Arabic version: استمرار عُمداء الحيوانات في جذب القلوب عبر أمريكا

In Divide, Colorado, the recent election for mayor saw a dog named Ringo emerge victorious, continuing a quirky tradition of animal leadership in small towns across the United States. Since 2010, Divide has elected various animals to office, including a three-legged dog, a three-legged cat, and a four-legged donkey. Ringo’s win, announced last week, follows a competitive race that also featured a cat named Mango and a sugar glider named Dale.

According to The Guardian, the election raised $20,000 for the Teller County Regional Animal Shelter, where the election administrator, Kathleen Ruyak, works. Ringo will be sworn in on May 8 and will serve for two years, receiving a medal during the ceremony.

Omena, Michigan, has its own animal mayor, a horse named Lucky Dinero, who has held the position since 2024. Lucky won his election by defeating 12 dogs, five cats, and a goat named Sandra. His friendly demeanor has made him a popular figure, although, like Ringo, he lacks real political power.

These animal elections often serve to attract tourism and raise funds for local causes. In Fair Haven, Vermont, for example, elections raise money for playground equipment while teaching children about democracy. Last year, a dog named Duncan won by a single vote, highlighting the community’s engagement in these light-hearted political events.

The phenomenon of animal mayors is not new; it has a rich history in towns like Rabbit Hash, Kentucky, where dogs have been elected since 1998. The tradition reflects a unique aspect of American culture, where the election of animals serves more as a community bonding experience than a serious political endeavor.