Flossi Calls for Equal Rights
There have been instances where dogs have been "elected" to office, often in small towns or as part of ceremonial or humorous campaigns.
1. Mayor Duke (Cormorant, Minnesota)
- Duke, a Great Pyrenees, was "elected" as the mayor of Cormorant, Minnesota, in 2014. His popularity led him to win four consecutive terms, making him a beloved figure in the town. Duke's role was primarily symbolic, and he attended parades and community events and even wore a little mayoral sash.
2. Mayor Max (Idyllwild, California)
- Max, a Golden Retriever, was elected as the "first mayor" of the unincorporated town of Idyllwild, California, in 2012 through a fundraiser by the local animal rescue. Max became a popular figure, and after his passing, another Golden Retriever named Maximus Mighty-Dog Mueller II took over. "Mayor Max" continues to attend events, spread goodwill, and even has a custom truck for "official duties."
3. Pa Kettle (Divide, Colorado)
- Pa Kettle, a Bloodhound, was "elected" mayor of Divide, Colorado 2014. This fun election was a fundraiser for a local animal shelter, and Pa Kettle became the town’s unofficial "mayor." His duties involved spreading joy, representing the community at events, and raising awareness for animal welfare.
4. Bosco Ramos (Sunol, California)
- Bosco, a Black Labrador-Rottweiler mix, was elected "mayor" of Sunol, California, in 1981 and served until he died in 1994. His election was symbolic, representing the town’s sense of humour and resistance to traditional politics. Bosco became a minor celebrity in foreign media as a symbol of American individualism.
5. Murphy the Goat (Fair Haven, Vermont)
- While not a dog, Murphy the Goat was elected "mayor" of Fair Haven, Vermont, in 2019 in a contest to promote community engagement and raise funds for a playground. Following Murphy, Lincoln the Goat won a symbolic mayoral term, showing that many small towns enjoy electing animals for ceremonial roles.