Evening star., 1922-03-07
PO[|T|C|ANSFEAR
STR|KEP0SS|B|uTY
Speculate as to Effect on
Campaign-Woman Voters
Become Factors.
BY N. O. MESSENGER.

What effect the threatened strike ke
OF the coal miners may have upon
political conditions this summer and
fall is a subject of anxiety to sena-
tors and representatives who are
aspirants for denomination and to be
candidates for reelection in Novem-
Der. The possibilities of paralyzed
industries and transportation. with
consequent unemployment and un-
rest. are being taken into serious
consideration.
Statistics show an improved con-
dition in business, agriculture and
manufacturing at this time-grad-
ual. to be sure, with still a long
way to go to reach normal. but pro-
crossing with a start that is en-
couraginR. A strike at this time
could oniy serve. 1t 10 apprehended,
bring about 4 condition that could
not fail 10 register in political fer
mentatton.
Labor Department at Work.
All the press reports Of the hour Of
conditions in the soft-coal-producing
states are gloomy and foreboding. The
governmental agents at command Of
the Department Of Labor are known
to be active. but working in a mys-
terious way their wonders to perform,
the Secretary Of Labor not being pre-
pared to disclose the activities.
The most menacing feature Of the
situation is appraised to be the SEEM
ing unwillingnes of some Of the opera
tors and miners organizations to meet
in joint conference to reach an agree
ment which would be binding in the
whole competitive field. The union and
non-unfon miners are working at cross
purposes, seemingly. and the non-union
men getting the best of the bargain in
full production at lower wages.
A profound disturbance in employ
ment and production, such as the
threatened coal strike would create.
might set the whole country by the
ears on the eve of an important po-
litical campaign. the politicians fear.
That it will be a political struggle Of
far-reaching effect is recognized on
all sides. II 1t should result in re-
versing the political complexion of
tive in the very middle Of the new
administration. it might naturally in
fluence the presidential campaign
coming on two years thereafter.
William J. Bryan, who has the
faculty Of keeping his ear close to
his constant contact with conditions
in many states and meeting with
live-wire politicians everywhere. is
in Washington to hearten the demo-
cratic political managers and demo-
Gratis In Congress to renewed hope
and courage. and to stimulate them
to increasing activity. He advises
them not to try to make political capi-
tai out of party opposition to the
treaties growing out Of the Wash
ington conference, but to propose the
necessary reservations and ratify
them.
Mr.. Bryan senses the democratic
opportunity to rest in the economic
legislation of the majority, and he
is also aware of the general unrest
in the country and the germ 1t con-
tains of possible dissatisfaction with
the dominant party.
The top-liner politicians In both
parties are said to be keenly alive to
the steadying influence Of the woman
voters in the next elections to Offset
possible radical movements. The
women are counted upon to be con-
servative, and they may hold the bal
ance of power in event Of a great up
heaval growing out Of discomfort.