Fact Check: LBJ had JFK killed.

Fact Check: "LBJ had JFK killed."

What We Know

The assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, has led to numerous conspiracy theories, including claims of involvement by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ). According to Wikipedia, various theories suggest that LBJ, along with entities like the CIA, the Mafia, and others, may have conspired to assassinate Kennedy. The Warren Commission, established by LBJ himself, concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, a finding that has been contested by many conspiracy theorists over the years.

Public opinion polls consistently show that a significant portion of the American public believes there was a conspiracy behind Kennedy's assassination. For instance, a 2003 ABC News poll indicated that 70% of respondents suspected multiple individuals were involved in the assassination, while a 2023 YouGov poll found that 54% of U.S. adults believed Oswald did not act alone (source-1).

Notably, conspiracy theorist Craig Zirbel argues that LBJ had the motive, means, and opportunity to orchestrate the assassination, suggesting that political gain was a primary motive for LBJ (source-2). Zirbel's claims, while popular among certain circles, are part of a broader narrative that includes various other potential conspirators, such as the CIA and organized crime.

Analysis

The claim that LBJ was involved in JFK's assassination is rooted in conspiracy theories that have circulated since the event occurred. While Zirbel and others present arguments supporting this theory, it is essential to critically assess the reliability of these sources. Zirbel's works, including "The Texas Connection," are self-published and reflect a specific viewpoint that may not be supported by mainstream historical scholarship (source-2).

The Warren Commission's findings, which concluded that Oswald acted alone, are often cited as a counterpoint to conspiracy theories. However, the subsequent United States House Select Committee on Assassinations (HSCA) in 1979 acknowledged flaws in the Warren Commission's report and suggested the possibility of a conspiracy, although it still affirmed that Oswald was the assassin (source-1). This duality in findings contributes to the ongoing debate about the assassination.

Moreover, the credibility of conspiracy theories often hinges on the interpretation of evidence, which can be subjective. Public interest in these theories remains high, with many books and articles published that challenge the official narrative. However, the majority of scholarly work tends to support the conclusion of the Warren Commission, indicating a lack of credible evidence linking LBJ directly to the assassination (source-1).

Conclusion

The claim that "LBJ had JFK killed" is Partially True. While there are conspiracy theories suggesting LBJ's involvement, these theories are not supported by definitive evidence. The Warren Commission and subsequent investigations have concluded that Oswald acted alone, yet the acknowledgment of potential conspiracies by the HSCA adds complexity to the narrative. Public belief in conspiracy theories remains strong, reflecting a broader skepticism towards official accounts, but this does not equate to proven involvement by LBJ.