Judge — January 11, 1896 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Judge magazine cartoon depicts **Grover Cleveland** (identified by text as "the man with the key") confronting a large, menacing figure representing either a political opponent or institution. The figure wears military/official regalia with scrolls labeled "LEGISLATION" and carries a boot stamped "FIRST FAITH VETO." The satire concerns Cleveland's use of **presidential veto power**—he famously vetoed numerous bills during his terms. The cartoon suggests a power struggle: Cleveland wields a key (executive authority), while his opposition represents legislative force. The phrase "Either that animal goes" implies Cleveland is threatening to use his veto to remove unwanted policies or opponents. The artwork satirizes the tension between executive and legislative branches during Cleveland's presidency.