Governor McBride's Vision of Labor and Capital
In a 1903 address, Governor Henry McBride argues that the interests of labor and capital are inextricably linked, while condemning corporate bribery as the ultimate threat to the state.
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At a labor carnival held in Seattle, Governor McBride made an address well worthy of the attention of organized labor. He touched upon many subjects of importance to the toiler. Congratulating organized labor on their midsummer carnival, he noted that it is to the interest of the state that wages should be high. With high wages, a wage-earner, by the exercise of industry and frugality, can provide for himself and family and lay by some support for their dependent years. He also noted that while capital should earn a fair return, the corruption of public servants through bribery by wealthy interests is a form of lawlessness more dangerous to the state than open violence. McBride urged that the remedy for these evils rests with the people, who must pay closer attention to party caucuses and primaries to ensure that only honest men are placed on guard.
“It is equally as important that capital should not be starved as it is that labor should not be underpaid.”
Governor McBride's 1903 rhetoric mirrors modern discussions about the 'dignity of labor' and the influence of money in politics. His warning that the health of the state depends on honest governance rather than the unchecked power of corporate wealth remains a central theme in Washington's political discourse today.
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