Publisher’s Letter, Nov. 5, 1956

Dear TIME-Reader:

WITH this last pre-election issue, TIME rounds out its coverage of an eventful and fascinating running story, the 1956 campaign. Our editors and reporters on the story have crisscrossed the 48 states seeking out the fact and flavor, the trend and meaning of contests at all levels. The aggregate result for our readers, we feel, has been a living portrayal of the land and the people — as well as the people’s choices.

The covers shown on this page recall a few of the major political stories we have undertaken. There were many others. Thanks in large part to a fine staff of skilled, grassroots reporters across the country, we have also been able to take close readings on tight Senate races (Ohio, Pennsylvania, California, Kentucky, Oregon). Last week, in “New Faces of 1956,” we sifted out 15 key contests in the House, where, interestingly enough, the struggle seems to come down to youngsters v. oldsters.

This week we publish the net of our findings on how the states will go (see p. 23). This forecast is based on two thorough canvasses of the states — the first in early October, the second right up to closing time last Sunday night. This is the way it looks to us in the home stretch.

Whatever the consensus of the governed is to be, once again we have witnessed a spirited expression of a way of life. Everyone was heard. The democratic process was well served.

And so let us join in the traditional wish: May the best man win!

Cordially yours,