From the Annals of South Texas –  In 1917, John Connally was born in Floresville.  Like so many other prominent politicos, Connally’s start in politics began with LBJ – who persuaded him to serve as a key aide. Connally had close ties with Johnson before his navy days and maintained them until LBJ’s death in 1973.  As an attorney, Connally secured two key clients – Sid Richardson and Perry Bass.  Connally likely made his fortune when he was appointed as co-executor of Richardson’s estate.  Connally served a short term as Secretary of the Navy under John F. Kennedy (at LBJ’s insistence).  He left that post in December of 1961 to run for Governor of Texas.  He was elected in 1962 and again in 1964 and 1966.  During his first race he made a point of criticizing his opponent Jack Cox for having switched from the Democratic Party to the GOP.  His time as Governor was likely the highpoint of Connally’s career.  Of course, he is most famous for having been wounded during the assassination of JFK while riding in the same car as the President.  Still a Democrat, he was picked by Richard Nixon to serve as Secretary of the Treasury.  Connally allegedly insisted that Nixon also appoint George H.W. Bush to some position – a move that likely saved Bush’s career.   Connally switched parties in 1973 and in 1979 declared himself to be a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination.  After spending $11 million during the campaign, Connally secured the support of only a single delegate.  Connally’s remaining years were devoted to business with his partner Ben Barnes.  The Barnes-Connally firm collapsed in bankruptcy and scandal amid the S&L crisis.