Lyndon Johnson on Satire: “The Price of Leadership” and the Gift of Laughter
A Presidential Apology Letter Turned Tribute to Humor and Democracy
In the politically charged atmosphere of the late 1960s, satire was a powerful tool for social commentary and criticism of leadership. The Smothers Brothers, musical comedians known for their bold satire on their television show, often targeted President Lyndon B. Johnson’s administration with their humor. When the brothers sent a letter apologizing to President Johnson for their satirical jabs, his response became a notable example of presidential humility and grace.
In a letter dated November 9, 1968, President Johnson replied:
“It is part of the price of leadership of this great and free nation to be the target of clever satirists. You have given the gift of laughter to our people. May we never grow so somber or self-important that we fail to appreciate the humor in our lives.”
President Lyndon B. Johnson, March 10, 1964/Source: Arnold Newman
This response underlines several key attitudes of Johnson’s leadership—an acceptance of satire as an inevitable and even valuable aspect of democracy, gratitude for those who provide the gift of laughter even through criticism, and a caution against becoming overly serious or self-important.
The relationship between Johnson’s administration and the Smothers Brothers was complex. Early on, presidential satire led to tensions, with Johnson even reportedly calling CBS chairman William Paley to complain about a skit. However, over time, the tone became more measured. On the Smothers Brothers’ final show in April 1969, after Johnson had left office, the brothers read his letter aloud—a powerful testament to his mature and open stance toward political satire.
The letter has been confirmed as authentic and discussed in various reputable sources, including NPR’s “Fresh Air,” retrospectives on the Smothers Brothers’ impact on television satire, and archives of Johnson’s correspondence [NPR/Fresh Air], [Johnson Letter Archive]. Further reflections on this exchange emphasize the importance of humor as a check on power and a way to maintain perspective for those who lead [LinkedIn].
Johnson’s gracious stance contrasts with contemporary responses by some leaders who have reacted defensively or hostilely to satire, making his words resonate as a timeless lesson in leadership and the role of comedy in public discourse.
