Editorial Cartoonists of the Atlanta Journal and Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) :: Lou Erickson ("Eric") – The South’s Gentle Satirist

MCGOVERN BANDWAGON

Artist: Lou Erickson (Penciller)

2 Comments - 53 Views - 0 Like

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The Atlanta Journal (Atlanta, Georgia) · Wed, Aug 2, 1972 · Page 26

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Artwork Details

Title:	MCGOVERN BANDWAGON
Artist:	Lou Erickson (Penciller)
Media Type:	Pen and Ink
Art Type:	Sketch Card
For Sale Status:	NFS
Views:	53
Likes on CAF:	0 1
Comments:	2
Added to Site:	7/16/2025
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Description

The illustration dated August 2, 1972, appears to be a political cartoon depicting the "McGovern Bandwagon" pulling a reluctant cat labeled "Nixon" — a satirical nod to the shifting dynamics of the 1972 presidential campaign. At that time, George McGovern had just secured the Democratic nomination but faced backlash over his vice-presidential pick, while Richard Nixon, the incumbent, was dealing with the early fallout from the Watergate scandal. The cartoon likely comments on the perceived momentum of McGovern’s campaign and Nixon’s unease.

The phrase “McGovern Bandwagon” itself was frequently used in editorial commentary to symbolize the surge of liberal enthusiasm and grassroots activism that McGovern’s candidacy inspired. It became shorthand for the progressive movement’s attempt to reshape the Democratic Party, often portrayed as idealistic, anti-establishment, and out of step with mainstream voters. Political cartoons and op-eds used the “bandwagon” metaphor to critique both the optimism of McGovern supporters and the perceived naivety of their political strategy — especially as polls began to show Nixon maintaining a strong lead.

In this context, the cartoon’s imagery of Nixon being dragged behind the bandwagon adds a layer of irony: it suggests either that Nixon was being pulled into McGovern’s orbit against his will, or that McGovern’s campaign was overreaching in its belief that it could shift the political tide. Editorial commentary from the time often highlighted this tension, noting how McGovern’s campaign struggled to connect with traditional Democratic bases despite its energetic start.

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Marcus Wai
Member Since 2005

Posted on 7/17/2025

I just figured that bandwagon has forgotten and left behind the traditional Tom Cat voters (whatever group that could represent).

Alan E
Member Since 2025

1 - Posted on 7/17/2025

Marcus Wai wrote:

I just figured that bandwagon has forgotten and left behind the traditional Tom Cat voters (whatever group that could represent).

likely refers to Senator Thomas F. Eagleton, who was briefly George McGovern’s running mate. Eagleton was nominated as the Democratic vice-presidential candidate but was forced to withdraw after revelations about his past psychiatric treatments, including electroshock therapy.

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