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This file contains:
Notes on Phone Conversation with Don Pierson- Humboldt, Iowa. 4 pages. [Memo], 11/17/1958
Notes on Elmo Roper Talk at J. Walter Thompson Luncheon Meeting on November 25, 1958. 2 pages. Duplicate not scanned. [Memo], 1/20/1959
Notes on Phone Conversation with Charles Halleck - Rensselaer, Indiana. [Memo], 11/10/1958
Human Events. "The Challenge to Conservatives". By Raymond Moley and Raymond Moley Jr. [Newsletter], 3/18/1959
The Case of the Missing 8 Million Republicans. For US News & World Report. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 3/16/1959
Practical Politics in the Bay Area. By J. Anthony Lukas for The Reporter. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 12/11/1958
GOP Chiefs, Full of Fight, Attack Campaign Problems, Bolster Nationwide Organization. Unknown author for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Picking The Candidates. By James Reston for the New York Times. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Eisenhower Gets Alcorn Party Plan. By Don Irwin for unknown newspaper. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
The Image of a Party. Unknown author for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 1/15/1959
GOP Strategy: Secret Memo Blueprints Plan to Rebuild Party, Win Election in 1960. By Albert Clark and Lester Tanzer for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Limit On Presidency Ike's Advantage. By George E. Sokolsky for unknown newspaper. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Eisenhower Record Called Key to Election in 1960. By David Lawrence for the New York Herald Tribune. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Some Politicos Ponder the Problems of Reviving a Viewpoint. By Josephy E. Evams for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 11/26/1958
Los Angeles GOP Recruits for Future. By Kimmis Hendrick for The Christian Science Monitor. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 11/28/1959
The Taft Memorandum. By WH Lawrence for the New York Times. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Text of Taft's Analysis of GOP Contest in 1952. Unknown author for the New York Times. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 11/25/1959
Politics Pursues Governor On Trip. Unknown newspaper for the New York Times. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 8/23/1959
Rockefeller Group Hums in California. By Kimmis Hendrick for the Christian Science Monitor. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
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WHSF: Returned, 69-6
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1
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26128265
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WHSF: Returned, 69-6
description
This file contains:
Notes on Phone Conversation with Don Pierson- Humboldt, Iowa. 4 pages. [Memo], 11/17/1958
Notes on Elmo Roper Talk at J. Walter Thompson Luncheon Meeting on November 25, 1958. 2 pages. Duplicate not scanned. [Memo], 1/20/1959
Notes on Phone Conversation with Charles Halleck - Rensselaer, Indiana. [Memo], 11/10/1958
Human Events. "The Challenge to Conservatives". By Raymond Moley and Raymond Moley Jr. [Newsletter], 3/18/1959
The Case of the Missing 8 Million Republicans. For US News & World Report. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 3/16/1959
Practical Politics in the Bay Area. By J. Anthony Lukas for The Reporter. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 12/11/1958
GOP Chiefs, Full of Fight, Attack Campaign Problems, Bolster Nationwide Organization. Unknown author for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Picking The Candidates. By James Reston for the New York Times. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Eisenhower Gets Alcorn Party Plan. By Don Irwin for unknown newspaper. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
The Image of a Party. Unknown author for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 1/15/1959
GOP Strategy: Secret Memo Blueprints Plan to Rebuild Party, Win Election in 1960. By Albert Clark and Lester Tanzer for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Limit On Presidency Ike's Advantage. By George E. Sokolsky for unknown newspaper. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Eisenhower Record Called Key to Election in 1960. By David Lawrence for the New York Herald Tribune. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Some Politicos Ponder the Problems of Reviving a Viewpoint. By Josephy E. Evams for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 11/26/1958
Los Angeles GOP Recruits for Future. By Kimmis Hendrick for The Christian Science Monitor. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 11/28/1959
The Taft Memorandum. By WH Lawrence for the New York Times. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
Text of Taft's Analysis of GOP Contest in 1952. Unknown author for the New York Times. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 11/25/1959
Politics Pursues Governor On Trip. Unknown newspaper for the New York Times. Not scanned. [Newspaper], 8/23/1959
Rockefeller Group Hums in California. By Kimmis Hendrick for the Christian Science Monitor. Not scanned. [Newspaper], n.d.
citationUrl
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Richard M. Nixon's Returned Materials Collection
Returned White House Special Files
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Richard Nixon Presidential Library
White House Special Files Collection
Folder List
Box Number
Folder Number
Document Date
Document Type
Document Description
69
6
11/17/1958
Memo
Notes on Phone Conversation with Don
Pierson- Humboldt, Iowa. 4 pages.
