Sold – Theodore Roosevelt Combats Corruption and Championing Good Government

Roosevelt began his first term in the New York Assembly on January 3, 1882, and though only 23 years old, quickly became Minority Leader. He was first recognized to speak late that month, and by March was preparing to introduce his first resolution – to investigate Judge Westbrook and Attorney General Ward for corruption related to the Manhattan Elevated Railroad. This would prove to be his first real battle for integrity in government. One of his supporters was James S. Lehmair, an influential New York City Republican leader who, in 1886, would prove instrumental in securing for TR the Republican nomination for Mayor.

Autograph Letter Signed, New York Assembly Chamber, Albany, March 6, 1882, to Lehmair, showing how he worked with his fellow legislators and had a watchful eye lest questionable bills be snuck through. “Many thanks for your kind, and I feel far too flattering remarks. I was very much pleased with your circular. I do not doubt of our ultimate success, and whatever I can do, I will. Could I not get a list of the members with their addresses??Then I will from time to time send them bills and documents, so as to keep them interested; do not hesitate to write for anything you wish that I can send you…On Monday evening, the attendance of the members of the Legislature is small, and on that account bills of a doubtful character are sometimes rushed through; so that I dislike staying down in New York for that night, unless absolutely necessary.”