Austin is gearing up for a unique mock election as Gus the cat and Franklin the dog vie for the title of Travis County’s next pet mayor. This playful electoral event, organized by the Austin-area League of Women Voters in conjunction with the Travis County Clerk’s Office, aims to familiarize residents with the voting process ahead of the critical midterm elections.
Debbi Voss, vice president of organization for the League, emphasized the initiative’s goal: “The purpose of holding Paws to the Polls is to demystify the voting process itself, which can be intimidating for those who have never participated before. This is your chance to take that machine for a test drive before the November elections, where we want your voice to be heard.”
Voting began in June, with several opportunities for residents to cast their ballots, including an upcoming event at the George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center this Saturday. At a previous polling event, Austin residents were able to vote for their favorite candidate and engage in a Q&A session with the human representatives of the furry contenders.
The pet mayoral campaign will continue until September, when the results will be announced. Additional voting dates are scheduled for August 13, September 12, and September 22.
Voss noted that, similar to real elections, the candidates present stark contrasts in their platforms. She encouraged voters to make educated choices by reviewing voter guides and learning about each candidate. “Gus tends to be more of a conservative candidate, a law-and-order type who prefers cleanliness and order,” Voss explained. “In contrast, Franklin embodies a more carefree spirit, advocating for freedom and spontaneity.”
Open to anyone aged eight and older, the mock election allows young participants to engage with the voting process. Travis County Clerk Dyana Limon-Mercado stated in a press release, “Providing kids the opportunity to participate in this mock election—from introductions to debates to casting ballots—is a fantastic way to teach them about fulfilling their civic duties.”
During the event, Gus and Franklin’s human stand-ins, Amanda Waxman and Ankur Patankar, respectively, delivered speeches advocating for their furry friends. Franklin, a four-year-old black poodle, called for the development of pet-friendly housing and larger parks. “It feels like there are so many new rules and restrictions on where we can go, and I don’t agree with that,” Franklin expressed through Patankar. “Pets deserve to be treated well, with proper housing and support when needed.”
On the other hand, Gus, a four-year-old gray cat, outlined his plans for his first 100 days in office, which include forming a community cleanup crew and ensuring all strays are off the streets. “I’m running for pet mayor because someone needs to take charge,” Gus stated via Waxman. “I care about clean parks and safe neighborhoods, and I want everyone to enjoy a sunny afternoon without stepping in something unpleasant.”
Both candidates tackled campaign controversies, with Franklin addressing claims of running a “boys club” by affirming his love for all humans. Gus countered allegations of being influenced by Big Amazon after photographs of him in an Amazon box surfaced, clarifying that he enjoys sitting in all boxes and has no ties to the company.
Voter Kristina Jingling, who owns a poodle resembling Franklin, chose to support Gus due to his rescue status. “He came from the streets and built himself up,” she noted. “This event is a fantastic way to promote the midterms, help people practice voting, and encourage them to feel at ease asking questions while using the polls. Plus, it’s just a fun and charming way to engage the community.”