69
6
01/20/1959
Memo
Notes on Elmo Roper Talk at J. Walter
Thompson Luncheon Meeting on November
25, 1958. 2 pages. Duplicate not scanned.
69
6
11/10/1958
Memo
Notes on Phone Conversation with Charles
Halleck - Rensselaer, Indiana.
69
6
03/18/1959
Newsletter
Human Events. "The Challenge to
Conservatives". By Raymond Moley and
Raymond Moley Jr.
69
6
03/16/1959
Newspaper
The Case of the Missing 8 Million
Republicans. For US News & World Report.
Not scanned.
69
6
12/11/1958
Newspaper
Practical Politics in the Bay Area. By J.
Anthony Lukas for The Reporter. Not
scanned.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Page 1 of 3
Box Number Folder Number Document Date
Document Type
Document Description
69
6
n.d.
Newspaper
GOP Chiefs, Full of Fight, Attack Campaign
Problems, Bolster Nationwide Organization.
Unknown author for the Wall Street Journal.
Not scanned.
69
6
n.d.
Newspaper
Picking The Candidates. By James Reston
for the New York Times. Not scanned.
69
6
n.d.
Newspaper
Eisenhower Gets Alcorn Party Plan. By Don
Irwin for unknown newspaper. Not scanned.
69
6
01/15/1959
Newspaper
The Image of a Party. Unknown author for
the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned.
69
6
n.d.
Newspaper
GOP Strategy: Secret Memo Blueprints Plan
to Rebuild Party, Win Election in 1960. By
Albert Clark and Lester Tanzer for the Wall
Street Journal. Not scanned.
69
6
n.d.
Newspaper
Limit On Presidency Ike's Advantage. By
George E. Sokolsky for unknown newspaper.
Not scanned.
69
6
n.d.
Newspaper
Eisenhower Record Called Key to Election in
1960. By David Lawrence for the New York
Herald Tribune. Not scanned.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Page 2 of 3
Box Number Folder Number Document Date
Document Type
Document Description
69
6
11/26/1958
Newspaper
Some Politicos Ponder the Problems of
Reviving a Viewpoint. By Josephy E. Evams
for the Wall Street Journal. Not scanned.
69
6
11/28/1959
Newspaper
Los Angeles GOP Recruits for Future. By
Kimmis Hendrick for The Christian Science
Monitor. Not scanned.
69
6
n.d.
Newspaper
The Taft Memorandum. By WH Lawrence
for the New York Times. Not scanned.
69
6
11/25/1959
Newspaper
Text of Taft's Analysis of GOP Contest in
1952. Unknown author for the New York
Times. Not scanned.
69
6
08/23/1959
Newspaper
Politics Pursues Governor On Trip.
Unknown newspaper for the New York
Times. Not scanned.
69
6
n.d.
Newspaper
Rockefeller Group Hums in California. By
Kimmis Hendrick for the Christian Science
Monitor. Not scanned.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Page 3 of 3
NOTES ON PHONE CONVERSATION WITH
DON PIERSON - MUMBOLDT. IOWA
Friday, November 7, 1958
The major problem resulting in the election losses was the
fact that the state party organisation wouldn't get rid of dead timber
in its own conventions, etc., so the voters kicked thes out on Election
Day.
Right-to-Work, although not a ballot issue in Iowa, stirred up
unnecessary problems 17 the state. Pierson feels this issue hurts in
pil states, not just those where it is up for vote, because it stire up
labor to greater political activity nationally. Iowa has 8 right-to-work
law and Murray, candidate for Governor, endorsed the current law. This
gave organised labor a talking point on which to fire people up against
the Republican ticket.
The farm vote apparently went Democratic in its traditional
seeking for a handout. Benson is still impossible to sell, even though
he has gained some support.
In general, the record of the Administration on foreign policy
and most domestic policies was accepted by the people. The notable
exception was the farm program. Some people thought the Administration
was spending too much money, others thought not enough.
Pierson doesn't think the Democrats will be in very good position
for 1960. In fact, they will probably be worse off than if they had lost
the election.
