I got this email about my Sunday cartoon.

"Eric --
Glad this cartoon finally saw the light of day.
Now, back to the labeling you use: Is it really necessary to give the donkey a "D" button on its suspenders? Isn't it obvious that it's a Democratic symbol? Would you have put an "R" or "GOP" on an elephant?
Seattle Times readers are pretty smart folks, and those who read the editorial page are probably smarter still. I don't think you have to spell out the really easy stuff. "

No, it's not necessary for most of my readers. You are right, Seattle Times readers and intelligent and on top of their game. But the key word is "most". I want to reach as many people as possible and there are always new readers. For example, lots of teachers use editorial cartoons in their classrooms to introduce young students to politics in a way that's fun and engaging. Truth is, I hate labels too. What I try to do if possible is integrate labels into the cartoon subtlety as I can. But clarity is the key. If the message isn't clear the cartoon fails.

As to your other question, "Would you have put an "R" or "GOP" on an elephant? "

Yes, I do it all the time. Here is just one example among many.

Eric Devericks/The Seattle Times