Judge — June 22, 1901 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Satire: "Give Some Other State a Chance" This *Judge* magazine cover from June 22, 1901, satirizes Ohio's dominance in American presidential politics. The headline questions "Why should Ohio monopolize the Presidency?" **The Visual Joke:** The left panel shows an ornate presidential chair positioned on a platform—suggesting Ohio has claimed or "owns" the office. The right panel depicts a well-dressed man (likely representing Ohio or an Ohio politician) standing possessively beside it. **Historical Context:** By 1901, multiple recent U.S. presidents had Ohio connections, including William McKinley (then current president, born in Ohio). The satire criticizes this regional monopoly on executive power, arguing other states deserve equal opportunity to produce presidents. The cartoon reflects 19th-century concerns about balanced regional representation in national politics.