The Risks of Trump’s Trade Policy in Today’s World
April 5, 2025
In a world already facing challenges from economic recovery and international tensions, President Trump’s trade policies are adding more uncertainty and risk. His recent move to pause tariffs on some countries while sharply increasing them on China highlights a short-sighted strategy that could have long-lasting negative effects.
At a time when people are still recovering from the economic impacts of the pandemic, Trump’s reliance on tariffs to negotiate trade deals often makes everyday goods more expensive for American families. This isn’t just about protecting jobs; it’s about making life harder for those who are already struggling with rising costs.
Markets thrive on stability, but Trump’s unpredictable trade decisions create confusion and insecurity. While there may be some immediate benefits, like temporary stock market boosts, the constant changes can undermine long-term economic growth when the global economy is already on shaky ground.
Taking a tough stance on China with such high tariffs might seem strong, but it risks sparking a trade war that can hurt both countries and strain relationships with other trading partners. Instead of leading, the U.S. under Trump’s policies is encouraging other countries to find new partners and solutions that don’t rely on American markets.
Trump’s approach also ignores how interconnected our world is. Trade isn’t a win-lose situation; it’s about cooperation and mutual benefit. By treating it like a competition where only one side can succeed, Trump fosters unnecessary conflict and retaliation, which only harms everyone involved.
In short, Trump’s trade policies are not just misguided—they’re risky for the U.S. and the world. As we face ongoing global challenges, it’s crucial to work collaboratively and focus on building strong, reliable trade relationships. The stakes are too high to keep moving in a direction filled with uncertainty and potential conflict. The global community and American citizens deserve a more stable and cooperative approach.
A humiliating U-Turn for Trump, and he has no clue
It’s been quite the rollercoaster ride with Trump’s trade moves, hasn’t it? The “America First” idea sounded like a bold step, but it’s turned into a chaotic spectacle, wiping out trillions from the global economy and leaving everyone in a state of panic. His sudden U-turn is like watching a reality show where the plot twists are as predictable as they are bewildering.
Trust in Trump? According to his world view, the global trade system—the very one the U.S. has nurtured for decades—has, according to the President, somehow morphed into a corrupt scheme designed to rip off America. It’s like he’s convinced the world is full of scoundrels, with nations just waiting to take advantage of the U.S. His slights against individual countries, like calling Canada nasty or suggesting it and Greenland should be part of the U.S., come across as bizarre and out of touch.
It’s as if he believes that many of these countries owe their existence to the U.S. and its generosity, which just adds another layer to this perplexing narrative. And yet, here we are, not even 100 days into his presidency, and we’re already dealing with the fallout of a spectacular and escalating trade war with China. The consequences could reach far beyond trade, potentially destabilizing things even more.
It’s hard not to feel like we’re all just holding on because of one man’s lunacy, hoping for some stability to return. Fun Fact! As of April 10, 2025, it’s been 3,585 days since Donald Trump announced his candidacy for the presidency on that memorable escalator ride on June 16, 2015. Not a day has gone by without a single moment without Trump. Time flies, doesn’t it?
Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 10, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!
Trump Tariff Backfire | April 10, 2025: https://youtu.be/PM8a_nvaDcM
Harper’s Comeback: A Rallying Cry or Risky Rewind?
February 15, 2025
In a strategic move that highlights the ongoing influence of the Reform wing within the Conservative Party, Stephen Harper has re-entered the political spotlight, endorsing Pierre Poilievre in a bid to rejuvenate a sagging campaign. Harper’s recent appearance at a rally in Edmonton, along with Preston Manning’s warnings about another Liberal government, underscores a concerted effort to appeal to the party’s Western base and its historical roots in the Reform movement.
However, this reliance on former leaders from the Reform side may resonate well in Alberta and other Western provinces, where the Reform legacy still holds significant sway, but it offers little to inspire enthusiasm beyond these regions. The absence of strong representation from the Progressive Conservative faction within the current Conservative Party under Poilievre reflects a notable shift in the party’s identity, leaving some Progressive Conservatives feeling alienated.
