West Virginia’s Republican Governor Jim Justice’s pet dog, Babydog, has become a political sensation after his owner won the Senate campaign, flipping the state red. The Fox News Decision Desk has projected Governor Jim Justice’s victory over the Democrat Party’s nominee, Wheeling mayor Glenn Elliott.
During the Republican National Convention (RNC) in July, the governor and Babydog stole the show, with the crowd chanting “Babydog!” as they entered the stage. Babydog, an English bulldog, quickly became a star, known for his love of Wendy’s nuggets, riding in his dad’s Suburban, and taking naps.
Governor Justice’s victory means that Babydog will be heading to Washington D.C. as his owner defeated Rep. Alex Mooney in the GOP primary and then went on to defeat his Democratic opponent, Elliott. Babydog was a constant presence during the campaign, joining his owner at events and meet-and-greets.
Although Babydog gained national recognition during the RNC, he has been a part of West Virginia’s political landscape for some time. In 2022, Babydog was even featured in a mural under the West Virginia state Capitol alongside figures like Abraham Lincoln and Civil War soldiers.
Governor Justice has used Babydog in his political messaging before, famously holding up the dog’s rear end during his State of the State address in response to comments made by Bette Midler. In 2019, Babydog was part of a COVID-19 campaign encouraging West Virginia residents to get vaccinated.
With Justice’s victory, Republicans will now control both of West Virginia’s Senate seats for the first time in nearly a century. Babydog’s journey from a beloved pet to a political figure highlights the unique and sometimes quirky nature of West Virginia politics.
