Why ‘Peanut’ The Squirrel’s ‘Euthanasia’ by NY Officials Is A Hot Topic Amid US Elections?

Peanut, a beloved social media star and “parkour expert” squirrel, captured hearts with over 600,000 followers online, often seen cooking waffles or wearing a mini cowboy hat alongside his caretaker, Mark Longo. Their lighthearted, entertaining videos fostered a strong bond with fans. However, on October 30, Peanut and another animal companion, Fred, were seized by New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) officers from the Longo home near Pine City, Pennsylvania, following complaints about “the potentially unsafe housing of wildlife that could carry rabies and the illegal keeping of wildlife as pets,” according to DEC’s statement to the Associated Press.

The next day, Mark shared a heartbreaking update on Peanut’s Instagram, revealing the “euthanasia” of both critters. Adding to the pain, Mark disclosed that the media was informed before P’Nuts Freedom Farm, his wildlife shelter, was officially notified. The Longos had cared for Peanut for seven years, ever since Mark reportedly found him as a baby after his mother was hit by a car. Since then, Peanut had become a cherished part of the family, entertaining followers with his playful antics.

DEC justified the decision by stating that Peanut and Fred were euthanized for rabies testing because they “shared a residence with humans, creating the potential for human exposure to rabies.” However, in a recent post marked #justiceforpeanut, Mark argued, “no one in the United States has ever gotten rabies from a squirrel.” He contended that if the rabies risk was truly a priority, it could lead to concerns over other pets too, writing, “You know what animal could get rabies? Dogs. So what’s next? THIS IS SERIOUS.”

Many online supporters also questioned why the rules for Peanut differed from those for feeding squirrels in public parks, arguing that his presence at the Longos’ was no more dangerous.

In response to Peanut’s death, Mark has launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has garnered $140,000 to support his efforts. Additionally, New York State Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz has announced “Peanut’s Law: Humane Animal Protection Act,” aimed at protecting sanctuary animals.

Political Issue in the U.S. Election Debate

Peanut’s death has unexpectedly become a talking point in the current U.S. election cycle. Congressman Nick Langworthy condemned DEC’s actions as “ridiculously mistaken priorities” in a post on X, while Elon Musk, a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, also weighed in, saying, “Government overreach kidnapped an orphan squirrel and executed him.” Many voters are framing this as an example of government intervention gone too far, a criticism directed at the Democratic leadership, with presidential hopeful Kamala Harris now also facing scrutiny over Peanut’s case.

The tragic end of Peanut has thus sparked a broader conversation on government regulation, pet ownership, and personal rights — a debate likely to continue as the election season heats up.