The Socialist Surge in Everett City Hall

It is not outside the realm of possibility that the Socialists may make a clean sweep in the coming municipal election. It is almost a certainty that they will elect a part of their ticket at least. We do not know that their candidates are any more honest than the candidates that have filed on old party tickets. Neither do we know that they are any better qualified to administer city affairs than are some of the old party candidates. Furthermore, despite the steady increase in fundamental Socialist belief, we do not believe that a majority of the voters have become converted to Socialistic principles. In this instance we refer to Socialistic principles as meaning 'production for use and not for profit.' There must be some reason for the widespread sentiment in favor of the Socialist ticket and the declaration of many voters, hitherto old party adherents, that they intend to vote the ticket this fall. We ascribe it in part to the average voter's disgust with old party methods, a protest against a long standing interference of corporate interests in city affairs. High taxes, heavy improvement assessments, exorbitant rates for light and water—these have been always with us despite changes in the political complexion of our administrations and the general good personal character of those chosen to fill public office.