Smith suggested to Raskob that he build a large skyscraper because he was rich.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alfred E. Smith and John J. Raskob were the two major persons behind the construction of the Empire State Building. Moreover, they were close friends.
John served as the vice president in General Motors and he left his job in 1928. Because he wanted to help Alfred, who ran for election at that time. Since Alfred defeated in the election they both sought jobs.
At the time, Alfred realized that New York needed more offices and more skyscrapers were being built. Also, he thought that building the tallest skyscraper ever will make big news and a huge amount of free advertising will be received.
John might have left his job, yet he was so rich to finance for the skyscraper's construction. Thus Alfred suggested John build a large skyscraper.