'Babydog always makes everyone smile everywhere that she and the Governor go.'
The Republican National Convention is well under way in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with appearances from Donald Trump, JD Vance and other conservative figureheads.
But the surprising star of the show this year isn’t a governor, senator or presidential candidate – it’s a chubby bulldog.
‘Babydog’, the dog of West Virginia Governor Jim Justice, has gone viral online for her relaxed demeanor in the background of his owner’s speech.
Lounging on a black leather armchair, the English Bulldog seemed content in front of an audience of hundreds of politicians.
Babydog’s owner was a major speaker at the convention, and Mr Justice was sure to mention his four-legged friend in his remarks.
He said: ‘Babydog has got a prediction for everybody here. Babydog says that we will retain the House, the majority in the House, we are going to flip the United States Senate and overwhelmingly we are going to elect Donald J Trump and JD Vance in November.’
Babydog is ‘confident’ in her prediction because ‘we’re worth it’, Mr Justice added.
Jim Banks, an Indiana congressman, mentioned Babydog in his remarks, saying: ‘I don’t know about you, but thank God Babydog is a Republican.’
Babydog was born in 2019 and quickly became a fan favourite as she sat in on briefings during Covid-19.
Mr Justice even used the slogan ‘Do It for Babydog’ to encourage West Virginians to enter a vaccination lottery during Covid.
She’s also been featured on a mural at the state capitol.
The New York Times reported that Babydog’s appearance at this year’s RNC was met with ‘an energy generally reserved only for former President Donald J. Trump.’
As she was brought onstage, the crowd chanted, ‘Babydog! Babydog!’
Mr Justice also owns two Boston Terriers – Lucy and Ellie – meaning Babydog has two siblings.
The West Virginia Governor’s website says: ‘Whether it be special appearances on the biggest of stages, like the Governor’s State of the State address, or simply meeting people and shaking paws in her travels, Babydog always makes everyone smile everywhere that she and the Governor go.’
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