When the Credentials Committee reaffirmed the RNC’s decision, Roosevelt and most of his delegates refused to participate in the convention and began planning the formation of the Progressive Party, which in August nominated him for president. Here, the big tent of the Republican circus (convention) is stained with mud and/or blood, while thrown bricks and bottles lie on the ground. The Republican Elephant has been severed in two, with the injured progressive front leaving the party and the conservative “stand-pat” trunk remaining behind. The hat may represent Roosevelt’s previous announcement of his candidacy, “My hat is in the ring.”