Cummins, Albert Baird

From Encyclopediak

Cummins, Albert Baird 1850- , an American statesman, born in Carmichaels, Pa. In 1869 he graduated at Waynesburg Academy, after which he studied law in Chicago, where he was admitted to the bar in 1875 and practiced for three years. In 1878 he removed to Des Moines, Iowa, and soon attained prominence in his profession and in politics. He became a member of the State Legislature in 1888, and governor in 1902, serving for three terms. In 1908 he was elected to the United States Senate to fill the unexpired term of Senator Allison, and reelected for the regular term in 1909. He became prominent as advocate of the "Iowa Idea" for a gradual reduction of the tariff, and is a recognized leader of the progressive element of the Republican Party in the Senate.