What is a Favourite Son ?
sut,—It is with some apprehension that I take issue with such A undoubted expert as Professor Brogan on the subject of American politics. It is my impression, however, from his article Presidentit1 Starters, of April 23rd, that he is incorrect in his interpretation of th term " favourite son." He comments on the candidacy of Mr. Averei
Harriman: "To be New York's favourite son is a great help." However, Mr. Harriman, whilst the official candidate for the nomina- tion from New York State, is definitely not entered as a " favourite son."
The " favourite son " is a manoeuvre used by State politicians who enter a candidate with little chance of getting beyond the first ballot at the convention. The State political leaders are then able to place the votes of their delegates where they consider the results will be most propitious. I would add that Mr. Harriman commented, when first approached on the subject, that he would run only as a candidate in the race to the finish and not as a "favourite son."—Yours sincerely, F. A. S. WOOD. 183 Maple Avenue, Seacliff, Long Island, New York, U.S.A.
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