The Political Infighting of Tacoma's Republican Machine
Nelson Bennett's influence over the 'Tacoma Ledger' creates deep rifts in Pierce County politics, fueling tensions ahead of the local convention.
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In Tacoma, tensions between the 'Ledger' clique and the Republican County Committee reached a breaking point over the cost of publishing the convention call. Nelson Bennett, owner of the 'Ledger,' has been accused of using his newspaper to boost his own senatorial aspirations while threatening candidates who do not align with his interests. The Republican committee, refusing to pay 'exorbitant' fees to the 'Ledger,' instead distributed the call via posters and local news outlets. As the county convention approaches, some party members are openly questioning how Bennett can reconcile his role as a Republican national committeeman with his threats to bolt the ticket.
“How can he (Bennett) consistently remain a Republican national committeeman and go on bolting the national ticket in this state?”
This reflects the long-standing Seattle/Tacoma rivalry and the power of local media moguls to dictate political narratives. The struggle for control over convention calls and party loyalty mirrors the persistent influence of money and local 'bosses' in regional party politics.
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