The Augusta Courier

Take Highway Patrol Out Of Politics Says Talmadge

GRATIS, GA., July 21.-The State Highway Patrol should be taken out of politics and job security of those serving faithfully in that organization should be protected against political interference according to Herman Talmadge, candidate for Governor, in a speech delivered before voters of Walton and surrounding counties here this afternoon.

"For far too long this department has been a political football. Even now it is being used flagrantly for political purposes. Last year we witnessed the discharge of 25 Veterans of World War II in this department, the only reason being that other people friendly to the present administration wanted their jobs."

Talmadge said these veterans were discharged for political reasons and without cause.

"Thompson arbitrarily . . . and without cause fired 58 of the State Patrol, all of whom had seen many years of service in that organization in law enforcement and safety work. And twenty-five of those dismissed had served in the armed forces in World War II. Many had served in the patrol since its establishment. Thompson has tried to evade this charge but he can't do it. The actual facts are on the records."

"It shall be my purpose, if elected governor, to establish a sound program for the Highway Patrol, where security of a job will be protected and those who are doing good work cannot be discharged at the whims or caprices of any governor," he said.

Talmadge also spoke strongly against the anti-segregation laws, the proposed FEPC legislation, reiterated his support of state's rights, denounced bloc voting and defended the county unit system.

The candidate outlined his platform calling for benefits to farmers, improved educational system, better pay for teachers, old-age assistance for all those entitled to it; creation of a Constitutional State Highway Board, benefits for Veterans, more hospitals in rural sections, more industries for Georgia and improvement of rural roads.