The sun. (Jacksonville, Fla.) 1905-1908, 1906-03-24

A vigorous assault is to be made on that limb of
the plum tree from which hangs those two fat plums
the Supreme Court Judgeships. The apathy mark
ing this portion of the campaign has been dssipaed
and the struggle for the fruit has begun between six
prospective candidates, and possibly seventh, If
none of those in the field fail to toe the scratch
April 49, the closing date of filing candidacy.
Besides the present incumbents, Justices Charles
b. Parkhl and j. B. Whitfield, who are seeking re-
election, Ira D. Carter and j. B. johnson of Live Oak
W. W. Flournoy of DE Funiak and Thomas j. Clarke
ct Monticello will appear before the public, and on
account OF this number, to split the vote, A. j.
Henry Of Lake City may add his name to the list
The contest is assured of liveliness at least, with
these entries and will give the people ample range
of talent in making choice though there is exist
ing reason why they be better served than by the
two Justices who candidates for reelection.
Each has been faithful worker both are capable
well.trained and experienced in law.
Yet, 1t is q matter for public qualification that
there should be additional aspirants for such mpor
tant Offices and that the array of talent offered should
be- OF excellent quality 1t affords a stimulus neces
sary to the good of the people in selecting Judges by
preventing limitation of choice
While it should be desire that all political con-
tests be conducted in clearly manner, the race for
Judgcship should be made with the highest degree
OF political purity. Ways and of vote getting
not unseemly in the scramble of other Offices un
worthy the seeker of judicial honors. In this re-
spect, however, the campaign is foreshadowed by the
best indications.
is possibly the best known of the candidates. with the
exception of Justices Parkh and Whitfield. He is
one of the strongest candidates that could be found in
West Florida; his knowledge Of law well qualities
him for the position and member of the bar in
that portion of the State is regarded with higher
esteem No doubt could exist OF his ability to fill
the position with honor.
The candidate from the old home of Justice Park
hill, Hon. Thomas j. Clarke, is another who stands
high as a lawyer. Mr.. Clarke has served two terms
Representative from Jefferson County, and his
Legislative record pleasing to his constituents
Both candidates from Suwannee County are able
lawyers Mr. Carter having served as State Attorney
with marked ability, while Mr.. johnson, his former
partner, has proved his legal skill on many occasions
Judge A. j. Henry has not yet declared his inten.
ton of being candidate although the report has
been spread that he will be in the race He too is
q lawyer of much experience.
Such field, il all continue in the fight until the
first primary, will result in much division of the
vote Of the State each candidate is possessed of
strength, but in this both Parkhill and Whitfield
will have an advantage. Each is well known and
each has q good record, and their popularity will in
sure them unfailing support in many quarters.
A case where common has been left in the
lurch and ambition has defeated Judgment, is that
of Hon. Park Trammell of Lakeland, who will oppose
Hon. Stephen NJ Sparkman for election to Congress-
Mr.. Trammell represents Polk County in the Sen
ate. was president of the body at the last session.
creating favorable impression In that capacity and
giving more than ordinary promise for the future