Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

House Inquiry of Nazi Activity Seen in Peril

June 13, 1934
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

Reprinted from Yesterday’s Late Edition

Representative John W. McCormack, chairman of the Congressional committee investigating subversive propaganda activities in the United States, disclosed today that “powerful forces” are at work in an attempt to cripple the inquiry into Nazi and other propaganda activities in the United States.

At the same time the House of Representatives appropriated $20,000 for use of the committee in addition to the $10,000 fund already allocated. Mr. McCormack had requested $40,000, but the sum was cut in half on the floor of the House.

A strong lobby, understood to be opposing the investigation at every turn, was instrumental in thwarting the chairman’s request. The lobby is made up largely of so-called German American societies which during the last few weeks have been flooding the offices of Congressmen with letters, printed leaflets and literature advertising the merits of the Nazi movement in Germany.

The advantages of the House inquiry and the attitude of its opponents were debated by Representatives who by a vote of 170 to 37 decided to appropriate $20,000 for the committee. Representative Warren (D., N. C.), chairman of the accounts committee, said in opposing the $40,000 appropriation that the inquiry committee has employed thirteen investigators.

One of them draws $550 a month, he said, two receive $220, eight $225, one $165, and another $145. Warren said that a former “janitor” for the immigration committee who received 90 a month is now a clerk receiving $330 a month.

“This is the highest payroll I’ve ever seen in an investigation carried on by the House,” Warren said.

The residents of Nebraska of German extraction are indignant over the inquiry, Congressman Carpenter said, speaking on behalf of his constituents. Mr. McCormack jumped to his feet and shouted in reply:

“I challenge the right of the gentleman to speak for the loyal Germans of this country. The gentleman ought to be ashamed of himself.”

Mr. McCormack said in connection with the work of the committee that the sources of Communistic propaganda in this country will be investigated along with Nazi propaganda activities.

LIPSKY DESCRIBES SITUATION OF REFUGEES IN PALESTINE

The situation of German-Jewish refugees who are settling in Palestine was described by Louis Lipsky, Zionist leader, at the Palestine Night of Loyal Lodge 198, Brith Sholom, at The Clubhouse, 150 West Eighty-fifth street last night. He was introduced by Rabbi Jacob Sonderling.

A check for $100 was made out by the organization for the purpose of transporting two Jewish children from Germany to Palestine. Morris I. Goldman presided. Leon Kairoff entertained.

LAGUARDIA HONORED

Mayor F. H. LaGuardia was the guest of honor at the annual meeting and dinner of the Citizens Union last night at the Town Hall Club, 123 West Forty-third street. Other guests included Bernard S. Deutsch, Louis Lande, Miss Pearl Bernstein and Maurice P. Davidson.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement