The Wasp — 1891 — page 502: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page features a portrait of **Hon. Asher G. Caruth**, a Kentucky Representative, accompanying an article titled "Our Gallery of American Statesmen: Should United States Senators Be Elected by Direct Vote of the People?" The satire critiques **wealthy influence in Senate elections**. The article discusses how rich men use their fortunes to manipulate senatorial selections through state legislatures, rather than direct popular vote. It references scandals involving bribes and the "Millionaire Club" controlling the Senate. The biographical note on Caruth describes his political career, establishing him as an example of a legitimate elected official—contrasting with corrupt wealthy politicians the article condemns. The satire argues for direct popular election of senators to circumvent plutocratic control of government.