In early 2026 in the city of Ashland, Virginia, United States a has been established golden retriever, called Wilbur, as ceremonial mayor, in an event called “Pawsitive Politics”.
The gesture, purely symbolic, nevertheless has its own meaning, which must be seen in the American style of provocation and irony, even when it comes to decisions affecting the public sphere. And it is exploited for marketing purposes and to gain consensus.
The real mayor, Steve Trivett, explained that with this decision he intended to send a message to the outside world that he believes the city is welcoming, people- and animal-friendly, tolerant, and united. But this was also an opportunity to wink at the animal rights groups that are very strong and influential in America, to raise funds to maintain the city's shelters, where abandoned dogs are rescued and cared for, and to bring residents closer to the political and administrative spheres.
Finally, Trivett wanted to joke about his choice ("We need a dog too..." he said), but he took a risk. Considering the crisis of the ruling class, even in the United States, might Wilbur, the dog-mayor, prove more capable and capable than Steve, the human-mayor?
Cover photo from www.axios.com, Courtesy of the Town of Ashland
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