Enclosed with this response to Roosevelt's telegram , Ryan sent an autographed copy of the speech to the president with his compliments. Ryan regarded the speech with "great satisfaction", not only for the role in played in Roosevelt's landslide victory, but for its influence in forcing Coughlin to retire from the radio.

Question:

As you read the document, reflect on the following question:

• Ryan clearly believed he did the right thing in delivering the broadcast under the auspices of the Democratic National Committee. Do you think his explanation that he was conducting the broadcast as an American citizen and not as a representative of Catholic institutions is convincing? Why or why not?