The Political Power Play for Congress

Judge Turner’s forces appear to be increasing. Since his headquarters were opened in the Ziegler block, a score of men have voluntarily added their names to the call for him to enter the convention arena in a contest with Congressman Wilson. Lawyers, merchants and laborers regard Mr. Turner as a man who would occupy a position among the leaders of Congress, whose ability and learning would give the state of Washington creditable representation. Mr. Wilson’s lieutenants begin to feel that their favorite will have anything but a walk-over, and that immediate action is required to stem the Turner tide. Register Strong, of the land office, is taking a great deal of work upon himself to assist his friend at Washington, but maintains a dignified silence about the opposition. John Todd, who holds the two offices of deputy clerk and deputy revenue collector, is counted in the Wilson cohorts, though he claims to know little of politics. The plan of campaign adopted by the men who have pledged themselves to Mr. Turner is to get control of the Spokane county delegation beyond all other consideration, then rely upon his recognized popularity in other parts of the state for the balance of his support.