A Deadlock at the Capitol
As Washington's state legislature struggles to elect a U.S. Senator, tales of bribery and party pressure dominate the halls in Olympia.
The story, cleaned up
A cleaned-up reading of the newspaper page: spelling and layout repaired, one story lifted off a crowded page. It follows the original closely but it is not a transcription. The original page is below; read it if a detail matters.
Olympia, Jan 17—The conviction is strong tonight that Senator Allen will be re-elected. The Turner forces are demoralized, yet the Democrats hope for a long deadlock. It is openly stated that if a delay can be purchased, money is available to buy it. One Republican member was reportedly offered $1,000 to aid in producing a stalemate. Meanwhile, Speaker Arrasmith of the House has called for nominations, and the political maneuvering between the rival camps continues unabated as the state waits for its representation.
“The Democratic policy is one of delay, and it is openly stated that if a delay can be purchased there is money here to buy it.”
The 1893 deadlock over the U.S. Senate seat showcases a time before the 17th Amendment, when legislatures were frequently paralyzed by party infighting and allegations of financial corruption in the pursuit of power.
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