He doesn't feel the Democrate will be able to keep the people any
happier than the Republicans have.
Notes on Phone Conversation
- 2 -
With Don Pierson
A key problem is the fact that the Republicans have been fighting
amongst themselves and most Republican criticism has been directed at the
Administration instead of the opposition. They don't realise you can't
knife people for 22 months and then try and unite for two months. The
only people the Republicans criticise seen to be their own fellow party
members.
The candidate for Governor did all the work in the campaign, the
others on the ticket didn't turn a hand. Murray was an excellent candidate,
but "got caught in the outhouse when the lightning struck". The lower
state house office cendidates were no asset to the ticket and are people
who have hung on for years. Even the newspapers questioned Pierson as to
why the other members of the ticket didn't campaign.
Republicans still have control of the state legislature, but the
leaders in the legislature are Knowlend-type Republicans who will tend to
go it alone rather than trying to unite the party. They have been consis-
tently playing petty politics and will continue to do so.
There was obviously a voters' switch to the Democrate, but Pierson
feels the Republicans can win back the support they lost. Se feels we must
not go clear to the right. Even Iowa in becoming Liberal. The party must
figure a way to win people over by being progressive ourselves. Midwest
party leaders must realise that they have to subscribe to an overall program
that will permit Republicans in the rest of the country to win as well as
in the Midwest.
The worst thing that has happened in Iowa is that all of the
strongly pro-Adainistration state leaders have stepped aside in the last
couple of years to return to business, but they could be brought back into
Notes on Phone Conversation
- 3 -
With Don Pierson
active participation, given proper encouragement. The current leaders are
providing no administration support, all are going in different directions,
motivated by petty personal ambitions.
The Administration side of the party has lost R lot of good loyal
people. It is vital to reactivate them and give them power to control the
state conventions. Most of these people now are just sitting on their
hands, primarily because no one has asked for their help. For example,
there is R strong group of very pro administration people who backed nicked
Noeg, who could have helped this time, but were not asked.
It would probably be wise if possible, to make changes in national
committeeman and state chairman. The current national committeeman did no
speech meking, and VITY little other work in the caugaign. The state chair-
man tried, but 189 unable to control the state committee. Pierson feels
many of the good people who are currently inactive, could be signed up by
an appeal from Ike or Nixon.
Fierson feels Murray should probably be run again to take advantage
of the effort spent in building him this time. No is now back teaching school.
Waggoner is probably going back to Washington to try and find a job. Pierson
is ready to help in any way possible.
The Vice President's appearance helped the campaign tremendously,
especially in the case of Bob Waggoner. It should have been a week earlier
in order to give the local people a chance to capitalize on the visit. There
were a lot of comments to the effect that this wes the best political speech
Nixon ever made.
Pierson feels that if it had not been for the corn husking contest,
the Wixon visit in Fort Dodge would have substantially outdrawn Ike's visit
to Cedar Rapids.
Nates on Phone Conversation
- 4 -
With Don Pierson
Nixon's appearance was the first time anyone has stood up for the
Administration and outlined its accomplishments in specific details. People
believed what he said. To most of them, it was new material. The
Republicans had no argument before.
January 20, 1959
NOTES ON ELMO ROPER TALK AT
J. WALTER THOMPSON LUNCHEON MEETING
November 25, 1958
1958 Resession
32% of the voters reported in March of 1958 that they were directly
affected by the current recession. By October only 25% said they were of-
fected.
70% of those who said they were affected by the recession in October
said they were going to vote Democratic.
33% of those who said they were not affected by the recession said
that they did, however, defer expenditures because of the recession.
In most cases, the blame for the recession was laid on Washington,
not on state governments.
Major Election Issues - 1958
First and foremost was the pocket book issue.
Second, was the growing distrust of our foreign policy. The average
voter wants very strongly to stay out of war and doubts that the current
foreign policy is truly effective in keeping us out of war. He feels we don't
really have peace.
Third, a growing doubt that Eisenhower is picking the right men for
his team.
Fourth, a general public confusion as to what "modern Republicanism"
is.
Fifth, a growing feeling of lack of leadership (Reper says that
Eisenhower hasn't changed, but the public mood has. When Eisenhower came in
in 152, the people didn't want strong government leadership but now they do).
