Barack Versus Hillary: Race, Gender, and Political Cartoon Imagery of the 2008 Presidential Primaries

Abstract

This study examines the representations of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton in political cartoon imagery during the 2008 presidential primaries, with specific attention toward portrayals of race and gender themes. An analysis of primary campaign— and election-related cartoons from 57 American cartoonists found Hillary Clinton was featured in more political cartoons than was Barack Obama, but they were often featured together in some competitive representation. Cartoon imagery of Obama identified weaknesses of his campaign but oftentimes portrayed the issue of race in favorable images. Cartoon imagery of Clinton focused on gender-related themes of her emotions and appearance but also went beyond gender themes to highlight her determination to remain in the race. When both candidates were featured, or portrayed along with Republican nominee John McCain, contrasts of race and gender were prominent in political cartoon imagery.