
SNL mocks Trump in 'White Potus' spoof amid controversial tariff rollout
SNL took aim at former President Donald Trump in a hilarious "White Potus" spoof, parodying the hit show White Lotus in the wake of the controversial season finale. The pre-taped sketch aired on the April 12 episode, drawing attention to Trump's tumultuous tariff rollout, which has even left some of his supporters skeptical.
The sketch begins with Chloe Fineman playing Melania Trump, adopting a southern accent reminiscent of White Lotus character Victoria Ratliff, portrayed by Parker Posey. In the sketch, Melania is seen trying to get her husband's attention as he drifts into his own world before dinner. James Austin Johnson takes on Trump's role, with the character mirroring the struggles of Timothy Ratliff, a financially troubled character from the show's third season.
The family dinner scene showcases a comedic back-and-forth as Melania, in a rambling speech, tells Trump that America will always be a 'rich and powerful nation.' Meanwhile, Trump reads a headline saying, 'Trump triggers worldwide recession,' adding to the family's growing financial discomfort.
The sketch humorously features Lizzo as Natasha Rothwell's Belinda from White Lotus, who checks her bank account and laments, 'There's $5 million in my bank account. It was $20 million last week!' The skit highlights the exaggerated effects of Trump's tariff policies, as financial strain is felt across the family.
As the sketch reaches its climax, Trump sleepwalks toward a gun while pointing it at Uncle Sam, who pleads for his life. The gunfire represents the imposition of a 500% tariff on China. Just before pulling the trigger, Trump is awoken by Vladimir Putin, portrayed by Beck Bennett, in a surprising twist.
In a further jab, SNL parodied Trump's absurd comments, showing him comparing his tariff plan to the resurrection of Jesus. 'The stock market did a Jesus. It died, then on the third day, it was risen... and then on the fourth day, it died again,' he declares.
This satirical portrayal follows Trump's recent announcement that he would exempt smartphones and computers from his 145% tariff on Chinese goods, illustrating the ongoing political drama surrounding his economic policies. The sketch offered plenty of material for SNL to play with, delivering a comedic commentary on Trump's controversial tariff strategies.

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Business Recorder
an hour ago
- Business Recorder
China's angry rebuttal to Trump's tariff Tsunami
My reading of China has always been of a country that is sagacious, forgiving and accommodating—an entity flowing naturally through history, shaped by the burden and blessing of over 5,000 years of civilizational legacy. China has long carried the unique distinction of never being an occupying force in the historical sense, never driven by the imperial ambition to rule the world. Despite holding immense power at different junctures in history, China refrained from conquest. Its Great Wall was built not as a launchpad for outward domination, but as a safeguard for inward integration. This tradition of strategic restraint and internal focus has morphed into the philosophical foundation of President Xi Jinping's economic and diplomatic agenda in the 21st century. China's foreign policy, even amid rising global tensions, has maintained its emphasis on win-win cooperation, mutual growth, and infrastructural diplomacy. It does not promote regime change, nor does it meddle in the internal politics of other nations. China's strength lies in its ability to uplift weaker economies through massive infrastructure projects, energy support, port development, and institutional capacity-building. These efforts are not intended to dominate but to elevate. That is the spirit of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), offering struggling nations an alternative model of growth without conditionalities that mirror neo-colonialism. In contrast, the Trump administration's aggressive 'America First' policy has been marked by an unrelenting tariff war, often in violation of international norms, bilateral treaties, and the principles of the World Trade Organization (WTO). These tariffs were not just protectionist; they were unilateral assaults on the interconnected architecture of the global economy. By weaponizing tariffs, Trump sought to coerce trading partners and reconfigure supply chains through brute economic power. However, in doing so, the administration not only antagonized allies and adversaries alike but also disrupted global trade balances, supply chains, and investor confidence. The global economy is an ecosystem. If one part of it is harmed, the ripple effects are felt across continents. In this context, the Trump tariffs didn't just target China—they undermined the very structure of global trade and collaboration. The United States, which once championed free trade, suddenly became its greatest disruptor. This led to global uncertainty, inflation in various sectors, and rising consumer prices within the United States itself. In response to this unprecedented tariff regime, China issued its strongest economic and diplomatic rebuttal to date. Breaking from