The publisher of the Franklin the Turtle children’s book series is condemning Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for sharing a meme that depicts the character firing on drug boats.

On Sunday, Hegseth posted an image on X showing Franklin in a helicopter shooting at people in boats under the fake book title, “Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists.”

For your Christmas wish list… pic.twitter.com/pLXzg20SaL

— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) December 1, 2025

Kids Can Press, the Canadian publisher of the series, said the meme misrepresents the character and its values.

"Franklin the Turtle is a beloved Canadian icon who has inspired generations of children and stands for kindness, empathy and inclusivity," Kids Can Press said in a statement. "We strongly condemn any denigrating, violent, or unauthori

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