Rensselaer Republican, Volume 12, Number 38, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 11 June 1880 — THE PLATFORM [ARTICLE]

THE PLATFORM

[Lofaaspoit JouroaL] ; The platform of tbe Chicago convention is so short, and so plain that its language is not to be misunderstood. The Republican party has always gone before tbe people with issues and principles well defined, and not like tbe Democracy, who have sought, by a multitude of words, to deceive tbe people. The

platform is not made to read one way in the North and another in the South; on* way on the Pacific coast and another in New England. It sounds clear, distinct and unmistakable. The preamble is an epitome of the history of the Government under the Republiean administration, true,concise and complete. The first resolution pledges the party to renewed efforts to restore perfect peace and harmony between all tbe States, to tbe payment of the pensions due soldiers,the extinguishmemt of the national debt, and the promotion of the reviving Industries of the country. There is no false ring about it, but it clearly expresses the will and determination of the party.

The second plank reaffirms that this is a nation and not a confederation of States. It is but a reaffirmation of one of the cardinal principles ot Republicanism. The third plank declares it to be tbe duty of tbe national government to aid, as far as possible, the cause of education, upon the ground that tbe safety of the nation depends upon the intelligence of the people as a mass.

The fourth recommends tbe Incorporation of a clause in the federal constitution forbidding State legislatures from giving aid to sectarian or religious schools. This is a measure so eminently in consonance with tbe genius of our people, that it should commend itself to every thinking person. Tbe fifth declares against polygamy, in favor of protecting naturalised citizens, against subsidies and land grants, in favor of maintaining the faith of tbe government both to soldiers and creditors, and against Chinese immigration. The whole plank will meet with a hearty response from every good citizen. The sixth commends the administration of President Hayes. The seventh is an .arraignment of the Democratic party, for its sots of omission, aud it is a most complete indictment of that most perfidious party. As a whole the platform is good. It is sound. Upon it the Republican party will go before the people, and with it will win a glorious victory.