The answer is 10. The notation 2(3) is acceptable as the product 2 and 3. If the 6 squared were intended to be multiplied by 2 then that product must be written in parentheses.
The way loyalty to Donald Trump almost paid off for Mike Pence would have been hanging by the January 6 insurrectionists. Cartoons shouldn’t be posting drawings of the hanging of a public figure.
I’m impressed. Usually I just read a cartoon and either laugh or don’t laugh. This time, I had to stop and figure it out. Perhaps I’m obsessive, but I had to solve it. Had to, couldn’t stop till I had it. Some good creative solutions too. Gee, a cartoon that engages my mind. Ai yi-yi.
Beginning in 2026. It’s a great idea for a TV series.