Publisher condemns ‘violent’ use of Franklin the Turtle after Hegseth’s boat strike post
NegativeWorld Affairs
- U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced backlash after posting a meme on social media that depicted Franklin the Turtle, a beloved children's character, aiming a rocket launcher at boats, which drew condemnation from the character's Canadian publisher. The post, which included a mocked book cover titled 'Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists,' sparked outrage over its violent imagery.
- The condemnation from the publisher highlights concerns regarding the appropriateness of using children's characters in violent contexts, particularly by a high-ranking official like Hegseth. This incident raises questions about the impact of such portrayals on public perception and the responsibilities of public figures.
- This controversy occurs against a backdrop of ongoing scrutiny of Hegseth's military directives and actions, including allegations of ordering lethal strikes against alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean. The juxtaposition of a children's character with military violence reflects broader societal debates about the normalization of violence and the ethical implications of military engagement.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System
