The United States and China continue their contest for leadership in artificial intelligence development. Both nations invest heavily in research and infrastructure to secure advantages in computing power and applications. The competition carries implications for economic growth, military capabilities, and global standards. Recent policy moves on export controls and domestic incentives underscore the stakes. The editorial position frames the dynamic as a direct contest where surface cooperation masks deeper rivalry.
On August 6, 2026, the cartoon responds to lingering debates over COVID-19 policies by depicting former NIAID director Anthony Fauci and Chinese leader Xi Jinping toasting with the Grim Reaper. The image frames pandemic tools as shared instruments of control. The editorial position criticizes both figures for embracing fear-driven measures and information suppression.
China and Russia continue deepening economic cooperation amid Western sanctions on Moscow. Xi Jinping's government provides critical markets and technology to Russia while extracting favorable terms. The cartoon underscores the unequal power dynamic in their partnership.
The image shows Chinese leader Xi Jinping on a bamboo raft using cormorants to pursue a fish labeled Taiwan. This reflects ongoing tensions over the island's status and Chinese military activities in the region as of late 2025.
On April 15 2025 cartoonist Dave Whamond shows Chinese leader Xi Jinping facing US President Donald Trump across a card table. Trump declares he will fold because he lacks the cards. Xi responds that the contest is actually chess. The image references the continuing US China trade conflict including tariffs and critical mineral exports. Xi appears confident while Trump looks defeated from behind.
Jeff Koterba's cartoon shows a massive, angry dragon emblazoned with 'China' hovering threateningly over a chaotic roller coaster track. Below, a wide-eyed figure resembling Biden, topped with a stars-and-stripes hat, grips a cart labeled 'China Policy' as it dives steeply downward. The image captures the ups and downs of US foreign relations, with loops and drops symbolizing unpredictable diplomacy. Tags like Taiwan, Pelosi, and White House underscore the context of recent events, while the dragon represents Xi Jinping's influence. This straightforward satire nails the thrill-ride nature of Biden's approach, blending humor with pointed commentary on international tensions.
