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Editorial
April 12, 1849
Arkansas State Gazette
Little Rock, Pulaski County, Arkansas
What is this article about?
The editorial recalls the Polk Administration's contentious selection of an official 'organ' newspaper, the Union, contrasting it with President Taylor's refusal to designate one, thereby preserving press freedom. From the Memphis Enquirer.
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Full Text
Administration Organ. It will be remembered by every reader that at the advent of the Polk Administration one of the most difficult arrangements to be made was the election of an "Organ Grinder" for the administration. Gen Jackson was consulted, and there was more trouble in selecting an "Organ" than any member of the Cabinet. Finally Mr. Ritchie was chosen and he forthwith commenced his "hymn of Praise" upon the "Union" organ, which has never ceased unto this good day. Observe the contrast. General Taylor is elected President, and nothing comparatively is said about an organ. The President finds no such office designated in the Constitution or acts of Congress, and he selects no officer beyond the Constitution. When he or any of his Cabinet need printing, they contract for it upon such terms as suits their views of right—and by this means they leave the press free—free to express its opinions, and free to offer for all contracts with government.
Memphis Enquirer.
Memphis Enquirer.
What sub-type of article is it?
Partisan Politics
Press Freedom
What keywords are associated?
Polk Administration
Taylor Administration
Organ Grinder
Union Organ
Press Freedom
Memphis Enquirer
What entities or persons were involved?
Polk Administration
Gen Jackson
Mr. Ritchie
Union Organ
General Taylor
Memphis Enquirer
Editorial Details
Primary Topic
Contrast Between Polk And Taylor Administrations' Handling Of Official Press Organs
Stance / Tone
Supportive Of Taylor's Free Press Approach And Critical Of Polk's Controlled Organ
Key Figures
Polk Administration
Gen Jackson
Mr. Ritchie
Union Organ
General Taylor
Memphis Enquirer
Key Arguments
Polk Administration Struggled To Select An Official 'Organ' Newspaper, Consulting Gen Jackson And Choosing Mr. Ritchie Who Praised The Union Organ Continuously
General Taylor Elected Without Emphasis On An Organ, Finding No Such Office In Constitution Or Laws
Taylor And Cabinet Contract Printing Independently, Leaving Press Free To Express Opinions And Bid On Government Contracts