Judge — June 23, 1883 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes electoral processes through a horse-racing metaphor. The caption "Weighing the Jockey for the Race" and the sign "JOCKEYS MUST WEIGH UP BEFORE ENTERING THE RACE" suggest an upcoming election. The figures appear to be politicians or political candidates being "weighed" like jockeys before a race—a common satirical comparison of elections to sporting competitions. The various men display badges, labels, and attire suggesting different political affiliations or interests (one appears marked "U.S.G." and others wear different insignia). The joke likely critiques how candidates are evaluated or screened before political contests, with the implication that politicians should be formally "weighed" or assessed for qualification. The "WEIGHTS ALL SIZES" sign reinforces this racing-sport metaphor, suggesting candidates of various stature compete equally. Without specific dates or identifying labels visible, the exact election referenced remains unclear.