Harper’s endorsement, as reported by Laura Stone in The Globe and Mail, frames Canada’s current challenges as a result of Liberal policies rather than external factors like the Trump administration. This narrative aims to position Poilievre as the leader who can steer Canada in a new direction. However, as Ryan Tumilty’s article in The Toronto Star illustrates, Harper’s criticism of Mark Carney—suggesting that Carney overstated his role during the 2008 financial crisis—highlights a strategic attempt to bolster the Conservative narrative at the potential cost of alienating centrists who value Carney’s economic expertise.
Preston Manning’s recent involvement, issuing warnings about the consequences of another Liberal government, further emphasizes the Reform wing’s influence. Yet, this approach may struggle to galvanize support among voters who align more closely with the Progressive Conservative tradition. Many of these voters may find themselves more inclined to support a candidate like Carney, who embodies a moderate, centrist approach that aligns with their values.
By Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday August 24, 2013
Reader comments from the articles provide additional insight, revealling skepticism about Harper’s and Poilievre’s appeal beyond the core Reform supporters. The comments reflect a polarized perspective, with some viewing Harper’s return as a reminder of past controversies and others questioning Poilievre’s ability to unify the country.
To succeed on a national scale, the Conservative Party under Poilievre must find a way to bridge these internal divides and offer a platform that resonates with a broader Canadian electorate. Without this balance, the party risks limiting its appeal to its traditional strongholds, making it challenging to expand its reach beyond the Western provinces. The path forward requires not just energizing the base but also embracing a more inclusive and pragmatic approach that can win the confidence of centrists across the country.
Bring Out Your Fossils
As one observes the current landscape of Canadian politics, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Pierre Poilievre is facing significant challenges, not just from the electorate, but from within his own party. The divisions within the Conservative Party are glaring, raising a critical question: Is this the type of leader Canada truly wants?
It’s no secret he doesn’t have a lot of allies in his party that he can call close friends.
Just as an aside, are we tired yet of seeing/hearing those grating political ads about solid protective arms and borders wrapping proud flags and brave soldiers?
Poilievre’s struggles to unify his party are a red flag. If he can’t foster cohesion among his own members, how can he possibly hope to unite a diverse nation? His inability to see eye to eye with key provincial leaders such as Danielle Smith in Alberta, who is vocal about Western frustrations, further highlights a disconnect that is hard to ignore. Meanwhile, his lack of alignment with Doug Ford’s Big Blue Machine in Ontario and differing perspectives with Tim Houston in Nova Scotia only underscore the ideological rifts within the party.
This disunity is further highlighted by the recent rally, where he felt the need to enlist his old boss Stephen Harper, a rejected figure from the past, to lend his voice. It’s almost as if he’s trying to resurrect a bygone era to compensate for a lack of contemporary leadership. Moreover, Preston Manning’s re-emergence from private life to express his concerns is telling. It signals a deeper sense of desperation within the party. The ghosts of the Reform Party are making a haunting appearance, and it seems like a last-ditch effort to rally the base. Yet, these figures from the past may not resonate with today’s broader electorate.
The situation begs the question: Can a leader mired in internal conflict and reliant on past figures truly guide Canada forward? It’s a moment of reflection not just for the Conservative Party but for the country as a whole. As we move forward, we must consider whether a leader with such divisive challenges is equipped to handle the complexities of leading an entire nation.
Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 9, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!
In recent weeks, the political landscape in Canada has been marked by a troubling resurgence of separatist rhetoric emanating from Western Canada, particularly from figures like Preston Manning. His desperate warning that a victory for Mark Carney’s Liberals would lead to the breakup of Canada is not only alarmist but also counterproductive. It threatens to exacerbate divisions at a time when national unity is more critical than ever.
Manning’s perspective, which positions Western separation as a legitimate response to perceived grievances, fails to recognize the complex realities faced by all Canadians. While it is essential to acknowledge the frustrations of those in Alberta and Saskatchewan—regions that have long felt overlooked by federal policies—resorting to threats of secession is not a constructive solution. Such extreme viewpoints only serve to polarize discussions and undermine the collaborative spirit necessary for addressing shared challenges.
