Donald Trump maintains a detailed personal grooming regimen that includes assembling a comb-over, applying tangerine-toned makeup, concealing skin issues, using compression socks, and adjusting his suit. This preparation precedes his public remarks criticizing the appearances of others. The piece presents the contrast as evidence of inconsistent standards in political discourse.
Accusations of kleptocracy and self-dealing have followed Donald Trump through multiple phases of his political career. Critics point to patterns of self-promotion and waste in government dealings. The cartoon frames these issues as dead fish surfacing in a reflecting pool, with Trump depicted wearing a crown and clown makeup while an older observer looks on. The editorial position criticizes Trump as emblematic of corruption and grift.
On July 1 2026 Rick McKee depicts a clown-costumed Donald Trump raising balloon letters that spell AMERICA beneath the words HAPPY 250,TH. The figure wears a stars-and-stripes top hat and suit with a polka-dot bow tie and a yellow sign labels him THE BIRTHDAY CLOWN. The image marks the approach of the United States semiquincentennial on July 4 2026.
In a cartoon published September 29 2025 two girls converse in a sandbox about Halloween plans. The child on the right states she wanted to dress as a clown but her parents feared Trump would take it personally. The background includes playground equipment and greenery under a clear sky. The image references ongoing political tensions around the former and potential future president. Artist Christopher Weyant signed the work for the Boston Globe.