Voting Habits
About 9% of the voters plan to split their ticket, but when they are
actually in the voting booth they don't, either because they become confused
or are afraid to split it.
Reper's Recommendation to Rehabilitate
the Republican Party
First, erase all of the sub-brand names. Build up men such as Case,
Cooper, Javita, and Rockefeller. They are in step with the philosophy of the
times.
Notes on Elmo Roper
- 2 -
January 20, 1959
Talk at JWT Luncheon Meeting
November 25, 1958
Second, determine what people want in a President. It is essential
at this point to get a brand image of what the voting public wants.
Voter Image of the Two Major Parties
Democrats are viewed as the party of imagination, daring, interest
in the common man, and potentially dangerous.
The Republicans are viewed as the party of big business, stability,
good when things are going well but not when changes are needed.
Voter Image of Nixon
The public is confused as to whether Richard Nimon fits as a modern
Republican or in some other category. The desirable image would be in the
pattern of Case, Cooper, etc. mentioned above.
I. R. Haldemen
HRH:Jc
NOTES ON PHONE CONVERSATION WITH
CHARLES HALLECK - RENSSELAER. INDIANA
Monday, November 10, 1958
Two of the candidates couldn't have been saved with any sort of
deal from Indianapolis. We should have saved L. Republican congressional
vote lost by 134,000, Handley by 250,000. Should only have lest two.
State committee is meeting today to talk about reorganisation.
Deal hasn't been right in Washington either. Big problem
confronting Halleck. He won't stand still for Joe Martin leadership
again - part of problem all over country - like Bill Knowland running
for Covernor.
Congrassional candidates were "11 right but Handley hurt them.
Indiana has a cynical deal like that in California.
Right-to-Work did hurt. No good. After all, a matter of contract.
Should let it ride and leave it to states. Haven't got union job contract.
Why should we split to prevent them from trying.
Halleck wesn't invited to state committee meeting today. Neither
was Capeheart. Wishes he had been. They're keeping all in own hands.
Handley - Indianapolis trying to throw everybody out. Tried to throw
Halleck out. Will throw out all county chairmen that they think did not
do very well. Taking active steps to orgenize in wrong direction.
Unfortunately, Handley didn't have to give up old job (Governor) to
run for Senator.
Halleck hasn't said anything publicly, but will blast them when
he does. (Date depends on when and how the state meeting today comes out.)
Talked to Jerry Persons today. Will have to set up better White
House - Hill relations and working procedures.
Vol. XVI, No. 11
HUMAN EVENTS
March 18, 1959
Article Section
Printed in Two Sections
The Challenge to Conservatives
By RAYMOND MOLEY and RAYMOND MOLEY, JR.
I. WHAT HAPPENED NOVEMBER 4, 1958
Five of the 15 freshman Democratic Senators
served in the House, where they compiled heavy
As election returns streamed in across the country
COPE scores in the 1956 or 1958 COPE publication
through the November hours last fall, what the
or both. On general knowledge, including AFL-CIO
authors had anticipated became an accomplished
support in the recent campaign, at least seven of the
fact. Like the implacable rise of a floodtide, swelled
remaining nine will vote the COPE line (the labor
by important tributaries and the outpouring of
press claims all of them). Hence, 44 Democratic
mighty forces, setting new and alarming high-water
Senators may be expected to vote along the lines
marks, the Democratic-labor coalition increased.
of the COPE platform.
Election day, 1958, may well be remembered as
Let us turn to the records of Republican Senators
the date when the political force of organized labor
who have voted the COPE line and are with us in
achieved substantially what it had, for two decades,
the present Congress. There are seven whom COPE
been striving for-majority representation in the
United States Senate and House of Representatives,
regards as reliable, having deviated only two to
four times. Of the three new Republican Senators,
as well as virtual control of many houses of. state
two have met COPE standards in the House of Rep-
legislatures, by those who had received its endorse-
resentatives. Thus, COPE may expect a total of 53
ment and benefitted from its political action.
usually reliable votes.
The political talents of organized labor had been
The triumph of COPE's political strategy is re-
multiplied to a point where they were a major in-
flected in the rail unions' national weekly, Labor:
fluence in American politics. What they accom-
"A key fact to hold in mind is that the liberal
plished was clear in all parts of the country and is
majority in Congress remains a slim one. In the
perhaps most graphically shown in the composition
past Congress, 180 members of the House out of
of the United States Senate.
