The Birmingham age-herald., 1923-08-01
ALABAMA IS FOR UNDERWOOD

Since Oscar W. Underwood has left to the people of Alabama the ques- ton of whether or not he shall be- come candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, there is no doubt of the verdict. The citizens of this state experience immeasufable pride in being able to offer to the na- tion a man pre-eminently qualified to administer the duties of this high of flee. There can be only a resounding answer of affirmation and approval of MT. Underwood as the fitting standard bearer of Democracy, not only for Alabama, but for the entire South. If there ever was a man who could sweep aside the political barriers that have stood overlong between the South and the presidency, Oscar Underwood is that man.
 The history of Underwood as repre- sentative and as senator has re- vealed high capacity, as proved by his many acts of constructive legislation, and by the many worthy measures to which he has given his intelligent SUD- port. Understanding the tariff as per haps few men ever understood that intricate question, he was the author of a measure that brought this govern ment substantial revenue and yet which operated as no barrier to the freest possible commercial interchange between this nation and all the rest of the world. His wisdom in formu- lating tariff schedules stands forth in still sharper outline against the dark cloud of Republican failure superin- duced by an unconscionable Republi- can tariff. With Underwood as presi- dent, there is certainty that our for eign commerce would thrive as never before and that our merchant fleet would soon be the busiest in the world, thus solving at one and the same time our two pressing problems of a for eign market for our surplus and of final disposition of our merchant marine.
 Alabama, for the soundest of req sons, is proud of her senior senator. His statesmanlike capacity is recog- nized throughout the nation. National journals, Republican as well as Dem ocratic, concede his ability, and specu- late with lively interest upon his chances for winning the nomination. There is no influential newspaper that reveals one shadow of doubt of Un- derwood's presidential stature. In spite of the bugaboo as to the chances of candidate from the South, there is evidence of Republican uneasiness over the prospect of the distinguished Alabamian's candidacy. Those who know Underwood's strength believe that uneasiness to be not ill-founded.
 Alabama should take great pride in presenting Oscar Underwood's name to the national convention. The dele gates from this state should keep his name before the convention, until he has been nominated, or until it is clearly apparent that other views as to candidate are held by the national convention. The Republican disunity is the opportunity of which Demo- cratic party solidarity should take full advantage. United behind a candidate of outstanding ability, integrity and experience in government, the Demo- crats cannot fail to win their way back into control of this nations af- fairs. Alabama offers Underwood as the candidate whom she sincerely believes to possess these qualifications in eminent degree.
 THE GRADE-CROSSING INQUIRY
 Tho Iepislativa com n1ittae bavioor