The Birmingham age-herald., 1914-03-16
w. M. Drennen's Candidacy for State Senate Causes
 Considerable Comment
FACTIONAL- FIGHT
 SEEMS IMMINENT
Line Will Be Drawn Between Prohi- bitionists and Antis-Candidates for Sheriff Are All Strong and
 Making Aggressive Races
Nv HIGH w. ROBERTS

in Jefferson county.
 There are 10 races-eight in which there are opposing candidates. Each promises to be entertaining within it. self When the entire number is punched. it is evident that there will be excitement enough to appease the most inordinate appetite.
 Discussion throughout yesterday con cerned the candidacy of w. M Dren nen for the state senate. It is consid- cred probable that MT. Drennen has ann bition to be elected president pro tenn of the senate. He would be then within reasonable striking distance of the gov ernor's chair-four years hence. In the foregoing many found reason for his candidacy. Otherwise, his reason for running-save that he is anxious to serve the people--is obscure. MT. Dren nen is prohibitionist. He voted for the late proposed prohibition amendment to the constitution. But he is no stronger in the prohibition faith than B. A. Thompson, one of his opponents. And Mr. Thompson also voted for the amend ment. And MT. Thompson has another edge on the Anti Saloon league vote in
  ing the candidacy of R. P. Hobson
 Thomas J. Judge, when seen yester- day. stated that he was surprised when he read in The Age Herald that MT. Drennen had announced
 However" he added, q am glad that he is in the race It will make my elec- ton doubly sure"
 MT. Judge is local optionist.
 Fractional Fight Imminent
 In the race for the lower house of the legislature, in which there are 32/patri- otic candidates, the prohibition, line will be drawn. It is generally understood that the word has been sent down by the prohibitionist leaders that prohi bitionists must vote for certain indi- viduals. It Is understood, furthermore. that prohibition leaders have sent the word down that -prohibitionists must vote for certain individuals.
 There Is no question but that two slates--tangible or intangible-will be made. This means that IS candidates will be left high and dry" These IS, if they continue in the race, will raise the cry of "gag rule" and ring poli- ties" and thus additional spice will be dashed into the political pudding.
  nor the anti-prohibitionists have displayed sufficient courage to declare in a body for a candidate for governor, both fac tons have entered into a determined struggle to acquire control of the legisla- ture. The main fight will be in regard to the personnel of the Senate. And thus 1t will happen, probably, that instead of constructive statesmen, there will be gathered in Montgomery for another four years bunch of bitter factionists swear ing vengeance against each other. Ala barna, as a result may reap q luxurious harvest of peculiarly worthless tares.
 Four Strong Candidates
 In the race for sheriff, there are four candidates. Of the four, neither is a lame duck" Each has chance, because he has already developed considerable strength. Thomas J. Batson of Bessemer will come up from that section of the county with d strong vote and he will be warmly supported in Birmingham. George H. Bodeker is also unusually strong. There are a great many people Tn Blr- mingham and Jefferson county who be- lieve that Bodeker was ''railroaded" out of the city hall not evidence, but be- cause certain prohibition politicians went after" his official head. Mir. Bodeker is making an aggressive campaign. Will T. Lathem, who has served the people from behind the cashiers window of two
 
 many friends has been gaining strength every day. He is the exception to the rule that the without enemies is the man without friends. No one dislikes S Lathem, and a great many people are ex- ceedingly fond of him. Gus Lee Is a strong candidate. He is making an ae- tive, aggressive campaign. His personal popularity and his happy knack of dis playing his strength of character without being offensive is standing him in good stead.
 In the near future the race will be less clouded than at the present time. Now, no one can with any degree of accuracy predict the winner.
 Three Other Struggles
 Owen Gillespy has strong opposition in his race for another term as auditor. He : has,so many opponents, however, that un- der the plurality plan, which will obtain, he stands excellent chance. VIII R. Kockett is known throughout the coun- ty and is very popular. His friends con tend that he will win. w. D. Gum, James c. Williams, W l.. Trice and D. l.. Blake are other candidates in this race.
 pretty fight is being waged for the of fee of solicitor. Harrington P. Heflin is confident of winning His opponents are also confident. z. T. Rudulph has devel- oped considerable strength. F. D. McAr-