Forgery

Dan Feldstein was a dedicated precinct volunteer for Independents in the 48th Ward. He knocked on doors, distributed campaign literature, and did what he could to persuade voters to support his candidates. He was usually successful.

In every election, he handed voters a detailed letter on powder blue, personal stationary, listing the reasons to vote for his chosen candidates. Many read his letter and followed his advice.

His 1980 communiqué promoted the election of Arnold Levy for Democratic Ward Committeeman. Shortly after he placed it under voters’ doors, another letter, also on his powder blue, personal letterhead, found its way into voters’ homes.

It claimed that he had been forced by Alderman Marion Volini, Levy’s chief backer, to write the first letter. The second one proclaimed that he really supported incumbent Committeeman Martin Tuchow.

Feldstein was incensed. The opposition had forged his personal stationary and had misrepresented his views to voters.

He attempted to contact all the voters in person to make his position clear, but there just wasn’t enough time. Levy lost the precinct. (And the election).