‘You captured my heart’: Trump’s Valentine’s cards feature Maduro, jab at Rubio
South China Morning Post
by Tribune News ServiceFebruary 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US President Donald Trump marked Valentine’s Day by sharing a series of quirky greeting cards that showcased his self-praise, political jabs, and humor. The cards, posted on social media, highlighted Trump’s signature style of celebrating achievements while criticizing opponents, including Democrats and even members of his own administration.
One card featured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a handcuffed and blindfolded pose, referencing his capture earlier this year. The caption read, “You captured my heart,” humorously blending romantic sentiment with political rhetoric. Another card mocked Senator Chris Van Hollen’s meeting with an undocumented immigrant in El Salvador, sarcastically comparing Democrats’ support for illegal aliens to Trump’s own actions. A third card addressed Greenland, humorously suggesting a redefined relationship with the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
The cards reflected Trump’s tendency to blend personal branding with political messaging, using Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to both夸耀 his accomplishments and ridicule his adversaries. This approach not only showcased his playful yet pointed communication style but also highlighted the ongoing tensions between him and Democrats, particularly on immigration issues.
While some may view the cards as lighthearted entertainment, they serve a deeper political purpose. By celebrating his perceived victories and deriding opponents, Trump aims to rally supporters and reinforce divisions. The inclusion of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was notably absent from the Venezuela card despite being directly implicated in the situation, added an element of irony and critique within his own administration.
Ultimately, these Valentine’s Day cards are a testament to Trump’s unique approach to public relations and his ability to use even the most seemingly trivial occasions for political messaging. They underscore the ongoing dynamics between Trump, his supporters, and critics, making them a significant piece of the broader political landscape.
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/15/2026