of Governor Herbert R. O'Conor 775

But the State Income Tax cannot be eliminated altogether* Any such
foolish attempt would mean that the hospitals, the child caring institutions and
the sehols would not have sufficient financial support. Anybody who attempts
to win votes by saying that income taxes in Maryland can be eliminated alto-
gether at this time, is simply making another $2 tag promise.

But the, marked contrast between Republican and Democratic State Admini-
stration isn't confined to the fiscal situation. Let me invite your attention to
the Judicial System of the State. Under Republican rule the Minor Judiciary
was a blot upon the fair name of our State. Since we assumed office four years
ago, a modern Trial Magistrates System has been adopted; the Traffic Court
of Baltimore has been materially improved; and the People's Court of this City
has been elevated to the highest possible plane. Also as a result of my sugges-
tion, a system is in effect whereby appointments to the higher courts are made
after recommendations are submitted by the Maryland State Bar Association
and the Local Bar groups, resulting in the appointment of the most desirable
jurists.

Again politics has not been the deciding factor as, for example, when I
unhesitantingly appointed Chief Judge Sloan, of Cumberland, a Republican,
and a Judge of eminently high qualifications.

Similar marked improvement is to be found in the functioning of the various
State departments. In the State Industrial Accident Commission, so important
to the interest of the working classes of the State; in the Department of State
Police; in the Office of the Insurance Commissioner; in the administration of
the Parole System; where most effective work has been done in the reclamation
and rehabilitation of offenders. Likewise, in the correctional institutions, a
vast change has been wrought, beneficial to the inmates and to the State, result-
ing in savings and increased work.

If time allowed it would be possible to detail the clear advantages which
have resulted from the creation of the Legislative Council, under legislation
which I sponsored four years ago. This continuing study of legislation between
sessions not only has made for improvement of the quality of legislation, but has
enabled the members of both houses of the General Assembly, irrespective of
Party affiliation, to aid in the preparation and consideration of desirable laws.
This innovation has been one of the most forward-looking steps taken in regard
to the legislative process in Maryland during this generation.

These and many other accomplishments can be cited, and it is upon the
basis of actual performance, rather than rash promises, that the Democratic
Party rests its case. We appeal to the intelligence and the sound judgment of
the voters. The record of the past deservedly earns for our Party a continua-,
tion, especially when we are in the midst of a crucial period. Our program for
the future has been based upon the lessons and the experience of the past. That
program will continue to advance Maryland along the path of good Government.

The voters of Maryland will be convinced, I am confident, that their best
interests during these next four years will be served by retaining in office an
Administration that has proven its ability to handle the situation. I, therefore,