Speech #600093854

In the limited tine which I have to discuss this subject. I am not assuming to go into the reasons that drive me to the conclusion. but I want to say. in reply to my friend from Massachusetts . who has suggested that some Democrats under this provision would be permitted to recommend appointments. that I thank him for that guaranty. and in reply to his statement that this is but a repetition of the old doctrine. "to the victor belongs the spoils." I want to call. his attention to the fact. and this Houses attention to the fact. with no sense of disrespect or meaning discourtesy to the Civil Service Commission. that that doctrine has applied in a large degree since the days of Andrew Jackson and does apply to a large degree during the days of Theodore Roosevelt. The appointment of a Commissioner of Immigration was said before the election to have been promised to one man. and it was denied. Now. the first appointment made after the election was the gentleman whom it had been charged was to be appointed in consideration ofhis fight on Gompers-"to the victor belongs the spoils." you see. But gentlemen repudiate the doctrine and at the same time apply it.