McWashington

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Text on Button McWashington
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White text on a green background

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“McWashington” is a fictional and likely satirical name that humorously or critically combines well-known political figures. Likely originating around the 1972 U.S. presidential election, when George McGovern and Richard Nixon were major contenders, the button probably combines “Mc” (a hint at McGovern or Eugene McCarthy) with “Washington” (referring to George Washington). This pairing envisions a fictional “ideal” candidate and offers a playful critique of political branding. It is part of a broader trend of novelty or “anti-buttons” from the 1960s and ’70s, which used satire to comment on politics. 

Additionally, the “Mc” prefix has cultural significance, linked to the global McDonald's brand. In American slang, “Mc” often signals something mass-produced or generic, like a “McMansion” for a cheaply built large house. Thus, “McWashington” might also be a humorous remark on how political or national ideals are simplified, reducing Washington, D.C., or George Washington’s legacy to fast-food-style, mass appeal.

Sources

1972 United States presidential election. (2025, November 15). In Wikipedia. Retrieved November 17, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1972_United_States_presidential_election 

McWord. (2025, October 2). In Wikipedia. Retrieved November 17, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McWord 

Catalog ID PO1251