The Reformer Thomas M. Vance
A local legislative candidate promises to shake up the 'dry bones' of the state's corrupt legislature and end Pinkerton-style labor control.
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Thomas M. Vance, nominated by acclamation for the state legislature, stands on a platform aimed at the farmer and mechanic. Vance, who built his career in the Northwest independently of his father's fame, vows to ventilate the infamous agricultural deal of Laughton, Conover, and Black. Among the measures he supports are the mechanics' lien law, the regulation of railroad freights and fares, a railroad fence law, and the total abolition of Pinkerton-ism in the state.
“Should Mr. Vance be successful... his constituency may rely upon the dry bones of the last corrupt legislature being well shaken up.”
Vance's platform—focusing on labor protections like the mechanics' lien and opposition to private security forces (Pinkertons)—highlights the intense populist labor struggles of Washington's early statehood, which still find echoes in modern labor debates.
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