“On to Chicago” Robert F. Kennedy Pinback Button
1968
Diameter: 1¼ inches
 
Issued in connection with Robert F. Kennedy’s 1968 presidential campaign, this boldly graphic pinback button bears the words “ON TO CHICAGO.” The phrase became indelibly associated with Kennedy after his victory in the California Democratic primary on June 4, 1968. In the early hours of June 5, moments before his assassination, Kennedy concluded his victory speech at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles with the words, “And now it’s on to Chicago, and let’s win there.” 
 
The button is particularly evocative because Kennedy never reached Chicago. His assassination brought his campaign to an abrupt end, while the Democratic National Convention proceeded in Chicago that August amid profound divisions within the Democratic Party and widespread demonstrations. The slogan, originally a declaration of campaign momentum, became a poignant reminder of the campaign and its unfinished promise. Examples of the button are identified as 1968 Robert F. Kennedy campaign material. 
 
Condition: Excellent.