A Signal From Maine When Republican Maine goes Democrat and
dry Maine goes wet the change passing over the face of America is demonstrated dramatically. Maine, it may be argued, is not the whole Union. It in fact contributes only six Presidential votes out of 581. But Maine habitually holds its biennial elections nearly two months before the other States and the fashion of regarding it as a weather vane is long established. Not since 1914 (in Mr. Wilson's first Presidency) has a Democratic Governor been elected, and Monday's voting has increased Mr. Roosevelt's chances enormously. In the United States more than in most countries nothing succeeds like success, and while a mere adherence of Maine to its traditional Republican faith would have left the general political situation much as it is, the psychological effect of the swing-over will be enormous. Mr. Hoover's chances rest on the prospect of a favourable turn of the economic tide between now and November, and though the turn may come, and even be beginning already, it is doubtful whether it will flow strongly enough within six weeks to carry the Republicans to victory. So far as international politics are concerned there would be nothing to fear, and perhaps something to hope, from a Democratic victory. The Democrats at any rate stand for a lower tariff..
* *
Previous page