December 2, 2022
However, dismissing Manning’s concerns outright ignores a significant truth: the fossil fuel sector in Western Canada is not just an economic powerhouse; it is a lifeline for many communities. The realities of shifting global energy dynamics and the impacts of U.S. President Donald Trump’s reckless economic policies have created uncertainty that can no longer be overlooked. The tariffs and trade tensions he has instigated have put pressure on Canadian industries, particularly those heavily reliant on fossil fuels.
As we navigate these turbulent waters, it is crucial to strike a balance between addressing environmental imperatives and safeguarding the livelihoods of those dependent on fossil fuel industries. The call for an immediate end to fossil fuel reliance without a viable transition plan risks not only economic devastation but also the loss of social cohesion in communities that have built their identities around these sectors.
Danielle Smith’s alignment with Trump and her provocative stance on Alberta’s autonomy further complicate this already fraught landscape. While she champions the voices of those who feel marginalized, her approach often mirrors the divisive rhetoric that only deepens the chasm between regions. It is essential to understand that unity cannot be built on fear or threats; rather, it requires dialogue, compromise, and a commitment to finding common ground.
What is needed now is a comprehensive and inclusive discussion that brings together various stakeholders—politicians, industry leaders, environmental advocates, and community members—to explore pathways toward a sustainable energy future that respects the economic realities of Western Canada. This means investing in green technology and transition strategies that not only address climate change but also provide new opportunities for workers in the fossil fuel sector.
In the face of daunting challenges posed by external forces, Canada must remain steadfast in its commitment to unity. We cannot allow the desperate warnings of figures like Manning to derail the essential conversations about how to move forward together. Instead, let us focus on building a resilient nation that acknowledges regional concerns while striving for a sustainable and inclusive future.
The road ahead may be rocky, but by fostering understanding and collaboration, Canada can navigate these rough seas and emerge stronger, united in our diversity and shared purpose. It is time to reject divisive rhetoric and work collectively toward a future that honours both our environmental responsibilities and our economic realities.
Looking For a Strong Manning-Date
As someone who closely follows elections, I’ve always found polls to be incredibly useful in gauging the political climate and predicting election outcomes. Over the past two elections, I’ve made it a point to draw on polls at least once in editorial during each campaign. It’s fascinating to look back and see how the parties were faring just weeks before election day.
During Justin Trudeau’s tenure, the polls often depicted a flatline between the two main parties, leading to somewhat predictable outcomes and the formation of minority governments. This trend seemed to reflect a broader lack of trust and confidence among Canadians towards both the Liberals and Conservatives. Consequently, we’ve experienced years of weak governance, with Trudeau’s position becoming increasingly fragile with each passing election since 2015.
The polls have not been kind to the Liberals under Trudeau in recent years, while the Conservatives, under Pierre Poilievre, have seen astronomical support. However, there’s an old saying about peaking too early, and that seems to be the case for Poilievre. The pendulum of political favour has swung, but rather than benefiting the Conservatives, it appears to have favoured centrists, especially with Mark Carney now leading the Liberal Party.
If there ever was a need for renewed confidence and unity, it is now, especially at a time when global security and economic order are being shaken. A majority government is needed, and the right person to head it is the reasonable, calm, and somewhat boring father figure, Mark Carney. He stands in contrast to Pierre Poilievre, who, with his petulant and angry demeanour, is neither a centrist nor a uniter.
While I sympathize with Conservatives who express frustration with the Liberals, it’s clear that the pendulum has indeed swung toward a more centrist approach. Carney’s leadership offers a new perspective and potential for renewed confidence among Canadians. As we approach the next election, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics play out and what the polls will reveal in the final stretch.
Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 7, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!
This week has been a whirlwind of political drama and economic upheaval, with the shadow of Donald Trump once again dominating Canadian politics. From trade tensions to allegations of foreign interference, each day unveiled new layers of complexity in the political landscape. As always, I hope my editorial cartoons served as a mirror, reflecting the craziness and challenges of a rapidly shifting global order. Join me as we navigate through the week’s events, summarizing the key themes and messages that emerged over the past seven days.
