Your Unauthorized Guide to the Golden Age of National Lampoon Magazine
(1970-1975)

389. Comic: Presidential Candidate with Rat in Mouth

October 20, 2024

Q. I might not have that quote exactly right, but I keep thinking about a back-of-the book Lampoon comic strip from back in the day depicting his campaign staff bringing their presidential candidate on stage—who has a rat hanging out of his mouth. Afterwards they agree, “I don’t think anyone noticed.” It was sometime in the 70s, most likely when Nixon was prez.

Do you remember the strip I’m talking about?

A. I don’t remember that one. If anyone know when this appeared, please post a comment below.

Comments

It was an M.K Brown cartoon called 'Whistle Stop'. 1st person: 'Do you suppose actually seeing the candidate eat the rat could cost us the election?' 2nd person: 'It sure was a goddamned careless thing to happen.' 3rd person: 'I don't think anyone noticed.' I had this cartoon hanging over my desk when I was a kid. I loved the utter absurdity of it. Anyone with that sense of humor, I want to hang with.

—Mike Smith

January 31, 2025 2:44 pm

Thanks, Mike! Do you remember what issue it was in? A rough guess is okay if you don't know exactly.

—Mark

January 31, 2025 3:24 pm

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