Interview with Wilson W. Wyatt, February 5, 1987

Interview Summary

Wilson Wyatt discusses the 1962 senatorial race in Kentucky between himself and Thruston Morton. After explaining his motivations and initial supporters, he explains how the looming 1963 gubernatorial election interfered with his own campaign, and he discusses why he chose to run against Morton. Wyatt then discusses at length controversies and false charges brought against him: his (and President John F. Kennedy's) support of Medicare, his support of the Civil Rights Movement, foreign affairs issues, and others. He discusses the role of Earle Clements and John Sherman Cooper in the senatorial race. Wyatt discusses the logistics of his campaign, and concludes by describing the aftermath of a close defeat to Morton.

Interview Keyword

Americans for Democratic Action Civil Rights Movement Cuban Missile Crisis Earle C. Clements Fund raising John F. Kennedy Medicare Senators Thruston B. Morton

Interview LC Subject

Elections Louisville (Ky.) Political campaigns Politicians--Kentucky United States. Congress. Senate. Wyatt, Wilson W. (Wilson Watkins), 1905-1996

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.