The Farmer’s Daughter

A Swedish-American farm girl who becomes practical and persuasive in public life. She leaves home to attend nursing school and later steps into the political fray, using honesty and common sense to challenge corrupt tactics. Her decision to campaign signals a bold move beyond traditional expectations.

A U.S. Representative who admires Katie’s candor and becomes her ally in a man’s world. He navigates political pragmatism while supporting her rise, balancing ambition with a protective instinct. His proposal to Katie marks a personal commitment that mirrors his political trust.

An unscrupulous party-backed candidate whose true character is masked by political charm. He is exposed as a member of an extreme nativist group and is willing to smear opponents for power. His bribery of Petree drives the central conflict and tests Katie’s integrity.

A powerful political broker who initially supports Finley but plays a pivotal role in the campaign’s turning point. She and Joseph orchestrate the reveal that forces Finley to lose party support. Her influence helps steer the party toward backing Katie.

A loyal, steady butler who embodies discretion and dedication to his employers. He provides a stabilizing presence in the Morley household and supports Katie’s endeavors from behind the scenes. His loyalty helps the political operation run smoothly.

A barn painter whose ride becomes a pretext for a bribery scheme. He is manipulated by Finley and hidden away at a remote lodge, illustrating how ordinary individuals can be drawn into corrupt plots. His actions catalyze the public confrontation that drives Katie’s campaign.

One of Katie’s three burly brothers who backs her campaign with strength and family loyalty. He participates in the effort to retrieve Petree and defend the family’s honor during the political crisis. His presence emphasizes the solidarity of kin in times of public pressure.

Another of Katie’s brothers, bringing physical presence and familial support to the campaign. Olaf stands with Katie against the smear campaign, reinforcing the theme of family as a source of courage. His involvement helps shift the momentum in Katie’s favor.

The third Holstrom brother who joins the campaign efforts with physical prowess and loyalty. He helps confront the challenges posed by the antagonists, underscoring the importance of collective family action in public life. His role complements his siblings’ support for Katie.

Katie’s mother-figure within the Holstrom family who anchors household resilience amidst political turmoil. She embodies traditional values while supporting Katie’s public ambition. Her steadiness provides emotional grounding for the central plot.