ROLE 3: Senator Wayne Morse
"And I'd have the American people remember what this resolution really is. It's a resolution which seeks to give the President of the United States the power to make war without a declaration of war."
This quote came from your speech after the passage of the Gulf of Tonkin resolution. You were only one of two senators to vote against the resolution. Things happened very quickly from the time of the crisis in the Gulf of Tonkin to the passage of the resolution, and with most of the American people expressing support for the resolution and increased military action, it was politically dangerous to go against it.
You know you're not alone, though. Look at these wires of support you have received. You're "the tiger of the Senate," and you've been known to go against the grain from time to time.
Your Tasks:
Read these short biographies on Senator Morse from the U.S. Senate and answer the following questions.
- Where was Senator Morse from?
- Why do you think he was called 'the tiger of the senate'?
- What is a filibuster?
Now read the following passages from 'The Congressional Record' which expresses your opposition to the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution. Use these passages to find the main points in your presentation arguing against the war.
- 1964 Senate Congressional Record
- 1964 Senate Congressional Record
Now prepare your press release and decide what you will say in your press conference. Even though you are known for your eloquent but long-winded speeches, you want to be very clear and make your point quickly.
What are the major points you should include in your press release to convince the other members of your group to vote for the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution? You should have at least 4 points.
You may wish to speak with the press as you prepare this document. You might even want to request a meeting with the President.