Trump administration policies on trade and spending have contributed to higher prices for everyday goods. American households face increased costs at stores as tariffs and other measures take effect. The cartoon argues these policies prioritize other goals over consumer welfare and leave families paying more.
The cartoon depicts a massive DOGE figure wielding chainsaws while two seniors labeled Social and Security express concern on a sidewalk. Text on the wall recites an updated version of the 'First they came' poem listing USAID, FBI, NOAA, FEMA and the Department of Education. The seniors reply that a nice man promised to care for them. The image responds to 2025 efforts by the Department of Government Efficiency to reduce federal agencies and spending.
