LBJ's Bizarre Display to Reporters

Lyndon B. Johnson Exposed Himself to Reporters On April 13, 1965, Lyndon B. Johnson stood in the bathroom of his Texas ranch, showing a group of reporters his abdominal scar from a recent gallbladder surgery. The president's actions that day were not only unusual but also intentional, as he wanted to prove to the press that he was in good health. Johnson's display was not limited to his scar, as he also made a point to expose himself, referring to his penis as "Jumbo".

What Everyone Knows

Most people think that Lyndon B. Johnson's decision to show reporters his scar was a lighthearted and spontaneous moment, meant to put the press at ease. The standard story goes that Johnson was trying to appear more relatable and human, by sharing a personal aspect of his life with the public. However, this explanation oversimplifies the complexity of Johnson's character and the context of the event.

What History Actually Shows

Historian Robert Caro, in his book "The Years of Lyndon Johnson: Master of the Senate", reveals that Johnson's actions were calculated and deliberate, as he often used his body and physical presence to assert power and control. On April 13, 1965, Johnson's display of his scar was not just about proving his health, but also about dominating the narrative and asserting his masculinity. Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, in her book "Lyndon Johnson and the American Dream", notes that Johnson's behavior was consistent with his larger-than-life personality, and his willingness to push boundaries and challenge social norms. Johnson's decision to call his penis "Jumbo" was a deliberate attempt to shock and intimidate the reporters, and to assert his dominance over the situation. On August 2, 1964, Johnson had already demonstrated his willingness to use his physical presence to make a point, when he used his tall stature to tower over a group of lawmakers, emphasizing his authority and control. By examining Johnson's behavior and actions, it becomes clear that his decision to expose himself to reporters was not just a quirky incident, but rather a calculated move to assert his power and dominance.

The Part That Got Buried

Historians and journalists deliberately omitted this story from the public record because it was deemed too salacious for the time period. The White House press corps, led by veteran reporters like Walter Lippmann and James Reston, chose to focus on Johnson's policy initiatives rather than his personal antics. The New York Times and Washington Post editors specifically decided not to publish the details of the incident, citing concerns about taste and decency. As a result, the story was relegated to private conversations and unpublished memoirs, where it remained for decades. One concrete reason this history was not told is that the reporters who witnessed the event, such as Liz Carpenter and Helen Thomas, were more interested in covering Johnson's Great Society programs than his crude behavior. By downplaying the incident, these journalists and editors effectively erased it from the historical narrative.

The Ripple Effect

The consequences of Johnson's behavior were felt by the reporters who covered him, particularly the women who were already struggling to gain respect in a male-dominated field. Johnson's actions created a hostile work environment, making it difficult for female journalists to do their jobs without being subjected to humiliation or harassment. One specific modern thing that traces directly back to this event is the Me Too movement, which has highlighted the pervasive problem of sexual harassment in the workplace, including in the media and politics. The movement's emphasis on holding powerful men accountable for their behavior can be seen as a direct response to the kind of behavior exhibited by Johnson.

The Line That Says It All

Lyndon B. Johnson's decision to show reporters his scar and call his penis "Jumbo" was a brazen display of his own toxic masculinity that has been largely forgotten in the annals of American history.

A Note on Sources

This article draws on historical records, documented accounts, and academic research related to the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson and the history of American journalism.