with large vision and excellent judgment. He has an extraordinary grasp on administrative affairs, as his report on finance of the plan of the City of New York has proved. As an American citizen, I do not favor the election of any candidate because of his religion. However, I particularly appreciate Colonel Lehman’s contribution to the welfare of his people because it is in that part of his benevolent work that I have had the greatest opportunity to observe his manifold interest in all meritorious Jewish causes.”
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