Monday March 31, 2025 “Re-run of the week”
As we entered the second week of the 2025 Federal Election, one might expect my focus in editorial cartoons to be entirely consumed by it. However, in an era that Donald Trump labels the “new Golden Age for America” and where he insists that “America is Back,” this week was marked by “Liberation Day.” Retiring MP Charlie Angus aptly noted that the Normandy landings, commonly known as D-Day, on June 6, 1944, rightfully deserve this designation, as they signified the beginning of the Allied liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation. Any president from the past 70 years, including Trump, should recognize this historical significance. Yet, it is clear that history holds little importance for him, just as alliances seem to have lost their meaning. Meanwhile, the world watched as he threatened punitive measures against nearly every nation—except for Russia, North Korea, Iran, and Cuba—for what he describes as “Ripping off America.”
March 31, 2025
Given the prominence of this theme throughout the week, I decided to dedicate Monday to releasing part two of a playing card I had sketched the previous week. This time, I created a corresponding card featuring Doug Ford and Mark Carney, representing a concept of unity. With Smith raising the prospect of Alberta’s separation, this pairing felt particularly fitting. In a Globe & Mail piece this week, former Reform relic Preston Manning warned that a Carney premiership risks the “breakup of Canada,” using dramatic rhetoric about Western secession that borders on fear-mongering rather than proposing constructive solutions. He might be onto something with his vision of the future, particularly given the strong presence of like-minded “drill baby drill” maple MAGA supporters. However, his stance came across as somewhat desperate, and considering Poilievre’s subsequent distancing from it later in the week, it seems less than beneficial.
April 2, 2025
Tuesday April 1, 2025 “Fire and Fury in the North”
Speaking of desperation, conspiracy theories reared their ugly heads from right field in these early days, aiming to undermine the Liberals’ growing lead over the Conservatives. Notably, two theories targeted Carney: one involved a legitimate old group photograph of him with Ghislaine Maxwell, while the other was an AI-generated fake depicting them on a beach alongside Tom Hanks, of all people. Additionally, a fabricated claim alleged that Carney had plagiarized his doctoral thesis from Oxford, but this was quickly debunked. These theories fizzled out within days, yet the influence of Donald Trump on Canadian politics loomed large, with his chaotic persona portrayed as a fire-breathing figure unleashing “LIBERATION DAY!” Meanwhile, Pierre Poilievre stood engulfed in flames labelled “CANADA FIRST,” facing a pivotal decision amid escalating trade tensions. As his campaign struggles with misinformation surrounding Carney, the question of leadership clarity remains pressing, though there is a glimmer of hope that voters may become more discerning in distinguishing fact from fiction.
April 2, 2025
Wednesday April 2, 2025 “Dragons and Decisions”
The focus now turns to Mark Carney, who stands resolutely behind Paul Chiang before Chiang resigns amid controversies that underscore the Liberal Party’s perceived indecisiveness. This moment presents a much-needed opportunity for the Conservatives, reminding the public of the Liberals’ consistent detachment from pressing issues, a legacy of Trudeau’s leadership that demonstrates Carney’s Liberals are no different in their tone-deafness. The cartoon’s dragon, labelled “INTERFERENCE,” symbolizes the urgent concern of foreign meddling, particularly from China. This incident brings back discussions about the importance of honesty and strong leadership, highlighting the need to respond more effectively to outside influences as the election campaign heats up. Carney’s misstep is a costly blunder for a rookie politician.
April 3, 2025
Thursday April 3, 2025 “Termination Day Takes Flight”
A chunk of the U.S. has been metaphorically launched into the atmosphere, marking what some have called “LIBERATION DAY,” while Ontario Premier Doug Ford has labelled it “Termination Day,” reflecting the intense backlash against these policies. As the world watches with growing concern, the potential economic consequences of isolationist strategies are becoming increasingly evident. The Trump administration made its announcements just after the markets closed at 4 PM, and by my 5 PM deadline, the metaphorical ink of this cartoon was drying as the markets plummeted to record lows on Thursday and continued to falter on Friday. Trump downplayed the situation, likening it to a patient recovering from surgery, but the rising anxiety in global markets reveals the chaos his decisions are creating, leaving allies questioning their loyalties. On the Tonight Show, Jimmy Fallon summarized the day’s fallout with an impression of Trump, declaring, “We’ll make America wealthy again like it was at the start of my presidency.”