its traditional quiet diplomacy, Beijing made it unequivocally clear that it would not succumb to unilateral economic bullying. For the first time, Chinese officials accused the United States of distorting international trade norms and harming global economic recovery. China argued that the United States had, in fact, been the largest beneficiary of globalization. With a massive 25% share in world trade, the US economic dominance was built on the very trade practices it was now dismantling. China emphasized that it did not initiate the trade war but would not hesitate to defend its interests. It pledged to open up its economy further, reduce tariffs, and increase imports—not out of compulsion, but to demonstrate its commitment to global cooperation. This stands in sharp contrast to the inward-looking, protectionist tendencies of the Trump administration. China's response was calm but resolute. It promised to uphold the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits. It reaffirmed its belief in genuine multilateralism, rejecting all forms of unilateralism and economic coercion. China stood firmly in support of the international system with the United Nations at its core and the multilateral trading system with the WTO at its foundation. China's declaration also emphasized that the vast majority of nations still believed in fairness, justice, and the rule of international law. These countries, it argued, would eventually stand on the right side of history—not because of allegiance to any one superpower, but because equity must triumph over hegemony. Trump, meanwhile, sought to justify the economic fallout from his tariff blitzkrieg by promising future investments totaling $7 trillion. However, even he admitted that the US stock market had lost nearly $6 trillion in value within days. While the theoretical future investment may or may not materialize over four to five years, the immediate damage was undeniable. The American consumer bore the brunt of the tariffs, with increased prices on everything from electronics to household goods. What Trump failed to recognize—or perhaps chose to ignore—is that tariffs on imports function as a hidden tax on American citizens. When tariffs are levied on goods from China or any other country, US importers pass those costs onto retailers, who in turn pass them onto consumers. So, while the US Treasury may gain in the short term from tariff revenues, it is ultimately the American people who pay the price. This disconnect between political rhetoric and economic reality triggered public backlash. Demonstrations erupted across the United States, not just from ideological opponents of Trump but from ordinary citizens suffering from inflation and job insecurity. The symbols associated with Trump's protectionist agenda—banners, flags, and campaign props—became the targets of public outrage, a visible expression of disillusionment with failed promises and mounting hardship. The damage was not just economic; it was reputational. America's standing as a leader of the free world, a promoter of open markets and democratic values, was called into question. The aggressive imposition of tariffs on allies and adversaries alike sent a message that America was retreating from the world stage, abandoning its commitments, and undermining its credibility. What is the via media in this escalating trade conflict? The answer lies in dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect. Instead of unilaterally imposing tariffs, the United States must return to the table and engage its partners through negotiation, evidence-based studies, and inclusive policy-making. Any trade policy that causes disproportionate harm to a segment of the global population—be it American or foreign—is inherently flawed. Tariffs should be the last resort, not the first weapon of choice. They must be evaluated based on who truly benefits and who bears the cost. If the people of both nations stand to gain, then policy adjustments may be justified. But if tariffs disproportionately hurt consumers, strain diplomatic ties, and fracture global supply chains, then they are not only counterproductive but dangerous. The world today demands cooperation over confrontation. It requires strategic empathy rather than economic nationalism. China's model of infrastructure-led diplomacy and economic integration may not be perfect, but it offers an alternative vision to brute-force protectionism. A world driven by consultation and shared prosperity is far more stable than one governed by unilateral decrees and economic coercion. The battle between tariff wars and trade cooperation is not just a contest of policies—it is a contest of visions. The world must choose between retreating into silos or building bridges across continents. In this defining moment, China's calm and strategic response to Trump's aggressive tariffs may well mark a turning point in the global order. It is a call for equity—not hegemony. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025


Business Recorder
an hour ago
- Business Recorder
Power sector subsidy slashed by 13pc
