Eleanor Roosevelt's commercial radio broadcasts during her White House years (1933-1945) were significant for three reasons. First, she was one of the few women who performed as a news commentator during this period. Her ability to pursue such a career owed much to her position as First Lady and represented the merging of the roles of celebrity and broadcast journalist early in radio history. Second, although Mrs. Roosevelt's lucrative radio contracts posed ethical questions, her work also raised societal consciousness concerning the right of women to have careers and be well-paid for their work. This issue was especially germane to the male-dominated radio industry, which considered women inferior as on-air broadcasters. Third, as Mrs. Roosevelt's radio career developed, the content of her broadcasts became both more substantive and partisan. Ironically, Mrs. Roosevelt's sex and charitable donations limited criticism of her radio commentary. Thus she was able to carve out a successful career in commerical broadcasting, since her position somewhat insulated her from attacks. (Author/HOD)