As the country had their eyes fixed on the election, there was one small town putting their best paw forward by electing a dog mayor. In fact, Rabbit Hash, Kentucky has never had a human mayor.
In 1998, Boone County was celebrating their 200th birthday and every mayor was asked to mark the occasion. Up until then, the small town of Rabbit Hash hadn’t had a mayor, so they elected an animal.
The town’s ambassador, a border collie named Lady Stone, announced Wilbur Beast, a French bulldog, had won the mayoral seat on election day. Although the 6-month-old pup may be young, his campaign ran a fierce race beating out a golden retriever, pit bull, rooster, and donkey.
The historical society promotes these elections in order to bring the community together and fundraise. Votes come in from all over, but those interested in voting must donate a $1, this year’s total coming to $23,000.
Although the election began as a fun distraction from a heavy political climate, the sixteen candidates took the race very seriously. Beyond promoting themselves on social media, they held rallies, and one even had a live music event.
Wilbur’s campaign was centered around breast cancer awareness and mental health. His duties will include sitting on the front porch of the general store and taking photos.
Wilbur’s pet parent, Amy Noland, fosters cats and kittens and acts as a transport for rescue dogs heading to their forever homes. She has two other rescue dogs in addition to the new dog mayor.
Noland talks about Rabbit Hash, population 500, as having a thriving community of dog lovers. Any candidate interested in running, must live within walking distance of the town.
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