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Letter from Herbert S. Hadley to Theodore Roosevelt

Letter from Herbert S. Hadley to Theodore Roosevelt

Governor Hadley expresses the concerns of Missouri Republican leadership over Theodore Roosevelt’s support for the recall of judges and judicial decisions. While they are in favor of the initiative and referendum, the recall of judges threatens the independence of the judiciary. Hadley interpreted Roosevelt’s recent speeches as a warning that the recall of judges could be a last resort and suggests that Roosevelt clarify his position to lessen the “popular alarm.”

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1912-03-03

Letter from Henry Cabot Lodge to Theodore Roosevelt

Letter from Henry Cabot Lodge to Theodore Roosevelt

Senator Lodge is comfortable with states experimenting with the initiative and referendum but believes that this would be dangerous for the United States. If voters cannot select decent representatives they will certainly not be able to “legislate intelligently.” He is also concerned about the recall of judges and views the independent court as “essential to freedom.” Lodge agrees with Theodore Roosevelt’s refusal to publicly announce that he would not accept the presidential nomination. He sends his best wishes for Roosevelt’s silver wedding anniversary and will read Kermit Roosevelt’s article with great interest.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1911-12-18

Letter from Albert H. Walker to William H. Taft

Letter from Albert H. Walker to William H. Taft

Albert Henry Walker fears that the independence of the federal judiciary can lead to irresponsible behavior as federal judges can only be removed through impeachment. He suggests that federal judges should be able to be recalled similar to the plan for state judges in Arizona. He supports his suggestion with the case of Judge Henry W. Blodgett who altered his judicial conduct after facing potential impeachment. He also points to Judge R. W. Archbald whose current deviations from impartial justice cannot be corrected.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1911-08-09