Mother Jones illustrator Zina Saunders creates editorial animations riffing on the political news and current events of the week. In this week’s animation, Obama was hoping for a smooth road ahead, but after the latest battle over tax breaks for the rich, it’s clear the Republicans intend to continue to take their toll at every turn. And since you ask: Yes, Saunders does all her own awesome songs and cartoon voiceovers.—The Editors