435 and 43 senators out of 96 voted 'Right' for the
Preliminary research concerning the new Senate
public interest on three-fifths or more of the key
reveals a clear majority's identity with the ideas
issues tabulated by the AFL-CIO. These, roughly
and aspirations of the AFL-CIO's national political
speaking, might be called the liberals. In the last
machine, the Committee on Political Education. This
Congress they were still a minority. In the new Con-
majority is called "the Liberal Lineup" by labor
gress, nearly all these liberals will be back again.
publications. It is predominantly Democratic, con-
In addition, nearly all the new faces will be liberal
sisting of a huge block of Northern Democrats, an
ones, replacing conservatives for the most part.
increased number of "liberal" Southern Democrats
On balance it seems likely that around 220 or 225
-in accord with COPE in all things save "civil
House members and about 53 or 54 Senators will
rights"-and a handful of Republican followers.
be found usually in the liberal camp in the new
For the US Senate, union political action backed
Congress."
25 of 32 winners in 1958. This has changed the
"Liberal Lineup" from a strong minority to a
majority.
T
HERE ARE EVEN greater dimensions to this im-
pressive picture on Capitol Hill. They are found
To show this majority's accord with the policies
in the halls of convening legislatures and in the
and purposes of COPE, a measuring stick of COPE
Governors' mansions of many states. In November,
specifications may be used. As in past campaigns,
union leaders could boast "heavy liberal victories
COPE in 1958 distributed through its state and
in state legislatures [which are] important to
local organizations millions of copies of "How Your
labor." And union forces backed 17 of 23 successful
Senators and Representatives Voted, 1957-58." This
candidates for Governor.
tabulation lists 16 Senate and 13 House roll calls
COPE explains in the official labor publication,
which COPE regards as a test of fealty to its ob-
jectives. Each Senator and Representative is listed
AFL-CIO News, that owing to COPE's general
though not exclusive backing of Democrats, "In
and scored "Right" or "Wrong" according to COPE
three states-California, Connecticut and Ohio—
precepts. Roughly two-thirds of the issues are not
concerned with labor matters but deal with a broad
they [the Democrats] won both houses of the legis-
lature from the Republicans. In five other states
national program and comprise an identifiable po-
litical creed.
where they previously had only one house, they now
Twelve Democratic Senators who are to continue
control both houses. And in eight states, they cap-
in the next Congress had perfect scores. Five de-
tured one house of a previously all-Republican leg-
islature. In no state did they lose control."
viated only once from COPE's position. Fifteen are
regarded as "acceptable" to COPE, since they dif-
Republicans and conservatives alike may take
fered only from two to four times. This is a total
grim warning from any of the following figures.
of 32 Democratic Senators.
Republicans lost nearly 700 seats in state legisla-
Published weekly at 408 First Street, SE, Washington 3, D. C.
Copyright 1959 by HUMAN EVENTS, INC.
tures in 1958: They have lost more than 1000 since
lished tradition, and others who are unable to com-
1952. Whereas Republicans controlled both houses
prehend what is happening to their party.
of legislatures in 26 states six years ago, they now
In recent years the Democratic party has dele-
control both in only seven, one less than in 1936. In
gated more and more of its authority and responsi-
1952 there were 30 Republican Governors; today
bilities to its powerful ally. Conscientious applica-
there are 14.
tion to its allotted tasks over these years assured
To derive meaning from these formidable statis-
organized labor of notable gains before and after
tics, the dual nature of the 1958 election must be
the Eisenhower sweep of 1952. By 1956 union poli-
recognized. On the one hand, it was a prodigious
ticians had learned a good many lessons and prof-
achievement by a virile, hard-working, determined,
ited accordingly. They had learned from reversals.
and politically astute minority. On the other, it was
For example, the severe rebuff suffered in 1950 in
a stunning defeat of a conservative majority which
Ohio when they viciously attacked Taft with local
was lacking in all things that the minority had in
and out-of-state forces taught them to be more
discreet.
abundance.
The 1958 election was not another 1932 or 1936.
