Michigan Seat

Few people would have difficulty in naming a Senator from Michigan. James Couzens does not hide his person and his opinions beneath many bushels of reticence or modesty. But the name of the other Senator from Michigan? The slender, slightly stooped man of 75, with snow-white hair and academic features? The venerable schoolteacher who beat out Henry Ford as Michigan's "favorite son" at the National Democratic Convention four years ago? He joined his colleague on the front pages of the newspapers last week. While Senator Couzens was peevishly demanding Secretary Mellon's resignation, Senator Woodbridge Nathan Ferris, twice elected "good gray governor" of Michigan (1913-16) and first Democrat to be sent to the Senate from that State in 70 years--quietly, unostentatiously died of pneumonia.

Though he was one of its least conspicuous members, Senator Ferris' death made a difference of two votes in the Senate. The Democrats lost him and the Republicans stood to gain a seat when his successor was appointed by Republican Governor Frederick W. Green of Michigan.

Much-predicted for the appointment was Joseph Warren Fordney of Saginaw, Mich., oldtime U. S. Representative (1899-1923), famed for his high-tariff record as chairman of the House Ways & Means Committee (1919-23). Looming as competitors for the seat in the primaries and election were two former governors of Michigan, Albert E. Sleeper of Bad Axe, and Chase S. Osborn of Sault Ste. Marie; one judge, Ira W. Jayne of Detroit; and Editor Arthur H. Vandenberg of the Grand Rapids Herald.

A propos Senator Ferris' death, the Senate's medical member, flowery Copeland of New York, commented on the fact that 34 Senators have died "in harness" within the past dozen years. "Probably every one of them had his life shortened by the frightful conditions of the chamber. One only needs to look over the Senate in session to know that this thermos bottle is still doing deadly work to the health, strength and comfort of Senators."

A plan has long been afoot to move the Senate chamber 40 feet north, so that it could have windows. Now, flanked by corridors and offices in the heart of the Senate wing of the Capitol, its ventilation is indirect save through flat, inadequate skylights.