DISCLAIMER: This article was first published on August 29, 2024
Opposition is always a target for political candidates, and the 2024 election was no exception. The race was initially set as Biden vs. Trump, but when Biden stepped down late in the race, it shifted to a battle between Vice President Kamala Harris and Trump. Trump announced his running mate, JD Vance, before Harris revealed hers, but once she did, the mudslinging began.
One tactic to humanize the candidates was to show how they connected with American families, especially through their pets. This strategy quickly turned into a heated competition.
JD Vance, already linked to Trump, who was famously uncomfortable around animals and never had a White House pet, became an easy target. Critics highlighted the duo’s apparent disconnect with pet-loving American families.
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In contrast, Harris’ running mate, Governor Tim Walz, took a different approach. He shared heartwarming pictures of his dog, Scout, which were so effective that Vogue named Scout “America’s Dog” and featured him on the cover of Dogue.
Not to be outdone, Vance soon released a video showing him and his dog, Atlas, boarding one of Trump’s planes. However, the video, shot on a smartphone with poor production quality, raised eyebrows. Atlas appeared uneasy, and the way Vance handled the leash made many wonder if he had any experience with dogs at all.
Soon after, an online counterattack targeted Walz. Photos circulated, showing him with two dogs both claimed to be Scout, fueling rumors that Walz was misleading the public. Especially in this tweet from Donald Trump Jr’s wife. Kimberly Guilfoyle.
Wait so Walz is even lying about his dog?
Ruff stuff. https://t.co/cPf5GWkQOO
— Kimberly Guilfoyle (@kimguilfoyle) August 26, 2024
However, a closer look revealed that Walz was simply at a dog park, demonstrating his genuine love for dogs. More importantly, the fact that other dogs clearly adored him only highlighted the contrast between him, Trump, and Vance.
Hunted down from this video from the ‘22 @Tim_Walz and @peggyflanagan campaign.
He does indeed love dogs! https://t.co/PSqVaMCinN pic.twitter.com/8x30WMW4L6
Her trolling backfired!
You’re pretty gullible aren’t you?
— BirdieGirl (@luv2birdie) August 28, 2024
Try again numb nuts, put the whole video up not just what you liars think will help your cult master
— girls watson (@GirlsWatson) August 28, 2024
It was very brave of you to have your brain replaced with a silicone implant.
— Scaryfast (@ScaryFastdotca) August 28, 2024
In the end, Walz’s natural rapport with animals stands in stark contrast to the awkward attempts by his opponents, which speaks volumes about his character.
Featured image via screengrab