Most important, they learned that political vic-
A deep trough of depression cannot be blamed. Nor
tories are fashioned by workers in city blocks and
did the "liberals" have a politician of Franklin D.
precincts. Candidates for local and state office as
Roosevelt's luster heading the Democratic party.
well as for Congress must receive adequate atten-
While unemployment in certain areas and a decline
tion. Getting a heavy vote for endorsed candidates
of business activity were factors, these cannot ex-
for local office almost invariably helps approved
plain the extent of the conservative defeat.
candidates for higher office.
Second, it cannot be implied that the Democrats
In 1954 the unions clearly indicated their power
received a great mandate from the people as they
by winning for the Democratic party control of both
did in the early Roosevelt years and as did the Re-
houses of Congress. Twenty-one House seats were
publicans in 1952.
switched from Republican to Democratic while only
In a word, the major factor that won the political
four Democratic and one independent went Republi-
field for the "Liberal Lineup" was organization.
can. In the net of 16, political action of unions was
decisive in 10 or 12. Moreover, control of the Senate
II. THE TECHNIQUES OF VICTORY
was changed by the victories of Neuberger and Mc-
Namara, both decisively backed by union forces and
What HUMAN EVENTS has noted for a long time
funds.
has been reinforced in the 1958 campaign and elec-
Going into 1956 there appeared in union head-
tion. The alliance of the Democratic party and the
quarters throughout the country a manual of direc-
unions' political-action forces is stronger and more
tions, issued by COPE, called How to Win. It is the
cohesive than ever.
most readable text on practical politics to appear
Organized labor, especially the CIO, has for near-
in many years, giving detailed instructions on such
ly two decades demonstrated a capacity to engage
things as setting up an organization, training and
in political work, since union organization and dis-
encouraging workers, campaigning at the block
cipline are quite adaptable to the rigors of ward,
level, getting people registered and to the polls, re-
precinct and block work. Union treasuries suffered
warding volunteers, etc. A second publication of
none of the restrictions imposed upon corporations
great importance in 1956 was the compilation of
until the Taft-Hartley Act was passed in 1947. Then
voting records. Fifteen million copies were given
it became only a matter of charging to "education
wide distribution, reaching every union member and
and citizenship" expenditures for most activities
his family.
which are customarily the most essential tasks of
political parties. The PAC of the CIO, the AFL's
counterpart, and many lesser political-action groups
W
HEN COPE ROLLED in 1956 it was with extreme
of various unions thus continued to use the member-
mobility, over state lines into strategic dis-
ships' general funds to advance the political for-
tricts, often striking for Senate and House seats
tunes of the "Liberal Lineup." Above all, there was
where union activity was least expected. Paid work-
the driving zest among labor leaders for the things
ers concealed their identity with unions when they
that may be gained in politics.
rang doorbells, saying something like, "I'm a Demo-
crat and I'd like you to read this literature and vote
for so-and-so."
B
UT TO DESIGNATE the "liberal" and dominant
The more politically minded unions were able to
wing of the Democratic party a "Labor" or
throw thousands upon thousands of workers into
"Socialist" party is an ineffective way of conveying
the job of mobilizing the vote, and it was estimated
the real situation to the public. Both Democratic
that they were able to put 100,000 cars on the
party figures (an increasing number of whom come
streets election day.
from the labor movement) and union leaders will
Michigan's Democratic party had long since been
disclaim such labels. It is understandable that
a CIO party. In 1956 Oregon, Maine, New Jersey,
Walter Reuther, George Meany and other union
Pennsylvania, and California, among many others,
officials desire to avoid the name "Labor party"
were subjected to COPE's big guns.
while achieving the substance through a venerable
California is a vivid example of how successful
and established party. Furthermore, the American
the Democrats' giant ally can be. The Republican
people will not believe such a characterization.
party's position in the state appeared as sound as
Yet by the alliance with the Democratic party
a block of reinforced concrete when its national
and the assumption of its political tasks, the unions'
convention convened in San Francisco in 1956. The
political leaders have profited by an old trade name.
party had control of the state legislature, the Gov-
They have profited by the votes of many who cast
ernor's mansion, two US senators, 19 of the state's
their ballots for that party because of long-estab-
30 House members, and illustrious figures in exalted
ARTICLE 2
HUMAN EVENTS
office-Nixon, Knowland and Warren. Its national
methods possible. Merely to bewail labor's activity
ticket had swept the state with 700,000 votes to
and denounce it will not be effective.
spare in 1952.
