Title: February 8, 1956 Typed Letter Signed by Lyndon B. Johnson on Natural Gas Deregulation Bill – JSA Certified

Description:
Offered here is an original Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by Lyndon B. Johnson, composed on official United States Senate, Office of the Democratic Leader stationery during his tenure as Senate Majority Leader. Dated February 8, 1956, the letter measures 6" x 7" and is addressed to Mr. J.C. Groff of Allentown, Pennsylvania. Typed in blue ink and signed boldly in fountain pen by Johnson, the letter references the Senate’s recent 53–38 vote in favor of a key piece of legislation—the Harris-Fulbright Natural Gas Bill, which aimed to deregulate natural gas prices at the wellhead.

Full Transcription:

United States Senate
Office of the Democratic Leader
Washington, D.C.
February 8, 1956

Dear Mr. Groff:

Thank you very much for your telegram. The Senate, after three weeks of debate, voted 53 to 38 in favor of the bill and I agree with you that it will best serve the interests of our country.

Sincerely,
(Signed) Lyndon B. Johnson

Mr. J. C. Groff
111 North 4th Street
Allentown, Pennsylvania

Historical Context:
The legislation Johnson refers to is the Harris-Fulbright Bill (H.R. 6645)—a controversial proposal to remove federal price controls on natural gas at the producer level. Passed by the Senate on February 7, 1956, the bill was strongly supported by Johnson and energy-state senators but faced fierce opposition from consumer advocates. Although President Eisenhower would veto the bill just days later, this letter reflects Johnson’s active leadership and political maneuvering in support of the measure. The precise 53–38 vote mentioned aligns exactly with the final Senate tally.

As Senate Majority Leader, Johnson was instrumental in pushing this bill through Congress, a role that helped shape his legacy as a formidable legislative strategist during a pivotal period in American domestic policy.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
This letter is authenticated by James Spence Authentication (JSA) and is accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity, certification number ZZ36904. Johnson’s signature, written in blue ink with a steel-tip fountain pen, has been verified against known exemplars and found to be genuine.

Closing Appeal:
A compelling and content-rich letter from Lyndon B. Johnson during a defining moment in 1950s Senate politics. With direct reference to a high-profile, narrowly passed bill and preserved in fine condition with clear provenance, this letter provides an outstanding snapshot of Johnson’s political engagement and leadership. A superb addition for collectors of presidential, Senate, or energy policy history.