In "The Scapegoat," political ambition and corruption are central to the narrative. Dunbar illustrates Asbury's rise from a humble barber to a lawyer and political figure, highlighting the attraction of power. However, Asbury seems unmotivated by power, instead led by a desire to better life for those around him. Even still, his good intentions lead to betrayal when he becomes a scapegoat for the mistakes of his political opponents.

Despite seeking revenge successfully, Asbury's story is not intended to inspire vengeance. Instead, it is meant to emphasize how minorities face limitations on their ambition compared to more privileged individuals.

The story also explores how politicians manipulate the political system for personal gain. Asbury's political colleagues, who should have worked alongside him for the benefit of the Black community, became jealous of his rising political fame. Despite struggling for years to gain recognition like Asbury, they conspire against him to boost their own popularity rather than supporting him as they should.

For example, Bingo rallies other African Americans seeking political influence and turns them against Asbury. Bingo even suggests that Asbury "ought to be killed" for crimes he himself (and his allies) are guilty of. Although the story does not explicitly detail their corruption, Dunbar suggests Asbury's opponents are ruthless, illustrating how politics often prioritizes self-interest over the community's well-being.

Similarly, Dunbar implies that corrupt politicians often do not see themselves as corrupt. They view themselves as innocent "lambs," while portraying their opponents as scheming "wolves," as Bingo tells Asbury:

"Oh, yes, in politics, we are all lambs, and the wolves are only to be found in the other party."

This mentality allows politicians to justify their own actions and dismiss any wrongdoing within their own party while attributing all faults to their adversaries.

The story also highlights how the community plays a role in the corruption of politicians. In Dunbar's view, people vote based on superficial factors like impressive parades and appearances rather than actual intentions or actions. Dunbar suggests people can be easily manipulated into giving their votes, unwittingly allowing corrupt individuals to run their community.

Race and opportunity are also significant themes in "The Scapegoat." The story explores the racial dynamics within the community of Cadgers, where Asbury operates his business. Asbury's success as a barber and, later, a lawyer in a predominantly Black neighborhood reflects the resilience of African Americans in the face of racism.

Asbury's decision to open an "Equal Rights Barber Shop," for example, reveals his desire to empower his community and challenge racial discrimination. In a time when racial tensions were high, the establishment of such a business was a bold statement of solidarity and resistance. It provided a safe haven where individuals from different racial backgrounds could come together, fostering a sense of unity within the community.

Furthermore, Asbury's rise to prominence in the political sphere sheds light on the complexities of race and identity. Despite facing prejudice, he navigates the predominantly white world of politics with cunning and determination.

Judge Davis, an influential white judge and friend of Asbury, expresses admiration for Asbury's intelligence and abilities, suggesting that if Asbury were white, he would be celebrated and given opportunities for success, such as being elected to the Senate.

However, because Asbury is Black, Judge Davis implies that society discriminates against individuals like him, sending them to prison instead of allowing them to achieve higher positions of power.

"Asbury," he said, "you are—you are—well, you ought to be white, that’s all. When we find a black man like you, we send him to State’s prison. If you were white, you’d go to the Senate."

Dunbar portrays how oppression limits the opportunities available to African Americans based solely on their race. Asbury's experiences mirror the challenges faced by African Americans who wish to succeed in a racially divided society.

"The Scapegoat" sheds light on how race continues to shape individual lives and communities while also showcasing the resilience and determination of marginalized groups in overcoming obstacles.