In 1894 , Fairbanks was the most visible organizer and speaker on behalf of Republicans in elections for the state legislature . He was credited with delivering Republican majorities to both the Indiana House of Representatives and Indiana Senate , ensuring that a Republican would be elected to succeed Daniel W. Voorhees in the United States Senate at the end of Voorhees 's term in 1897 . At the 1896 Republican National Convention , Fairbanks was both temporary chairman and keynote speaker , further raising his public profile . Fairbanks was the most likely Republican candidate for Voorhees 's seat , and in January 1897 Republican legislators formally chose him as their nominee . On January 19 , 1897 , Fairbanks was elected to the Senate , and he took his seat on March 4
1896 Republican National Convention
1896 Republican National Convention
Charles W. Fairbanks