Judge — February 28, 1903 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This 1902 *Judge* cartoon satirizes Alton B. Parker of New York as a potential Democratic presidential candidate. The large rooster (representing Parker) struts among smaller figures with caricatured features, depicted as demons or devils—likely representing Democratic party rivals or internal factions. The rural setting with a church suggests commentary on Parker's provincial appeal or background. The "new rooster" metaphor implies Parker as an untested or upstart leader within the party "den." The threatening postures of the surrounding figures suggest skepticism about his viability or warnings of trouble ahead. The artist (Gillam) uses animal caricature—a common *Judge* technique—to mock Parker's candidacy and the Democratic party's internal divisions during this election cycle.