Uncovering the Unlikely Partnership: FDR's First Vice President

Franklin D. Roosevelt, one of the most iconic leaders in American history, took office during a tumultuous period in the country's economic and social landscape. As the 32nd President of the United States, FDR implemented a series of reforms known as the New Deal, which aimed to alleviate the suffering of the Great Depression and rebuild the nation. However, behind the scenes, FDR was facing a major challenge in finding a suitable vice president to support his administration. In this article, we will delve into the history of FDR's vice presidency, exploring the key events, individuals, and circumstances that shaped his partnership with Harry S. Truman.

FDR's Early Years and the Need for a Vice President

Franklin D. Roosevelt was first elected to the presidency in 1932, at the height of the Great Depression. The previous president, Herbert Hoover, had struggled to address the crisis, and FDR's campaign had promised relief and reform. Upon taking office, FDR was determined to make a lasting impact on the country, and he began to assemble a team of advisors and cabinet members who shared his vision for the New Deal.

As FDR settled into the White House, he quickly realized that having a vice president was essential for the smooth functioning of the administration. A vice president could provide backup support, help with decision-making, and even assume the presidency in case of FDR's incapacitation. However, FDR was not eager to share the spotlight with a rival, and he was hesitant to appoint a vice president who might challenge his authority.

Key Factors in FDR's Vice Presidential Selection

Several factors contributed to FDR's decision-making process when it came to selecting a vice president. Some of the key considerations included:

• The need for a strong advocate for the New Deal: FDR wanted a vice president who shared his commitment to the New Deal and could help promote its policies.
• The importance of party loyalty: FDR was deeply loyal to his party, the Democratic Party, and he wanted a vice president who would support the party's interests.
• The consideration of regional balance: FDR wanted a vice president from a different region of the country to balance the power and influence of the northeastern states.
• The assessment of individual skills and experience: FDR was looking for a vice president who possessed strong leadership skills, administrative experience, and a deep understanding of policy.

FDR's Initial Vice Presidential Selection: John Nance Garner

FDR's first vice presidential selection was John Nance Garner, a former congressman from Texas. Garner was a longtime Democratic leader and a supporter of the New Deal, but he was also a bit of a traditionalist, and his conservative views often put him at odds with FDR's more liberal policies.

The Initial Partnership

FDR and Garner were paired as vice president in 1932, and they formed a strong partnership during the early years of the Roosevelt administration. Garner was a skilled politician and a master of the House of Representatives, and he played a key role in shaping FDR's legislative agenda.

Early Accomplishments

During their time in office, FDR and Garner accomplished several notable achievements, including:

• The creation of the National Recovery Administration (NRA), which aimed to regulate industry and promote fair competition.
• The passage of the Glass-Steagall Act, which separated commercial and investment banking.
• The establishment of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), which insured bank deposits.

The Decline of the FDR-Garner Partnership

However, the partnership between FDR and Garner began to deteriorate over time. Garner grew increasingly frustrated with FDR's refusal to involve him in policy-making, and he became a vocal critic of the president's more progressive policies.

The Rise of Harry S. Truman

In 1944, FDR chose to run for an unprecedented fourth term, and he selected Harry S. Truman, a relatively unknown senator from Missouri, as his running mate. Truman was a supporter of the New Deal, but he was also a pragmatist who was willing to work with Republicans to achieve common goals.

Truman's Impact on FDR's Vice Presidency

Truman's appointment marked the beginning of a new era in FDR's vice presidency. Truman brought a fresh perspective and a new level of energy to the role, and he played a key role in shaping FDR's post-war policy agenda.

The Aftermath of FDR's Death

When FDR died in 1945, Truman assumed the presidency, and he continued to carry out the New Deal policies that FDR had initiated. Truman's vice presidency was marked by a series of challenges, including the onset of the Cold War and the rise of communism in Eastern Europe.

The legacy of FDR's vice presidency is complex and multifaceted. The partnership between FDR and Garner was significant, but it ultimately proved to be short-lived. The appointment of Truman as FDR's vice president marked a turning point in American history, and it set the stage for the policies and priorities of the post-war era.