The progressive farmer. [volume] (Winston, N.C.) 1886-1904, 1888-04-24
Goodman, n. c..

LAUR1NBURG, N. c., April Is, '8S.
Providence seems to have especially
provided "Gubernatorial timber" for
the coming campaign Of 1888, if we
are to Judge from the supernatural
ance of candidates in the field, and the
perfect qualifications of all. There are
other claims by which we may de-
termine the "people's choice" other
than consultation with the chairman
of different county executive commit
tees. As a rule, these worthy officials
know little of the sentiment of the
public, save the idle preference of
local politicians and street gossipers who
are as a rule we'll versed in politics,
and who always advocate those candi-
dates who, in their opinion, will best
serve their purpose, &c. The true in
dex to the peoples choice is found at
the primary meetings; or better still,
at the ballot box, for the farmer and
mon.polaacal being who attends the
primaries, often are silenced by the
"wire-pullers" of political chicanery.
Thus it is almost impossible to ascer-
tain the true index to the ~"people's
choice" The people have so discov-
cred, and intend to exercise their
choice at the ballot box, where intimi-
dation is punishable by law.
The above comments were called
forth by an editorial in the last issue
of the News and Observer, in which the
editor has consulted the different
chairmen of county executive commit
tees, for the choice of their people,
&c. The replies, as will be seen,
leaves Alexander in "the wake"
Such, l am convinced, is not the choice
of the people, unless indeed we leave
the farmer entirely out of the question.
This sturdy class has born with
good grace the neglect of their rights
until now, but believe me. Mr.. Editor,
the day has passed when the farmers
will sit by and see their every wish
disregarded by a few "littlejohns" of
the demagogue persuasion.
We no longer beg recognition; we
demand it, and blessed be God we have
O1O pO"OI " SO"tUCUHt u GU ud1 1SuCS
before the world.
Now as to the merits of any of the
great number of aspirants, we have
nothing to say, believing all to be
well qualified, &C.; but, sir, when cleo
ton day looms up in the bright east
ern horizon, she will either seal the
"people's choice" or Lose the State to
Radical ruin. [ do not personally adj
vocate such radical measures, but
when the poor farmers interest is
overlooked from year to year by the
political bosses of packed conventions,
it is time for them to exercise their
right at the ballot box. They are
pardonable, too, for they have year in
and year out supported the regular
nominee of the Democratic party, for
the sake of party ascendency, with no
good result to their own interest save
an honest administration.
We want a man entirely "represen-
tative of the people," and in all candor
can find such in none other of the can
didates than Sidney B. Alexander. In
justice to a much-wronged people we
ask a showing, and in all respect for
other aspirants, respectfully ask them
to abide their time.
To my brother farmers throughout
the State, l would urge upon them the
necessity of a sympathetic representa-
tive, both in the Gubernatorial chair
and the Legislature. Let every friend
ofgood government, justly. admins
tered to all classes and conditions of
man, attend the primaries and select
only such men as will reflect their
wishes at the county and State con.
ventions. Don't elect one among you
because OF his prominence or qualifca-
tlons, but elect only such as will voice
your sentiments at-the conventions.
When a brother or neighbor is NOM
mated for the county convention, or
State convention, do not vote for him
because he is your friend, neighbor,
or for fear of offending him. First
ascertain his views, choice, &C., then
if a reflex of the representatives pres
ent vote for him with instructions to
faithfully represent your wishes at the
convention'to which he is elected.
If these few hints are followed up,
brother farmers, we shall not only
nominate a worthy representative as
Governor, but will roll up such a ma
jorrity for him in November as will
astonish, if.not paralyze, the "corrup-
tionists of. political fairness and
equality" in the grand Old North
State.
Lot Alovopdor no uo,r ua+ob uord