Summing Up

Political observers began to take stock of the legislative record of the Coolidge Administration, which from appearances has been none too successful.

Items:

World Court. The President was mildly favorable towards U. S. entry with reservations. Republican leaders have practically ignored the proposal, and now Senator Lodge brings forward an alternative.

Orderly Retrenchment. The President said to Congress: "It must be maintained and ought to be strengthened by the example of your observance." Congress has passed the Bursum Bill and the Bonus Bill and has other measures in prospect, carrying many millions more of extra appropriations.

Tax Reduction. The President advised tax reduction and pressed the Mellon plan. Congress has passed a tax reduction bill, but it differs in many respects from the Mellon plan, notably by having considerably higher surtaxes.

Tax exempt securities. The President urged abolition of this form of tax evasion. A proposed constitutional amendment for the purpose was defeated in the House.

Railroad Labor Board. The President advocated the Board's continuance until a better means of labor adjustment could be found. A bill to abolish the Board is before the House and may pass.

Ami-Lynching Legislation. The President recommended a measure of this type. Congress has done nothing and apparently will do nothing this session.

Child Labor. The President favored an amendment to the Constitution giving Congress power to regulate or prohibit child labor. After being passed by the House this proposal has apparently been set aside for this session in the Senate.

Immigration. The President favored restriction, but asked that if Japanese were excluded some time be provided for adjusting the matter diplomatically with Japan. A restrictive bill was passed by both Houses, but the House refused to accept the President's latter suggestion.

A Soldier bonus. The President declared himself in opposition; Congress passed a bonus bill.

Farm relief. The President advocated relief. Congress has as yet passed no measure of this type, and although such a measure will probably be passed, it Vill probably not conform to all the conditions laid down by the President.

Muscle Shoals. The President advocated that Muscle Shoals be sold and that a commission be created to undertake the sale. Congress preferred to keep the business in its own hands and has as yet not disposed of the property.