In the realm of human endeavor there is a com-
But forces were at work to smash this supremacy.
mon need to return now and then to fundamentals
Early warnings were already appearing. Republican
and to beginnings. The farmer must periodically
congressional candidates in 1948 had received 59.4
plow up his fields, revive the land, and replant. The
per cent of the vote; but in 1952, despite the Eisen-
businessman finds occasions when he must replace
hower triumph, that percentage fell off to 54 per
obsolete machinery or bring new methods to his
cent, and in 1956, when Ike was again piling up a
operation. Even in our national pastime a manager
huge majority, the percentage was to drop to 46.8.
must cut and add to his squad, verse his players
COPE's thousands were at the bottom of this
in the fundamentals of the game-batting, fielding,
erosion of Republican supremacy-persuading and
etc.-and work out new strategies.
cajoling Democratic voters to register themselves,
their families and their neighbors, working side-
L
IKEWISE THERE COME times in our political life
by-side with Democratic party officials and workers
when we must go back to fundamentals. Let us
at all political levels, coaching candidates in speech-
grasp this fundamental, once and for all: the indi-
making and letter-writing, blanketing whole dis-
vidual should be the center of our concern. The state
tricts with propaganda from state and national
exists for him. The group, whatever it may be, is
headquarters and, on election day, checking on sym-
merely a cluster of individuals seeking what they
pathetic voters, telephoning, canvassing blocks and
conceive to be in their interests. But politics has for-
precincts by automobile and shoe-leather, watching
gotten the individual and makes its pitch for the
the polls, and even providing baby-sitters while
group. We must turn from that tendency and focus
wives went to cast their ballots.
on the individual. The individual forms the com-
Then came a long, two-year offensive, climaxed
munity; the communities form the state. So let us
last November with COPE-backed Democrats win-
turn to the individual in his community and start
ning the Governorship, one US Senate seat, and
from there. For the community is where political
three House seats to gain a majority of California's
life is generated. It is not where laws are made,
but it is where lawmakers are made.
congressional delegation, 16-14. Democrats also
seized control of both the state senate and assembly
The means by which the individual, through his
by large margins-26-13 and 47-33 respectively. Re-
community, controls and directs government is the
publican difficulties in California merely made the
political party. And we have, as has Great Britain,
inevitable more substantial.
found the most perfect liberty and stable govern-
ment through a two-party system.
Techniques used in California are applied from
one end of the country to the other. Officials and
A Third Party?
shop stewards of many unions regard political
There are those conservatives who believe that
work as part of their job, and at registration and
neither of the two old parties can serve their in-
election times they have thousands of paid workers
terests. They say that since this is true they should
and volunteers, trained in precinct work.
protest by rallying a minority in a third, conserva-
Finally, throughout the year scores of union
tive party. They reason quite sincerely that this
newspapers and journals reach entire memberships.
might hold a balance of power and force one or the
They are mailed to workers' homes where they will
other of the old parties toward a more conservative
reach the wives and, perhaps, guests. Content is
course. This would be fine if there were years of
therefore tailored for the housewife as well as the
time to borrow for the process. But there is no such
member. These publications are devoted in large
leisurely course before us. A third, conservative
part to political matters-office-holders and candi-
party would simply draw votes from that party
dates, the political parties and issues, and, during
which now holds the most promise of a conservative
election years, appeals for contributions for direct
stand. Thus, elections would be forfeited to the "lib-
support of candidates in Federal elections (the only
eral"-labor coalition. And in the few years ahead this
item which must be reported under Taft-Hartley)
might SO undermine the American economic and
and on occasion for the Democratic National Com-
political system as to bring us to a very real point
mittee. Always there is the message, implied or pro-
of no return. Let us rather do what we can, with
nounced, that politics and government should be of
what we have, here and now.
concern to every union member.
