Cass & his cabinet in 1849' The satire imputes to the Democrats of 1848, led by candidate Lewis Cass, the corrupt practices of the Van Buren-era party. The artist also criticizes Whig repudiation of stalwart party leader Henry Clay in favour of the independent Zachary Taylor in its 1848 presidential nomination. Cass stands at the head of a table before a paper marked 'Democratic Platform,' addressing his 'Cabinet' composed of old-line Democrats.