The Democratic National Convention, Denver 1908: If Candidates’ Families Could Answer Honestly…
John W. Kern, a well-liked Democratic politician from Indiana, became his party’s choice for vice president in 1908.
On July 11, 1908, The Rocky Mountain News ran this story about what happened when the reporter called his wife in Indianapolis for her reaction:
“I had hoped you would give me the news that Mr. Kern had not been nominated.
I, of course, appreciate the honor conferred upon Mr. Kern, but I cannot understand what conditions at Denver have arisen that would cause him to have accepted the nomination.
Mr. Kern has injured his health in past campaigns by his activity, and as he means vastly more to me than any political honors, I am sincerely sorry, although I suppose I should not say so.”