Talk:Smoot Hearings

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[edit] What does this paragraph mean?

The article originally said:

In the 1900s, U.S. Senators were elected by the state legislators. Seeking approval from President Joseph F. Smith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was required. It was church policy that its senior officers could not campaign for office unless approved. President Smith gave his approval and blessing. In 1902 Smoot moved to build up support and run as a republican senator. In January of 1903, he received 46 votes, compared to his democrat competitor who won 16. Smoot was elected.

This doesn't make much sense. I've tried to rewrite it in accordance with my knowledge of history and common sense, but I'm not that familiar with the period, so please speak up if I'm wrong. --Jfruh 03:33, 24 Jun 2005 (UTC)

You are absolutely correct. I couldn't think of a better way to word it at the time. You did a good job. The three points I wanted to make: Smoot needed and got approval; Legislature elects senators; Smoot won decisively. Jgardner 06:03, 24 Jun 2005 (UTC)

Glad I didn't screw anything up! One follow-up: are you sure those vote totals are right? The total number of voting legislators (62) seems awfully low. Does it perhaps only represent the votes in one of the houses of the state legislature? --Jfruh 07:05, 24 Jun 2005 (UTC)

Good question. I don't know how to find out - I was quoting some other source. Jgardner 23:54, 24 Jun 2005 (UTC)