Enthusiasm at a campaign-opening luncheon sponsored today by First Assembly District Republicans was described as a “good omen” by County GOP Chairman John H. Cooke.
He told 250 party members in the Chez Ami that the meeting was indicative of “a desire to pitch into the campaign with more vigor than ever.”
Mr. Cooke said that 1959 is “a year of decision” to determine whether the Republican philosophy will continue in the Board of Supervisors and return to City Hall.
He described this philosophy as “plain honesty, decency and efficiency in government.”
State Senate Majority Leader Walter J. Mahoney emphasized the party’s opportunity this year. He eulogized Mr. Cooke as a man “whose integrity is like the Statue of Liberty.”
He said: “If we follow the principles on which the Republican Party was founded, as interpreted by a man of Mr. Cooke’s character, we can’t help but have victory this fall.”
The meeting, arranged by State Committeeman Rocco White, was the first of a series to be held in the Assembly districts.
Former Assemblyman Thomas J. Runfola, the First District’s campaign co-ordinator, introduced all Republican candidates in political divisions, all or partly within the First District.