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has reduced subsidy for power sector by 13 percent to Rs 1.036 trillion for FY 2025-26 from Rs 1.190 trillion for FY 2024-25. According to federal budget documents, total subsidies decreased by 14 percent – from the revised estimates of Rs 1.378.489 trillion for FY 2024-25 to Rs 1.186.036 trillion for FY 2025-26. The amount of subsidy for Inter-Disco tariff differential has been slashed to Rs 249.136 billion for 2025-26 from allocation of Rs 276 billion for FY 2024-25, showing a reduction of 9.8 per cent. Subsidy for tariff differential to agritubewells in Balochistan will be Rs 4 billion in 2025-26 from Rs 9.5 billion in 2024-25. Power tariff hike: govt reaches 'understanding' with IMF The amount of subsidies for merged districts of KP erstwhile FATA has been reduced over 38 per cent to Rs 40 billion for FY 2025-26 from Rs 65 billion for FY 2024-25. The government has also slashed the amount of subsidy for AJK by 31.5 per cent to Rs 74 billion for 2025-26 from Rs 108 billion for FY 2024-25. The amount under Pakistan Energy Resolving Fund (PERA) will remain at Rs 48 billion for FY 2025-26 like FY 2024-25. This amount is meant to pay Rs 5 billion every month to Chinese IPPs established under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). For K-Electric, the amount of subsidy has been reduced over 28 per cent to Rs 125 billion for FY 2025-26 from Rs 174 for the FY 2024-25, however, Rs 1 billion have been allocated as subsidy for agriculture tubewells in Balochistan for FY 2025-26 against Rs 500 million for FY 2024-25. The government budgeted Rs 95 billion to IPPs in FY 2025-26 against Rs 115 billion in revised estimates for the FY 2024-25, which implies that no amount had been allocated on the account at the time of announcement of budget 2024-25. And allocated Rs 400 billion subsidy for 2025-26 under the head of lump sum provision for power subsidy against revised Rs394 billion and actual allocation of Rs 509 billion for 2023-24. The purpose of this allocation has not been mentioned in the budget documents. The government earmarked Rs 1.200 billion as subsidy for petroleum for FY 2025-26, against budgeted amount of Rs 18.400 billion in 2023-24, of which Rs 1,200 billion will be as shortfall in guaranteed throughout of PEPCO, against Rs 2,400 billion for FY 2024-25. However, no amount has been allocated to meet shortfall to Asia Petroleum and domestic consumers through SNGPL (RLNG). For FY 2024-25, an amount of Rs 16 billion had been earmarked on these accounts. For Passco, Rs 20 billion have been earmarked for wheat reserve stock during FY 2025-26, of which Rs 14 billion will be meant for wheat reserve stock and Rs 6 billion for cost differential for sale of wheat in 2025-26. An amount of Rs 24 billion has been estimated for Industries and Production for FY 2025-26 against Rs 68 billion for FY 2024-25. Of this, Rs 9 billion has been earmarked for subsidy-incentive on electric vehicle scheme and Rs 15 billion for USC sugar subsidy/arrears. No amount has been allocated for PM's USC package and Ramzan package for 2025-26 though Rs 55 billion had been earmarked for FY 2024-25. The amount of subsidy under the head of other subsidies has been earmarked at Rs 104.7 billion for 2025-26 against actual allocation of Rs 75.012 billion and revised allocation of Rs 90.099 billion. Details of total amount of Rs 75.012 billion for other subsidies are as follows: (i) wheat to Gilgit Baltistan, Rs 20 billion;(ii) subsidy on import of urea fertilizer, Rs 15 billion; (iii) subsidy on NAYA Pakistan Housing Society, Rs 1 billion; (iv)mark-up subsidy and risk sharing scheme for farm mechanization/Kissan package, Rs7 billion; (vi) refinance and credit guaranteed scheme (SME Asaan Finance) Rs1 billion; (vii) subsidy for enhancing financing to SME sector Rs 2 billion; (viii) markup subsidy to support phasing out of the SBP's refinancing scheme, Rs 30 billion (ix) provision of 5 kms radius gas scheme Rs 5 billion; (x) EFS enhanced plan-Exim and related scheme Rs 5 billion; (xii) (markup subsidy on low cost housing Rs 5 billion; and (xiii) Metro Bus subsidy Rs 7.300 billion. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025


Express Tribune
6 hours ago
- Express Tribune
Newer world order in Trump era — and Pakistan
Listen to article After President Donald Trump's second coming to the Oval Office, the US ways, means and ends of foreign policy are witnessing a transformation. The evolving 'Newer World Order', though dynamic and transitory, needs to be understood. Deciphering President Trump's speeches, announcements, presidential orders, tweets and utterances of last five months, it can be concluded that "trade and tariffs" are the principle means of his interstate relations philosophy. He is well focused at realising his electioneering slogan 'Make America Great Again', for which he is trying to rejuvenate the US economy, bring FDI, reinvigorate the industrial sector, create more jobs, secure US homeland against crimes and illegal immigration, save on extra expenditure made overseas, shift responsibility of defence to self-help by partners and collect more tariffs on imports to reduce taxes on American citizens. His major worry appears to be the back-breaking US debt of trillions of dollars. This approach has been well reflected