In the 1890s, ballot reform was so threatening to political machines that they fought it tooth and nail. This Judge cartoon captured that fear — corruption hanging on for dear life while the idea of fair elections pulled away faster than they could stop it.
More than a century later, the cast of characters has changed, but the panic looks the same. Whenever democracy becomes harder to rig, the same old forces — different names, same instincts — scramble to block it. This artwork isn’t about left or right. It’s about the people who fear fair elections, and the democratic reforms they try to drag down with them.
Vintage satire, modern warnings. Real ink. Real history. Anti-authoritarian then and now.
Durable stainless steel core with enamel finish resists rust and staining | Lead and BPA-free | Not suitable for microwave use | Hand wash only.
In the 1890s, ballot reform was so threatening to political machines that they fought it tooth and nail. This Judge cartoon captured that fear — corruption hanging on for dear life while the idea of fair elections pulled away faster than they could stop it.
More than a century later, the cast of characters has changed, but the panic looks the same. Whenever democracy becomes harder to rig, the same old forces — different names, same instincts — scramble to block it. This artwork isn’t about left or right. It’s about the people who fear fair elections, and the democratic reforms they try to drag down with them.
Vintage satire, modern warnings. Real ink. Real history. Anti-authoritarian then and now.
Durable stainless steel core with enamel finish resists rust and staining | Lead and BPA-free | Not suitable for microwave use | Hand wash only.
