Evening Republican, Volume 20, Number 68, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 20 March 1916 — TOM TAGGART TAKES THE SHIVELY TOGA [ARTICLE]

TOM TAGGART TAKES THE SHIVELY TOGA

Governor Ralston Rewards “Blonde Boss” Foij His Loyalty as Head of Democratic Machinfc It became known definitely Sunday night that Thomas Taggart is to be the successor of the late Benjamin F. Shively in the United States senate. Governor Ralston, who has the appointive power, is. expected to issue the commission Monday or Tuesday and it is probable that Mr. Taggait will be on his way to Washington before the end of, the present week to receiva the oath of office and begin his official duties. - - Mr. Taggart will serve as United States senator until next November, when he will run for place again on the democratic ticket if nominated at the democratic state convention on April 26. Mr. Taggart has not yet stated that he will be a candidate for the nomination.

There is Some talk of nominating Governor Ralston for the senatorship in any event Mr. Taggart should decide not to be a candidate, even though the governor has signified his intention to retire from public life at the end of his term next January and return to the practice of law. Thomas Taggart has been a prominent figure in state and national politics of the democratic party for many years. He is almost as well known, however, as a business man. He began his political career in 1886 when he was elected auditor of Marion county. He served two terms in this office, receiving a second nomination without opposition. He has served three terms, 1895 to 1901, as mayor of Indianapolis. He was mentioned as a senatorial possibility at the time Senator Shively- was nominated. Mr. Taggart is 60 years old, having been born in Monyhan County, Ireland, Nov. 17, 1856. At the present time Mr. Taggart is president of the Denison hotel in Indianapolis, find also the president of the French Lick Springs Hotel Co. He has developed the French Lick hotel property until if is known as one of the most, famous health and pleasure resorts-dn the country.