A socialist apparel brand, Comrade Workwear, is planning to release a set of “Most Wanted CEOs” playing cards in the wake of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder. The founder, James Harr, announced the plans in a TikTok video, explaining that each suit would represent different industries, such as pharmaceuticals, retail, and finance. The cards would feature specific CEOs, with the goal of “bonding over our class position as workers” and educating people about the companies and their leaders.
Harr sparked controversy by describing the shooting as “good news” and calling the assassin a “f–king hero” in a separate TikTok video. He has since clarified that he meant the system, not individuals, was the target.
The playing cards are scheduled to be released soon and are intended to be a pastiche of the “most-wanted Iraqi playing cards” developed by US intelligence officials in 2003. Harr has solicited feedback from TikTok users and plans to put the cards out “like ASAP.”
Comrade Workwear’s mission is “to create opportunities for education, community development, and organizing towards liberation.” According to Harr, the playing cards are meant to educate people about the companies and leaders that profit from workers’ suffering and to foster a sense of solidarity.
In a statement to FOX Business, Harr said that the playing cards are intended to “help us bond over our class position as workers” and to acknowledge the daily violence suffered by the working class due to CEO decisions. He has faced criticism for his handling of the situation, particularly his initial reaction to Thompson’s death.