FOR THE GOOD OF THE GOVERNOR

The slogan, "Make the World Safe for Democracy" died a painless death many years ago, and even, the catch word "For the Good of the People" has been tortured and distorted almost beyond recognition, for recent politicians have struck out "People" and substituted "Political Machine." In Arizona today the country witnesses the unfortunate spectacle of a Governor declaring martial law for no palpable reason. The State Militia has been called to "defend" the site of the Parker Dam project against "encroachments" on the State's rights. Had this step been taken before Election Day, a number of motives might be suspected, but since it can have no possible effect on elections, the action must be attributed either to a false understanding of the situation or some more ulterior motive such as political or personal aggrandizement; Governor Moor has been assured that the rights of Arizona will be respected. He has been told that Arizona will benefit from the dam as much as her neighbors. He has been told that disputes between, two states should be entitled in court. And he has answered by massing the State Militia.

Whether Arizona can afford such an extravagance is a question to be solved by Arizona. An undertaking of this sort is expensive and in times of high taxation and little stray money, additional and needless expenditures are intolerable to the people. But Governor Moor's action is not merely of local consequence. He is following and affirming a precedent set some years ago by Governor Murray of Oklahoma which menace every person in the country. The State Militia exists to protect the interests of the majority of citizens when every other method of protection has failed. In the case of the Parkor Dam project, the interests of the citizens of Arizona have already been amply insured by legal contracts. They need no further, and particularly no military protection. There is great danger of Governors in other states following Arizona's example. This country may see the State Militias transformed from a bodyguard of the people to a bodyguard of the Governor, a political weapon.

It is difficult to understand what Governor Moer hopes to gain by this sudden military offense. He cannot be doing it for the good of the state, which means that in all probability he is considering his own advancement. He may wish to consolidate his position, or he may seek some nebulous political advantages. No one can object to a Governor trying to stand on his own feet, but in doing so, he must not tread on the toes of others.