The Campaign to Defend John H. McGraw
Prominent citizens and former associates testify to the character of the Republican sheriff as rumors of past gambling and dishonesty circulate on the campaign trail.
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Prominent Seattle figures have come forward to defend Republican candidate John H. McGraw against accusations of past misconduct. Ex-Chief Justice J. R. Lewis, who served on the bench during McGraw’s tenure as sheriff, testified to his integrity, noting that McGraw was never implicated in any misappropriation during audits of the county treasurer. Similarly, residents and business associates like W. W. Price, O. J. Carr, and Capt. F. J. Burns described McGraw as a man of modest, honest character who often helped the poor, and denied that he ever operated a gambling house at the American House. Supporters argue these malicious rumors are a desperate tactic by political opponents to damage a man who served the public with distinction.
“Any man who says it was a gambling house or that John H. McGraw ever ran a gambling game of any kind, lies, and lies maliciously.”
This 1892 campaign coverage highlights the perennial nature of political character assassination and the use of 'reputation defense' in Seattle elections. McGraw's fight against these claims echoes how modern candidates still grapple with unverified viral rumors meant to disrupt their campaigns.
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