in his visit to the Middle East where he was successful in securing trillions of dollars of investments and billions of dollars of sales in defence, technology and aviation sectors. Trump portrays himself as anti-war, but perhaps he is for short military showdowns, trade wars and employment of economic coercion to attain his policy ends. Manifestation of this approach was also seen during the last month's Indian aggression against Pakistan, and Pakistan's effective and successful counter offensive. He has reiterated multiple times the role played by him and the US secretary of state in brokering the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. It is inferred that, during his presidency, US interstate relations shall be increasingly woven around trade and economy, rather than security. Trump desires to go down in the history as an American President who helped stop major conflicts in the world, and took his country out of colossal debt and deficit. Trump is likely to help bring peace in the Middle East and work for 'two-state solution' to realise his dream of 'Abraham Accords'. KSA and Turkey are also playing a role in his peace efforts. Lifting of sanctions on Syria, meeting with the Syrian president and expression of hope that a deal could be reached with Iran are positive indicators. Iran is expected to be pragmatic as well. President Trump is ardently working for a ceasefire in Ukraine, and get closer to Russia — perhaps to forestall Russia and China getting into an unmanageable alliance. Though a priority, containment of China may retake shape of 'Congagemnent' during his tenure. China making great strides in high-end technology would wish to maintain pace of its comprehensive rise by avoiding conflicts and developing a good working relationship with the US. However, to protect its interests, China is expected to remain assertive in all domains. The US is likely to continue trade with China, but on more favourable terms. Important fact is that finding an alternative to high quality Chinese products on cost effective rates for US consumers in short term may not be possible. China has been a trusted ally of Pakistan. The China-Pakistan friendship bond has gained newer heights during the May 2025 Pak-India War. Pakistan's grit and tenacity and its courageous, swift, skilful, comprehensive and lethal response to the Indian aggression must have impressed the friends and foes alike. At this point in time, Pakistan and China, their people and militaries are closer than ever before. China will continue to support Pakistan unequivocally. This relationship is likely to experience stress due to the enduring US-China competition. It is important that an understanding is developed in the western capitals that for Pakistan, in the absence of any alternative, the only choice for realising ends of its comprehensive 'National Security Policy' that is predicated on geo-economics, remains the People's Republic of China. The recent China-Pakistan-Afghanistan tripartite meeting and PM Shehbaz Sharif's visit to Turkiye, Iran and Azerbaijan — aimed at conveying gratitude for their support during the Indian aggression, reaffirming the closer relation and expanding the ties to make the mutually beneficial friendship even stronger — is a step in right direction. The warm welcome and pleasant exchanges reflect mutual desires to strengthen the exiting bonds. The second tripartite meeting held between Pakistan, Turkiye and Azerbaijan at Lachin in Azerbaijan further manifests the growing understanding between Pakistan and the regional countries. The PM and his delegation also visited Tajikistan to strengthen the bilateral cooperation in multifaceted areas. Russia and Pakistan are getting closer too, which is being seen as a very positive development. Pakistan has sent delegations to various countries of the world to forge an understanding in the comity of nations to communicate Pakistan's position on perpetuating Indian arrogance and aggressiveness as against Pakistan's desire for enduring peace and stability in the region. Pakistan has been making efforts to develop good relations with all the neighbours, including India. Unfortunately, Indian intransigence remained a hurdle. The impasse seems to have been broken by the short but intense May 2025 War, imposed on Pakistan by the rash Indian leadership, and the ceasefire sought by India through the US. President Trump has expressed his willingness to help resolve the Kashmir dispute by convening a Pakistan-India meeting in some third country — something that is being considered a silver lining. The global milieu engenders quest to forge peace and enhance trade instead of war. Pakistan should continue trying to avoid conflicts and have good relations with all the countries, including India. The US president's promise of mediation must be pursued for resolution of the Kashmir dispute, reversal of Indian announcement of holding IWT in abeyance and restoration of special status of IIOJK. Very good relations with China, the US, the UK, EU, Gulf states, Turkiye, Afghanistan and Iran warrant added focus by Pakistan. Connectivity is the way forward for mutually beneficial socio-economic development and societal emancipation.