The Sunday Comics that Will Make You Want to Run for Office

Yulia Chive

2 min read

·

05-01-2025

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The Sunday Comics That Will Make You Want to Run for Office (And Maybe Need Therapy Afterward)

For many, Sunday mornings mean leisurely brunches and catching up on the week's events. But for the politically minded, there's another ritual: diving into the world of Sunday comics, where satire, wit, and a healthy dose of cynicism offer a unique perspective on the political landscape. These aren't your average gag-a-day strips; these are the comics that might just inspire you (or terrify you) enough to run for office.

The Usual Suspects: Political Commentary at its Finest

Several long-running strips have consistently delivered incisive commentary on the absurdities of power.

• Doonesbury: Garry Trudeau's masterpiece has been a political barometer for decades. From the Vietnam War to the Trump presidency, Doonesbury skewers politicians and policies with surgical precision, often using recurring characters to highlight long-term political trends. Reading Doonesbury is like getting a masterclass in political satire, served with a side of existential dread.

• Pearls Before Swine: While not strictly political, Stephan Pastis's strip frequently features a cynical and power-hungry rat named Rat who often embodies the worst aspects of political ambition. Rat's schemes and manipulations are hilarious, but also chillingly familiar. He’s a reminder that even the most seemingly absurd power grabs have a basis in reality.

• Mallard Fillmore: This conservative strip offers a counterpoint to the often liberal leanings of other political comics. While its humor might not appeal to everyone, its consistent focus on specific political issues provides a different perspective on the debates shaping our world. It’s a reminder that political humor can be found across the spectrum.

Beyond the Big Names: Hidden Gems of Political Satire

Beyond the established giants, several lesser-known strips deserve recognition for their sharp wit and political commentary.

• Sherman's Lagoon: Jim Toomey's underwater world often features surprisingly relevant political allegories, cleverly woven into the seemingly lighthearted adventures of Sherman and his aquatic friends. The absurdity of the setting only serves to heighten the impact of the commentary.

• Pickles: While primarily a family-focused strip, Pickles occasionally tackles political themes, particularly those related to generational differences and societal change. Its subtle approach is often more effective than overt satire.

Why These Comics Inspire (or Discourage) a Run for Office

These comics offer a potent mix of humor and insightful commentary. They reveal:

• The Absurdity of Politics: The sheer silliness of political maneuvering is often highlighted, reminding us that even the most serious issues are subject to human fallibility and absurdity. This can be either inspiring (we can all do better!) or discouraging (is it even worth it?).

• The Importance of Critical Thinking: These strips encourage us to question authority and analyze the motivations behind political actions. This critical perspective is crucial for anyone entering the political arena.

• The Power of Satire: Satire, at its best, can be a powerful tool for social change. These comics demonstrate the effectiveness of using humor to expose hypocrisy and challenge the status quo.

The Takeaway: Laugh, Learn, and Maybe Run (or Hide)

Whether these comics inspire you to run for office or seek refuge in a secluded cabin, one thing is certain: they offer a unique and engaging way to engage with the complexities of the political world. So, next Sunday, grab your coffee, your newspaper, and prepare for a dose of political satire that's both hilarious and thought-provoking. Just don't blame us if you suddenly find yourself drafting a campaign platform.