The Wasp — 1890 — page 312: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The "Politics" section contains satirical commentary on Republican and Democratic electoral tactics. The text criticizes Republicans for using "Buckley's little game"—an apparent scheme involving ballot manipulation and fraud. It mocks Democrats for failing to counter this strategy effectively. The page ridicules specific political figures and practices: Gen. John T. Curtino is described as a Republican candidate embodying "energy and utility," while the text sarcastically notes Republicans' use of "free-lance" Democratic operatives to manipulate votes. The final section, "Vote the Straight Ticket," directly advocates against splitting ballots, warning that doing so allows fraudulent manipulation. It specifically names "Buckley's lambs" as the threat, suggesting organized corruption requiring unified voting resistance. The satirical tone throughout criticizes both parties' electoral dishonesty, particularly Republican ballot-rigging schemes.