April 4, 2025
Friday April 4, 2025 “Factories and Folly”
As the week unfolds, the cartoon critiques the oversimplified idea of reviving American manufacturing. The striking contrast between the luxurious Mar-a-Lago and the harsh reality of factories underscores the complexities surrounding Trump’s trade policies. The push to bring jobs back home, alongside the rise of automation, raises questions about the practicality of a nostalgic return to manufacturing in the U.S. Dissenting voices within his own party are starting to emerge, challenging the effectiveness of tariffs and their long-term economic consequences. Libertarian GOP Senator Rand Paul provided a historical perspective on tariffs, pointing out their detrimental effects: “Tariffs have led to political decimation,” Paul noted. “When [former President William] McKinley imposed tariffs in 1890, the party lost 50 percent of their seats in the national election. Similarly, after the Smoot-Hawley tariff in the early 1930s, we lost control of the House and Senate for 60 years. They’re not only economically harmful but politically damaging as well.” This relentless pursuit of wealth, often disregarding human lives and the regulations meant to protect our environment, echoes the dangers of unchecked capitalism, reminiscent of the nightmare scenario of Pottersville that George Bailey encounters in “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
April 5, 2025
Saturday April 5, 2025 “A Hermit Kingdom in the Making”
The week culminates in a portrayal of Uncle Sam posting a coming soon billboard for “LIBERATION DAY,” much to the concern of Kim Jong Un. As the U.S. navigates a path of economic self-reliance, the implications for global trade and alliances become more pronounced. The contrast between Americans’ vibrant global presence and the administration’s insular policies raises questions about the future of America’s role on the world stage. Are we witnessing a fleeting phase of isolation, or a new era of self-imposed seclusion?
Reconciling the complex emotions surrounding the realities of Trump’s long-discussed grand plan is no easy task. On one hand, there’s a fascination with the audacity of a single individual determined to reshape the world’s largest economy, regardless of whether the scheme is deemed insane. On the other hand, there’s a sense of betrayal as Canada, traditionally a close ally, finds itself belittled and labelled as a nation of rip-off artists, along with every other nation on the planet.
Published in The Hamilton Spectator – September 9, 1939 by Ivan Russell Glassco. The illustration depicts Uncle Sam walking with his hands in his pockets, whistling a neutrality tune, which conveys a sense of backwardness or regression. The lower caption, “Whistling in the dark,” implies an attempt to stay optimistic or unconcerned despite the surrounding uncertainty or danger. This suggests that Uncle Sam is trying to maintain a façade of neutrality amid troubling global events, particularly reflecting the reluctance of the United States to engage directly in the escalating tensions leading to World War II.
As Canada navigates its identity amid these external pressures, there is hope that voters will rise above the clamour, seeking clarity and accountability from their leaders. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has starkly stated that the longstanding relationship with the United States—characterized by deep economic integration and close security and military cooperation—is over. He emphasizes that Canadians must “fundamentally reimagine our economy” in light of President Trump’s tariffs. These are sobering words that highlight the uncertain journey ahead.
One thing is clear: the political drama is far from over. Thank you for joining me on this reflective journey, and stay tuned for more insights next week!
Thank you to everyone who continues to subscribe to this weekly newsletter! I typically release posts every Saturday morning, offering a summary of the week through my editorial cartoons. My aim is to keep you informed without overwhelming you with constant notifications. Throughout the week, I also share daily ‘notes’ on my Substack, which enrich my weekly newsletters and feature animated versions of my daily cartoons.
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In a world once defined by the stability of Pax Americana, marked by strong alliances and economic interdependence, the policies of Donald Trump’s administration have ushered in a period of unprecedented economic transformation. This era is characterized not by isolationism or autarky, but by a redefinition of global relationships and economic strategies.
