La Follette's Autobiography; A Personal Narrative of Political Experiences (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1913 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XII THE TRUE HISTORY OF THE CAMPAIGN OF 1912 FOR THE REPUBLICAN NOMINATION TO THE PRESIDENCY SETTING aside all doubts, and accepting the promises of support from the Progressives at face value, I entered upon the campaign for the nomination with vigor and determination. I secured the services of Walter L. Houser, former Secretary of State of Wisconsin, as campaign manager. Headquarters were established in Washington, and he took charge, with a clerical force. The campaign was diligently prosecuted, beginning in July, 1911. We sent out thousands of letters into the northern states, especially the states west of the Ohio River. My candidacy was treated with derision by supporters of the Taft administration, and the great body of the metropolitan press. But in less than three months it had taken on proportions which compelled recognition. The correspondence became so heavy, and the demand for literature and campaign speakers so urgent, that it was soon necessary to double the working force at headquarters, and extend plans for organization by states throughout the country, excepting in the south, in New York, and in a part of New England. Even in the extreme east it would have been possible to have made much headway had our means permitted. Indeed, we found the whole country ready to break away from the reactionary control of politics and government. Many times I had said to my associates that the people were much in advance of the Progressives in Washington, and overwhelming proof of this came to us from every side. Strong Progressive organizations were soon perfected in numerous states, and we were greatly strengthened and encouraged. By October the campaign had attained such proportions that it seemed desirable and necessary to...