On February 11, 1944, Ralph Chaplin (far left), the editor of the Tacoma Labor Advocate and author of the labor anthem "Solidarity Forever," was the Master of Ceremonies at the Pierce County Republican Club's Lincoln Day dinner at the Masonic Temple. Wendell Willkie, the 1940 Republican candidate for President, was the keynote speaker at the event. Seated are: (l to r) Governor Arthur Langlie and Mr. Willkie. Thousands flocked to hear Mr. Willkie including, to the surprise of the Republicans, many Democrats. Although Mr. Wilkie had campaigned against the New Deal, he was a former Democrat and held liberal progressive views that put him at odds with the leadership of the Republican Party. The Republicans backed Thomas Dewey against Roosevelt in the 1944 general election. Having survived several heart attacks, Mr. Wilkie died on October 8, 1944 at the age of 52. (T.Times, 2-12-44, p. 1)
Willkie, Wendell, 1892-1944; Langlie, Arthur B., 1900-1966; Governors; Chaplin, Ralph; Public speaking--Tacoma;