The Canadian publisher behind the beloved children's book series "Franklin" has issued a stern rebuke to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who posted a meme on his X account featuring the iconic turtle Franklin blowing up an apparent drug boat.
In response, Kids Can Press, which publishes the popular picture books, stated that they "strongly condemn any denigrating, violent, or unauthorized use of Franklin's name or image," as it directly contradicts the values of kindness, empathy, and inclusivity that the character represents.
The statement from Kids Can Press comes amid growing controversy over Hegseth's campaign to carry out boat strikes in South America, with some questioning whether these actions constitute a war crime under international law. The Pentagon has maintained that the strikes comply with domestic and foreign laws, but Democrats have argued that they target wounded survivors who pose no further threat.
Hegseth's post on social media drew criticism from several lawmakers, including Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, who called it "not a serious person." Hegseth defended his actions in a statement posted later, saying he had full confidence in Adm. Frank Bradley and the combat decisions made during the September 2 operation.
The controversy highlights the growing divide between the Trump administration's stance on national security and human rights. As one Democrat noted, "He is in the national command authority for nuclear weapons, and last night he's putting out, on the internet, turtles with rocket-propelled grenades."
In response, Kids Can Press, which publishes the popular picture books, stated that they "strongly condemn any denigrating, violent, or unauthorized use of Franklin's name or image," as it directly contradicts the values of kindness, empathy, and inclusivity that the character represents.
The statement from Kids Can Press comes amid growing controversy over Hegseth's campaign to carry out boat strikes in South America, with some questioning whether these actions constitute a war crime under international law. The Pentagon has maintained that the strikes comply with domestic and foreign laws, but Democrats have argued that they target wounded survivors who pose no further threat.
Hegseth's post on social media drew criticism from several lawmakers, including Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, who called it "not a serious person." Hegseth defended his actions in a statement posted later, saying he had full confidence in Adm. Frank Bradley and the combat decisions made during the September 2 operation.
The controversy highlights the growing divide between the Trump administration's stance on national security and human rights. As one Democrat noted, "He is in the national command authority for nuclear weapons, and last night he's putting out, on the internet, turtles with rocket-propelled grenades."
. I mean, come on, who thought that was a good idea? Kids Can Press is totally right to call him out on it - Franklin's all about spreading kindness and positivity, not violence and destruction.
. I don't think we should be using our military to target wounded survivors who are just trying to live their lives. It's all about finding a balance between national security and human rights, you know?
. And now Democrats are questioning his judgment, which is pretty fair game if you ask me 
. I guess this just goes to show that there's still some room for growth in terms of understanding what it means to be a responsible leader...
... I mean, come on, a kids' book character being used to glorify violence? It’s just not right 
. Kids Can Press is totally in the right here, though – Franklin is all about spreading love and kindness, not blowing things up 
. The fact that Hegseth didn’t even understand what he was getting himself into says a lot about him 
. It’s funny how some people still don’t get it when it comes to representing your values in public 
. Can we please just focus on protecting our environment and the future of our kids instead? 
... like, can't people just be respectful for once? 
We're better than this. Can't we all just get along and respect each other's differences? 