September 22, 2026
I’ve returned from a visit to Sacramento and the American Association of Editorial Cartoonists convention – a fascinating assortment of incredibly talented artists and journalists. The program was heavy, but enlightening – the effects of AI, consolidation of media, the pushing inward of corporate and government authoritarianism, especially over speech, cartoonists who overcame physical setbacks to continue their craft. It’s been ten years since I was at the last one (also in Sacto), it was an intimidating experience so I was like a mouse in the corner; this year was a friendly cacophony of banter, humor, and fellowship – and a lot of fun. The Association, in working with the changes to the art and environment, will soon be called the Association of Political Artists, and I sense a coalition of like-minded forces working together to fight for free speech. More on that to come.
The autumnal equinox has passed and as of today, the day will be three minutes shorter than yesterday. A subtle distinction, but an apt metaphor for not noticing change – until it changes. Next thing you know it’s dark at 4:30 (at least around here).
I recall the first term of the Orange Slob presidency, where folks cautioned that the outrageous conduct of both his followers and his leadership – “normalization” – was a common word.
Well, not only did some things become normal, but now the absurd has. Best described as a criminal enterprise, the administration now uses the same techniques as the mob – extortion, blackmail, threats, shakedowns for money and creating chaos to mask it all. Troubling, also, are the courtiers, charlatans, institutions and wannabee millionaires living in trailers that, with glazed eyes, think this is either a great thing happening to the country, or they want to just get their chunk of change out of the deal.
Yes, I can’t wait for the midterms. It may be exhilarating, scary, and yes, even violent. But it’s time to fight back. This is NOT normal, nor is it the United States of America. It’s time to reinvent ourselves back to the normal we once had – disagreement with dignity, ethics in conduct, and adherence to the rule of law, even if complicated and sometimes conflicting.
And may the perpetrators of this American debacle be in jail by January.
We can only hope.
A footnote: Some who have been sucked into the Trump cult may be remorseful, but not sure what to do. Do a good deed and recommend this site to your MAGA associate: leavingmaga.org
See ya next week; on a personal note, I’ve been thrust in the role of caregiver for someone close; it takes time and energy. I’ll get some cartoons out soon, maybe reflecting on caregiving.