Cartoon

Socialism, poverty shortages, sanctions
Photo credit: Ted Rall / WhoWhatWhy

Air Superiority

07/17/26

Why socialism bombs.

As President Trump and the GOP respond to the rising influence of Democratic Socialists by broadly labeling all Democrats as “communists,” a national conversation about socialism and communism has intensified. Conservatives often argue that “socialism never works,” pointing to economic struggles in various leftist-led nations. Critics counter that countries like Cuba and Venezuela, when pursuing socialist policies, have faced US-backed invasions, bombings, coups, and severe economic sanctions that exacerbated their challenges — raising the question of what aspects of these systems truly threaten capitalist interests.

While you’re here enjoying Ted Rall’s latest cartoon, please take a moment to read these articles on related topics: 

  • Ted Rall is an American columnist, syndicated editorial cartoonist, and author. His most recent book is "The Stringer," a graphic novel in which journalism meets "Breaking Bad."

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