In early November 2024, a surge of support for a squirrel named Peanut emerged among Donald Trump’s followers following its euthanization by New York authorities. This incident sparked a viral campaign on social media, linking Peanut’s fate to Vice President Kamala Harris in an effort to rally voters. As emotional narratives unfolded, critics claimed New York misprioritized law enforcement, with some supporters framing Trump as a defender of personal freedoms. Elon Musk amplified this narrative, highlighting the intersection of politics and social media outrage.
The Squirrel Saga: How Peanut Became a Political Symbol
During the weekend of November 2, 2024, a curious phenomenon unfolded among Donald Trump’s supporters: an obsession with squirrels. Social media platforms, particularly X, saw a surge of nearly two million posts centered around “Peanut,” a squirrel euthanized by New York authorities. Many of these posts originated from pro-Trump accounts and various far-right factions, attempting to connect Vice President Kamala Harris to the incident. The underlying message is strikingly clear: support Donald Trump to save the squirrels.
The uproar surrounding Peanut has led political analysts to speculate about the potential influence of this viral moment on the upcoming election, set for November 5. Elon Musk, the owner of X, has been particularly active, sharing a plethora of memes featuring Peanut in an effort to sway undecided voters and encourage those who might abstain from voting to rally behind Trump.
The Heartbreaking Tale of Peanut
What transpired with Peanut the squirrel? A heart-wrenching video, set to melancholic music, has garnered millions of views, showcasing Mark Longo and his beloved pet squirrel. Mark Longo has gained fame on TikTok for documenting his life with Peanut, treating him with the love and care usually reserved for dogs. Their touching bond has resonated with many viewers.
However, the ownership of a pet squirrel is illegal in New York. After discovering Peanut’s existence, the city’s environmental department intervened, leading to the squirrel’s euthanization. This legally justified yet widely condemned decision has sparked outrage, especially since Mark Longo also cared for a raccoon that faced the same fate. Nonetheless, it is Peanut’s story that has truly captivated the nation.
So, what’s the connection between Peanut’s tragic fate and Kamala Harris? The link is tenuous, but Trump supporters have seized upon this narrative to bolster their candidate’s chances in the election. In a climate where every vote counts, tapping into emotional responses can be a potent political strategy.
Critics from Trump’s camp argue that New York, being a Democratic stronghold, misdirects its law enforcement priorities, suggesting they should focus on more pressing issues like immigration rather than pursuing squirrels. They also claim that Kamala Harris’s judicial background poses a threat to personal freedoms, including the right to own a pet squirrel.
Mark Longo has shared his emotional account in various interviews, shedding tears over Peanut’s fate. While he doesn’t explicitly endorse voting for Trump, his story has been co-opted by supporters who view it as evidence of a potentially oppressive government under Harris, capable of infringing on personal liberties, even in the form of pet ownership.
Is Donald Trump genuinely the champion of animal rights, as his followers suggest? Historically, the Republican Party has not been synonymous with animal advocacy, raising questions about the sincerity of this newfound role. Under Trump’s leadership, it’s unlikely that the actions of New York health authorities would have changed, and the billionaire himself has remained silent on the matter.
Elon Musk, leveraging his influence on X, has been quick to amplify the squirrel narrative, often sharing tweets that sensationalize the issue. By doing so, he not only supports Trump’s campaign but also transforms Peanut’s death into a catalyst for his own radicalization, using humor and memes to his advantage.
In today’s social media landscape, the Peanut saga exemplifies the deteriorating nature of political discourse. Genuine debate seems to have vanished, replaced by platforms that amplify outrage and polarized opinions. Trump’s camp has adeptly recognized this shift, leaving little room for Mark Longo’s voice in the ongoing conversation.