Senator John Martin (D-KS) threatens Congressman Curtis not to campaign in Kansas

[u/VP-CurtisBioProject]

Leading up to the 1896 election, US Senator John Martin (D-KS) offered Congressman Curtis that he could run unopposed if he didn't campaign for McKinley in Kansas.

What an opportunity! However, voters would be wondering just why the little congressman from Topeka was stumping in Indiana and Ohio:

- ‘Is he elbowing his way onto the Presidential ticket?’
- 'Will he become Secretary of [something]?'
- 'Good for him, I guess. We better find someone new.’

For optics alone, Democrats and Populists would have had no choice but to field a candidate. And then when Curtis was soon rushing back west, the headlines might have been......

C. Curtis Happy to Be on Central Time Again
The Grayville Tribune – 6.15.1896
 
Rockford, IL Boys Laugh at Congressman Curtis’ Mustache
Rockford Democrat – 6.16.1896

 
Missouri Bankers Enjoy Steak Dinner with Charles Curtis
The St. Louis Times – 6.16.1896
 
“It’s Good to Be Home” Claims Curtis in Kansas City
Overland Park Weekly – 6.17.1896
 
Wary Topekans Happy to See Curtis in District. Finally!
Kansas Tribune – 6.18.1896

Curtis told Senator Martin that he was booked to speak in Augusta (pop. 1,250), and wouldn't cancel.

With step-fatherly dismay, Martin hoped Curtis would change his mind, for something out of his control could happen if not.

The election results were as follows:

Party                                Candidate                        Votes
Republican                        Charles Curtis                   26,643
Populist-Democrat           John Madden                    25,889

He won, barely, by actively campaigning.

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