Peanut the Squirrel's Death Fuels Election Debate

The death of Peanut the Squirrel, a social media sensation, has become a contentious issue in the US elections, sparking accusations of government overreach by Trump supporters. Peanut was euthanized by New York's Department of Environmental Conservation after allegedly biting an officer during a raid at owner Mark Longo's home, ostensibly for rabies testing. The incident has been used by Republican figures, including Elon Musk, to criticize Democratic leadership, framing it as an example of excessive state power. This narrative has gained traction online, with calls for 'justice for Peanut' proliferating across social media platforms. The controversy has further polarized the political landscape, with references to past incidents of animal euthanasia under Democratic governance being cited as patterns of behavior. The story has become especially symbolic in the final days leading up to the elections, overshadowing more traditional campaign issues.