This political cartoon refers to another scandal earlier in Nixon’s career that was resolved by his famous “Checkers” speech. In 1952, when Senator Nixon was running for Vice-President on Eisenhower campaign, reporters revealed that Nixon had a secret “hush” fund. In a nationally televised speech, Nixon insisted that the money was used for legitimate travel and campaign expenses, never for personal expenses. However, he did admit to receiving one personal gift from an admirer – not money, but a cute black-&-white cocker spaniel named “Checkers”. Nixon’s little daughters loved the dog, and he promised that under no circumstances would he return it, a simple act to have all of America believe him. The public response was sympathetic and Ike and Nixon were elected in a landslide.
didweactuallystartthefire 