Political machines were a major force in 19th and 20th century American politics. Political machines were organizations controlled by city- or county-level politicians, which had significant influence over local government activities such as awarding contracts and issuing jobs. This article discusses the criteria used by political machines when determining which companies were awarded public work projects.

NCAA’s Influence

The first criteria used by political machines to evaluate potential contractors was their relationship to the National Civic and Athletic Association (NCAA). The NCAA was a powerful organization in most American communities and was able to exert a great deal of influence over local governments. Political machines were likely to award public work projects to companies with strong connections to the NCAA. Having connections to the NCAA signaled that a company was likely to be trustworthy and capable of performing the job.

Promise of Votes

The second criteria political machines used to evaluate potential contractors was if the company promised their votes. Political machines regarded voting in their favor as a form of reciprocation for awarding public works projects to companies. Companies that promised to throw their support behind political machines and their allies were more likely to be approved for the project.

Qualifications

The third criteria political machines used to evaluate potential contractors was qualifications. Political machines generally awarded contracts to companies that had the necessary qualifications to complete the job successfully. This included ensuring the company had enough experience and resources to complete the project in a timely manner. Companies that lacked the necessary qualifications were not likely to be approved.

Anti-Union Policies

The fourth criteria that political machines used to evaluate potential contractors was support of conservative labor policies. Political machines were typically hostile towards labor unions and sought to maintain power by limiting their influence. Companies that actively supported anti-union policies were more likely to be approved for public work projects.

Good Discounts

The fourth criteria that political machines used to evaluate potential contractors was good discounts. Political machines sought to maintain power by offering generous discounts to potential contractors. Companies that offered good discounts were more likely to be approved for the projects.

In conclusion, political machines were likely to approve public work projects for companies that had strong connections to the National Civic and Athletic Association (NCAA), promised to vote in their favor, met the necessary qualifications, demonstrated support of anti-union policies, and offered good discounts. Companies that met these criteria were more likely to be selected for public work projects.