The Legislative Shuffle: How Power Really Worked at Olympia

Years ago, when the Washington state legislature elected United States senators, much time was wasted in making a selection among the candidates. Senator William B. Borah’s constitutional amendment corrected that evil, but the legislature continues to waste time jockeying for position and trade. In the session just closed, members found that legislation is handled almost exclusively through committees, and it is difficult to pass a bill on its merits because older members find it expedient to control state affairs through trading votes. An Olympia banker estimated that $50,000 changed hands between January 10 and March 8, though social obligations, fellowship, and political ambitions were far more powerful influences. The death rate among bills in committee is startling; many are bludgeoned to death with the double-cross, while others succumb to fevers contracted in the trading that goes on behind closed doors. Only a third of the more than 600 bills introduced were passed. The appearance of the farm bloc in the house prevented older members from easily rounding up support, and the presence of income tax and power bills further complicated the work. Lobbyists worked with perfect freedom of action, and the liquor they imported, combined with that which members could purchase, did much to speed up the legislative machinery. With 97 house members and 22 senators up for reelection in two years, the 1923 session was obsessed with securing road funds to satisfy the folks back home, making it difficult for lawmakers to vote as they personally wished.