Should I Stay in Politics? - Page 8

Abstract

Personal recollection of Hays' campaign defeats of 1928, 1930 and 1933 and career in government administration positions ; -8- I think wealth is concentrated too much. I believe in "sharing wealth" (rather, I believe in a fairer distribution of opportunities to produce wealth), but Huey Long's methods were offensive to me and I said so. It lost some of the rank and file who really belong in my camp. I am interested in correcting the injustices in the economic order, particularly in the South, and I am willing to assume a responsibility for protests. But protesters aren't always vote-getters. Furthermore, I believe in progress through the democratic process rather than in the spectacular schemes of political opportunists. Obviously, politics for me will never be a bed of roses. There is there question of finances, always a serious one for those of us who get into the game without a private fortune at our command. Another element is the consideration one has for his friends. In my case, after three defeats I don't want to ask them to get into another fight unless there is reasonable assurance of victory. What to do about the future is, therefore, not a simple question. Sometimes an ambitious youngster asks me for advice about his future - should he go into politics? I used to say, "Sure"; now I never give a categorical answer. Still, I think I'll stay with it. When I look at the one side of the ledger I find a lot to my credit for the ten years activity. I am acquainted with people in every township in Arkansas and am generally considered "respectable". Some of the older politicians call me an upstart, the conservatives think I'm a little wild; but thousands of friends will start with me if I make another race. Should I stay in politics? I wish I knew the answer!