Don't Vote for Politicians Who Arouse Antagonism Between Men, Says Editor, March 20, 1920

From the editorial page of the Hickory Daily Record, March 20, 1920

Think! Mr. Voter

It ought to be practicable for candidates in this county, state and national campaigns to wage their fights along wholesome lines. If it be true that one party stands for certain principles of government, then the adherents of that party should outline those principles, emphasize them, and explain where they are better for the public interest than the principles and policies of the other party. The sensible voter will admit that this is fair enough. He will admit it now. In the heat of a campaign, in which his only interest can do good, honest government, he should remember it still.

The Record is emphasizing these things during the dull months in hope of helping to keep down bitterness later on. There is no sense in bitter, partisan fights. Where an official has done wrong, he should be exposed without fear or favor, and the party responsible for this officer should be held to account. The voters should demand nothing less.

But during the summer and fall months, after the conventions have all met, there will be candidates in the field who will resort to every species of rottenness known to the trickster. Deception will be the favorite weapon used. Many honest men will be asked to listen to speeches that will be of harm to them, unless we are greatly mistaken. Some speeches will be made only to arouse prejudice, to cause one man to dislike his neighbor, and to create bitter feeling. Policies of government will be attacked, no matter how good they are, in hope that receipt will win a few votes.

The Record does not know that such speeches will be made in this section—and it would be pleased if none are made—but it asks its readers to beware of candidates, no matter which party they represent, who try to arouse antagonisms between men. One can still be a good party man without subscribing to any such trash.

And better still, a whole lot of earnest men, using their heads, can make politics better. Generally a man running for office makes the sort of appeal that he thinks will win votes.

What sort of appeal will it require to strengthen your interest in honest, efficient government?