With the Momentous Tet Offensive Just Hours Away, President Lyndon B. Johnson Thanks a Democratic National Committeewoman for Supporting His Policies on the Vietnam War and Domestically

29/01/1968. “I take your letter and statement supporting my State of the Union address as evidence of the strength America brings to challenge. Your leadership has seldom been more vital to all our hopes.”By the dawn of 1968, vocal opposition to the Vietnam War in the United States was increasing significantly, and would very soon reach a fever pitch. This would be fueled by the Tet Offensive on January 30, media coverage, and growing casualties. Public approval of President Lyndon Johnson's handling of the war plummeted, with a majority disapproving by February. Protests, led by students, veterans, and various activist groups, intensified, targeting the White House and other symbolic locations. With so much opposition, and the war no longer popular, Johnson needed all the support could get.In his 1968 State of the Union address, on January 17, just thirteen days before the Tet Offensive, Johnson focused on both domestic and foreign policy, with a strong emphasis on the Vietnam War and its impact on the nation. The speech acknowledged the ongoing conflict and the need for a peaceful resolution. Johnson mentioned exploring Hanoi's recent statements about talks, but stressed the importance of not allowing such hopes to jeopardize the lives of American soldiers. He also discussed the success of programs like Medicare and Medicaid, and advocated for initiatives to rebuild cities and increase housing construction. He stressed the goals he hoped America could achieve by the time of the bicentennial, emphasizing unity and shared national purpose.About Vietnam, Johnson stated: “A President, a Vice President, a House and Senate, and village officials have been chosen by popular, contested ballot. The enemy has been defeated in battle after battle. The number of South Vietnamese living in areas under Government protection tonight has grown by more than a million since January of last year. These are all marks of progress. Yet: The enemy continues to pour men and material across frontiers and into battle, despite his continuous heavy losses. He continues to hope that America's will to persevere can be broken. Well--he is wrong. America will persevere. Our patience and our perseverance will match our power. Aggression will never prevail.” Some of the statements he made were controversial.Annette Cusson was a Democratic National Committeewoman from Rhode Island, who wrote Johnson a letter of support for his State of the Union address and its policies. Typed letter signed, The White House, Washington, January 29, 1968, to Cusson, thanking her for her support. “I take your letter and statement supporting my State of the Union address as evidence of the strength America brings to challenge. Your leadership has seldom been more vital to all our hopes. It has never been more valued by me. I am grateful for the confidence your partnership conveys.” The Tet Offensive was just hours away.This is a significant letter articulating Johnson’s belief in the strength of the United States and his hopes for the future.