LaFollette, Robert M. (1855–1925)

POLITICAL LEADER, GOVERNOR, and senator from Wisconsin, and 1924 presidential candidate, LaFollette was a founder of the Progressive movement and a consistent proponent of social and legislative reform. His frequent opposition to conservative political leaders earned him the nickname “Fighting Bob.” Born in Primrose, Wisconsin in 1855, LaFollette was the son of a farmer. He received his degree from the University of Wisconsin and began a law practice in Madison. LaFollette won his first election in 1880, to become district attorney. Five years later, he began a term as a Republican in the House of Representatives. After his first two unsuccessful attempts to win his party's nomination for governor, LaFollette was able to carry the party and state in 1900, with re-election for two more terms. One of his first reforms was to change the state office nomination process from party caucus to primary and to set limits on campaign spending. With the backing of farmers, small businesspersons, and professionals, LaFollette's Wisconsin Idea increased taxes on corporations and wealthy businesspersons, regulated railroad charges, and increased funding for education.

When LaFollette was elected senator, he continued to fight for the same kind of reforms, often drawing the wrath of big business. In 1908 and 1912, LaFollette was a contender for the Republican presidential nomination, but failed to garner the support he needed to place his name on the ballot. In 1912, he cast his support for the newly-formed Progressive Party candidate, Teddy Roosevelt, who favored reforms that would lead to greater regulation of big business, more protection of individual rights, and women's suffrage. Because the Republican Party was divided, the Democratic candidate Woodrow Wilson easily carried the election. Although it continued to be a viable party on the local and state levels, the Progressive Party was not able to establish itself nationally.

Robert LaFollette's opposition to World War I and to the Treaty of Versailles provoked accusations about his loyalty, but he was re-elected to the Senate by a landslide in 1922. LaFollette remained a member of the Republican Party in spite of continuing disputes with conservatives. In 1924, in the midst of prosperous times, Calvin Coolidge easily captured the nomination as the Republican presidential candidate. LaFollette and his followers [Page 360]pressed for the inclusion of progressive reforms as part of the 1924 Republican campaign platform, but were unsuccessful. LaFollette revitalized the Progressives and began his own campaign for the presidency. His platform, calling for lower taxes for the middle class, women's suffrage, labor reform, and public ownership of utilities, also earned support from the Socialist Party.

Robert LaFollette was a founder of the Progressive movement and a consistent proponent of social and legislative reform.

The 1924 campaign used radio extensively for the first time, with both major conventions receiving coverage. The acceptance speeches of Coolidge, LaFollette, and Democrat John Davis were broadcast. Party workers diligently arranged for as many stations as possible to broadcast the candidates' speeches throughout the campaign. This strategy helped LaFollette, especially as he lacked the funds available to major party candidates. The Progressive Party quickly learned that a radio speech brought more contributions than a public appearance, and was able to mount a national campaign with limited funding.

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