Jasper County Democrat, Volume 22, Number 77, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 24 December 1919 — WHAT ARE THEY THINKING OF? [ARTICLE]

WHAT ARE THEY THINKING OF?

No one familiar with the facts will tax the Washington Post with undue friendliness to the present national administration. When, therefore, this paper propounds a pertinent question to the Republican congress, it is likely to be heard with respect even if the answer is not immediate and satisfactory. “One of the first duties of congress is to put teeth into the laws which will enable the executive to grasp and throttle radicalism, expel or imprison anarchists, exterminate preachers of violence, exclude dangerous 4 aliens and generally . to clean America’s house,” says the Post. “What is congress thinking of, that it should delay in this matter?” the paper asks. Then the editorial indicates one or both of the causes in its next question. “Is it lacking in individual or committee initiative or courage?” Attorney General Palmer has repeatedly pointed out to the Republican leaders of congress that additional legislation is needed to

authorize bls department to deal with radicals and “reds.” When once the task has been properly sanctioned by law there remains the need of money to enforce the statutes. Congress has refused both the authority and the funds.