National Affairs: Young Hercules

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Last week the Daily News, Manhattan gum-chewers' sheetlet, flaunted among other headlines: FIGHT TO REWIN WIFE SEEN IN SENATE RACE. The News proceeded to rehash some scandal about jaunty Raymond T. Baker's relations with his wife, (the onetime Mrs. Alfred Vanderbilt*), and how Mr. Baker expected to "rewin her love" by being elected U. S. Senator from Nevada.

The News perceived, at least, that Raymond T. Baker, with a flower in his buttonhole, is no ordinary politician. Out in Nevada they call him "the most fearless man who ever entered Funeral Range, which guards Death Valley." Son of a rich father, he years ago prospected, struck "pay dirt," became fabulously rich. Later, he married Mrs. Vanderbilt. He subsequently performed whimsically such bits of public service as touring Russia during the War as confidential secretary to the U. S. Ambassador, serving as Director of the Mint during the Republican Harding Administration.

Last week two-fisted, able "young Hercules" Baker won the Democratic primary, secured almost as many votes as his three opponents combined. He will oppose incumbent Republican Senator Oddie in the autumn.