It was a rare moment of true bi-pawtisanship in the Senate.
Babydog the English bulldog made an appearance at a Senate Energy Committee hearing on Thursday, adding a light-hearted touch that garnered smiles from both sides of the aisle.
The beloved pooch of Sen. Jim Justice (R-W.Va) even had her “testimony” admitted to the Congressional Record “without objection” after the Mountain State Republican held her aloft at the microphone to deliver a unifying message as her proxy.
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“This small scamp has accomplished something that I believe holds great significance for each one of us. For everyone on this committee… and indeed for every individual throughout our city,” stated Justice, as Babydog appeared to nod in agreement by panting into the microphone. Her furrowed brow and stern look on her saggy face emphasized the young senator’s comments.
“I didn’t intend in any way to be hauling a bulldog around. No way on Earth. We never owned a bulldog before. She’s not supposed to like everybody, but she does. And with that being said, how can a message be any better?” he continued.
“She would say just this: If you’re rich or poor, or a kid or an adult, or, God forbid a Republican or a Democrat, she still loves you,” he said on her behalf.
“Thank you, Senator Justice, we will admit Babydog’s testimony into the record without objection,” stated committee chair Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), which prompted laughter from those present.
Babydog, who at five years old has been jokingly dubbed the “101st senator” by Justice, has emerged as an informal mascot around Capitol Hill over the past few weeks. The pup has made appearances at several committee hearings and was even spotted on the Senate floor.
She became famous following her appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention. Her X page, which
documents her adventures across West Virginia
As she accompanies Justice – including a recent trip to a southern area of the state hit hard by floods – has over 10,000 followers.
Justice has characterized Babydog as “a mischievous little thing that resembles a brown watermelon and adores everyone.” As reported by her.
Wikipedia page
She enjoys chicken nuggets from Wendy’s but dislikes celery.