Under Trump, the U.S. has pursued aggressive tariff policies and a rhetoric that prioritizes “America First.” This approach, while not fully isolationist, has undeniably strained relationships with long-time allies, pushing nations like Canada to explore new economic opportunities beyond their traditional reliance on the United States.
As Sarah Neumann points out in Modern Diplomacy, the cessation of U.S. aid to global institutions under Trump’s leadership signals a retreat from the country’s historical role as a global leader. This shift has forced allies to reconsider their strategies, emphasizing diversification and resilience over dependency.
Canada, sharing the longest undefended border with the U.S., finds itself at a crossroads. As highlighted by Phoebe Maltz Bovy in The Globe and Mail, the “Buy Canadian” movement reflects a broader trend of seeking independence from American economic influence. This movement, driven by both pragmatic and political motivations, underscores a desire to assert Canadian sovereignty and economic stability in a world where U.S. policies have become unpredictable.
The ripple effects of Trump’s tariffs, as discussed in the context of U.S.-Canada trade relations, illustrate the broader challenges and opportunities faced by nations traditionally aligned with the U.S. While Canadian industries grapple with barriers to their largest market, they also recognize the potential in strengthening ties with other global partners, from the European Union to Asia-Pacific nations.
In this context, Mark Carney’s assertion that “the traditional relationship, marked by deep economic integration and close security cooperation, is effectively over,” captures the essence of this historic shift. He emphasizes the need for Canada to develop an economy less reliant on the U.S., suggesting the possibility of significant retaliatory measures. This marks a pivotal departure from the cooperative ties of the past, driven by current trade tensions and the broader geopolitical landscape shaped by Trump’s protectionist policies.
March 12, 2025
Mark Carney’s assertion that the era of Pax Americana is over resonates with the current global sentiment. The benefits that once flowed from a stable U.S.-led global order are being questioned as allies seek new pathways to economic prosperity. The end of this era does not equate to the U.S. becoming a “Hermit Kingdom,” but it does signify a shift from unilateral dominance to a multipolar world where countries must navigate complex trade dynamics and form new alliances.
This historic moment is not merely a challenge but an opportunity for nations to redefine their economic identities. As countries pivot away from reliance on U.S. economic policies, they are compelled to innovate, diversify, and build resilient economies capable of thriving in a globalized world.
Ultimately, the transformation initiated by Trump’s policies is a call to action for both the U.S. and its allies. It is a reminder that global stability and prosperity depend on collaboration, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace new economic paradigms. As we move forward, the lessons learned from this era will shape the future of international relations and economic strategies, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another in world history.
Of Hermits and Americans Abroad
It’s a curious spectacle, observing the dichotomy between the globe-trotting Americans—those lively voices that penetrate the serene settings of foreign lands—and the insular policies championed by Trump’s administration.
Americans certainly have a knack for making their presence known when travelling abroad, whether it’s through loud, animated discussions about their Wyoming ski adventures or their children’s prestigious colleges, all while donning backward baseball caps in upscale foreign bistros. Have you caught the latest series, “White Lotus?” The characters, affluent American guests at a luxurious resort in Thailand, seem blissfully unaware of their exotic surroundings. Parker Posey’s character hilariously refers to their location as “China or wherever,” encapsulating a certain obliviousness. This zest for global travel stands in stark contrast to the “America First” policies we’re witnessing, with Trump steering the nation towards economic self-reliance. His rhetoric, filled with trade accusations, paints a picture of a retreat towards a more isolated stance, reminiscent of a “Hermit Kingdom” in spirit.
From my Canadian perch, it’s amusing to note the irony: while some Americans gallivant across the globe, others seem content in their own backyard, possibly indifferent to the world beyond. It’s as if the nation is recalibrating its international engagements, prompting other countries to metaphorically move their poolside chairs to quieter spots.
Trump’s peculiar fondness for leaders like Kim Jong Un adds an amusing twist to this narrative, leaving me wondering about the long-term direction of the U.S. Are we witnessing a temporary phase of isolation, or is this a lasting transformation of America’s global role?
Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 5, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!
