Oklahoma Seething as Volunteers Side with Counties in Arranging Election, Oct. 2, 1923

Election Proceeds with Troops Guarding Polls. . . Oklahoma Seething as Thousands of Volunteers Side with County Officials in Arranging for Election

By the Associated Press

Oklahoma City, October 2—An election unequalled in the records of America brought to a climax a bitter factional struggle which began when Governor Walton opened his warfare on the Ku Klux Klan. Rumbling of Intimidation and violence were heard as thousands of special deputies took their stations at precinct booths throughout the state. Indications were that in 72 counties at least the governors strategic jockeying in the 11th hour efforts to block the election would have no effect. But five counties have signified that they would obey the governor’s command to prevent an election by force of arms if necessary on the grounds that it will be illegal. The election is to decide whether the voters will vest in the legislature authority to convene in its own call and investigate the official acts of the executive. Impeachable offenses have been charged against Governor Walton.

Reports indicted the polls were opened throughout the state with the exception of four full counties and part of a fifth and that an unusually heavy vote was being cast.

From the front page of Tri-City Gazette, Leaksville, N.C., Tuesday, Oct. 2, 1923