Rehabilitating the Republican Party
III. HOW TO MEET THE 'LIBERAL' CHALLENGE
The Republican National Committee has recently
put forward a promising program for party recon-
Attack on Labor-in-Polities?
struction and increased efficiency. But the National
There are serious abuses in the unions' political
Committee is essentially a service organization, hav-
activity, and they should be eliminated by legal
ing no authority over the many, many state and
means. The use of the general funds to support
local units of the party.
candidates and parties should be stopped. So far as
Republican strength must come from these state
Federal elections are concerned, this is illegal, and
and local organizations. Instead of sitting around
the law should be enforced.
and complaining about the National Committee or
But even if these things were done, the amazing
the President, every local unit must rebuild on its
political efficiency of the unions in getting out their
own level. It should emphasize essionalism with
vote would remain formidable. So we must seek
certain year-around, paid officials. The training of
political balance by activating every possible ele-
these leaders should encompass all details of politi-
ment in the voting population by the most effective
cal work, down to the most humble detail. In turn,
MARCH 18, 1959
ARTICLE 3
these men and women should train volunteers for
holders-their responsibility to promote a healthy
systematic, vigorous precinct work. Selection and
government with a strong two-party system. This
development of attractive candidates, too, have a
embraces the dissemination of information by the
definite place at the local level.
corporation concerning the methods by which the
individual can make himself effective in community
The Auxiliary Group
affairs, including politics.
Ideally, everyone should become a member of a
It should then (a) remove restrictions, now pres-
party organization and work for its success. But
ent in many corporations, upon political activity:
there are millions who simply will not do SO. This
(b) encourage, not compel, such participation in all
is where the auxiliary comes in. In a great many
levels of management; and (c) make known to all
communities auxiliary groups must be formed to
the individuals upon whom its existence and prog-
work in getting people activated politically who are
ress depends, including customers, what its interest
not regular party members. Such an auxiliary may
is in current legislative issues.
take an innocuous name like "Good Government
League" or perhaps no name at all. Its members
Beyond this the corporation should not and, prob-
may even call themselves "independents."
ably under the law, may not, go. But since the cor-
Such auxiliary groups should work closely with
poration has its legal existence under the law to
the more conservative party, faction or candidate.
serve the needs of the Nation and its communities,
Above all, they should not antagonize the regular
since it draws its income from the Nation's citizens,
party people. Instead, their job should be to help
it has a civic as well as an economic responsibility
with money and manpower, particularly during cam-
to do no less than what is enumerated above.
paigns. This is what the "Republican Associates"
in Los Angeles have done with marked success.
5. The exact form and methods of civic and politi-
cal activity at the community level must be of a do-
The Responsibility of Businessmen and
it-yourself nature. Each community will present its
Businesswomen
own problems, and the pattern of activity must be
adjusted to them.
Never before have businessmen and business
organizations been SO aware of the necessity that
The Forgotten Majority
they take a more active interest in politics. They
have been SO neglectful of their political responsi-
The great majority of adult Americans are mem-
bilities that they have permitted the labor-liberal
bers of no group concerned with political action, be
people to use them as whipping boys and to mark
it a labor union or a political party. William Graham
them as political untouchables. But in recent months
Sumner had in mind in his essay "The Forgotten
more individuals among them as well as corpora-
Man" the individual of this majority who "delves
tions and trade associations have prepared or are
away in patient industry
he works, generally
preparing political action programs.
he prays-but he always pays
he gives no
trouble
At the moment it is clear that many corporations,
he is not in any way a hero
or a
trade associations and businessmen generally are
problem
nor a burden
nor one over whom
vividly aware of the consequences of their neglect
sentimental economists and statesmen can parade
their fine sentiments
of political responsibilities. They know that they
Therefore he is forgotten."
must bestir themselves and that they possess collec-
Moreover, he has no leadership-no one to rally
tively the managerial talents essential to change
those who share his interests for the work of shap-
the national political picture. Some have done a lot
ing the kind of Government which in the long future
of thinking about ways and means, and some have
will serve the interests of his children. This leader-
programs either in fact or in plans. We believe
ship must be provided. It should not be pro-labor
that we are stating the essentials of their best
or pro-business or pro-any-special-interest. It should
thinking in the following conclusions:
be simply be "pro" a sound and stable republic.
1. Railing at labor for its participation in politics
denies the essential truth that all Americans should
A more detailed statement of the subject of this
article is contained in a booklet entitled "The Political
try to influence their Government. From a practical
Responsibility of Businessmen." Single copies can be
standpoint it merely gives politically minded labor
obtained without charge, and additional copies are
leaders more pretexts for charging that business
available at a nominal price. Address: Raymond Moley,
is anti-labor and serves to unite union leaders and
152 West 42nd Street, New York 36, New York.
stiffen their efforts.
2. The responsibility of businessmen in political
ORDER BLANK
life is not to create a pro-business party or move-
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ARTICLE 4